Tiffin Civic Chronicletiffin.cc

History · 1962–1969

1962–1969: a sewer, a water vote and the town's codes

· · All decades and themes

What the archive holds for 1962–1969

Council meetings
139
from May 2, 1962
With minutes
134
127 with motions recorded
With agenda items
0
before 2010 the record is the minutes
Pages in the archive
290
in 142 documents dated in the decade

Thin years (fewer than eight council meetings in the archive): 1962 (7).

The archive's council records begin on May 2, 1962: the earliest council minutes in the archive record a meeting called to order by the mayor, with old business already on the table.[1][2] For May 1962 through December 1969 the archive holds 139 council meetings and about 290 pages of minutes, ordinances, financial statements and letters, and every page was read for this chapter.[2] The record is thin at the start, with seven meetings in 1962, and fullest at the end, with 28 in 1969.[2] Four of the 139 meetings hold no council minutes: one is a clerk's letter and three are monthly financial statements.[2] Some pages are filed under a different meeting date than the one they print, and several meetings survive in two copies that differ in wording and figures; this chapter uses the date a page prints and gives both figures where copies disagree.[2]

Sources
  1. May 2, 1962: The earliest council minutes in the archive record a meeting called to order by Mayor O'Toole. · document 41, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Called to order by Mayor O'Toole. Council members present:” (document 41, p. 1)
  2. The archive's coverage of 1962–1969: the coverage box of that chapter (counted from the archive's meetings and documents).

Counted from the archive's meetings and documents (about coverage).

A small town's council at work

At the meeting of May 2, 1962 the council appointed a town health officer and appointed Glenn Potter, Jr., a councilman, Street Commissioner.[1][2] At the same meeting a lawyer from Iowa City told the council he would accept the position of town attorney.[3] The council also took up speeding on Highway 6, writing to have the town's speed analyzer restandardized before its use, and drainage along the highway, which the mayor was raising with the State Highway Department.[4][5]

Town offices were paid in small sums: in June 1963 the council set the town marshal's pay at $200.00 a month, year around.[6] That is $200.00 as printed (1963) · about $2,200 in 2026 dollars (Derived).[7] Derived The mayor and council were paid by the meeting: the December 1964 bills record $5 a meeting for the mayor and $3 for a councilman, and the December 1967 bills show the same rates.[8][9] A councilman's $3.00 a meeting as printed (1964) is about $33 in 2026 dollars (Derived).[10] Derived The clerk's salary was raised to $250.00 a year in March 1967 and to $600 a year in August 1969, with the water system coming in.[11][12]

In March 1963 the council agreed to join the county civil defense plan, under which towns paid 15 cents a person on the 1960 census.[13][14] Tiffin's payment that June was $46.65, which at 15 cents a person corresponds to 311 people (Derived).[15] Derived In August 1963 the council appointed the town marshal, DeWaine Slade, Civil Defense Director for the Town of Tiffin.[16] In May 1968 the mayor proposed telling the county civil defense agency that the town's limited funds were better spent in other areas.[17]

Sources
  1. May 2, 1962: The council appointed a Tiffin Health Officer. · document 41, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Dr. Philip A. McLaughlin of Coralville was appointed Tiffin Health Officer” (document 41, p. 1)
  2. May 2, 1962: Councilman Glenn Potter, Jr. was appointed Street Commissioner. · document 41, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mr. Glenn Potter, Jr. was appointed Street Commissioner.” (document 41, p. 1)
  3. May 2, 1962: Attorney William Tucker of Iowa City told the council he would accept the position of Town Attorney. · document 41, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Attorney William Tucker of Iowa City notified the Council that he would accept the position as Town Attorney.” (document 41, p. 1)
  4. May 2, 1962: The council took steps on speeding on Highway 6, including writing to have the town's speed analyzer restandardized before its use. · document 41, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Problem of speeding on Highway 6 was discussed, and the following steps were taken: a. Immediate correspondence was sent to the National Recorders Co. in Grinnell for restandardization of speed analyzer in preparation for its use in the near future.” (document 41, p. 2)
  5. May 2, 1962: The mayor corresponded with the State Highway Department about dividing responsibility for drainage problems along Highway 6 within town limits. · document 41, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “an attempt to clarify division of responsibility between the Town and the State Highway Department concerning drainage problems existing along Highway 6 within town limits.” (document 41, p. 2)
  6. June 5, 1963: The council set the town marshal's pay at $200.00 a month, year around, from 1 June 1963, to be re-examined with the 1963 budget. As printed · document 3354, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “that DeWaine Slade be paid $200.00 monthly, year around, retroactive to June 1, 1963.” (document 3354, p. 2)
  7. June 5, 1963: The town marshal's monthly pay of $200.00 as printed in 1963 is about $2,200 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U). · document 3354, p. 2 · meeting
    Derived CPI-U annual average 1963 (30.6) -> September 2026 (336.94); factor 11.0111; app.compensation.cpi.adjust method; rounded to two significant figures; year of the amount = the document's meeting date; from document 3354, p. 2
    The page's words
    “that DeWaine Slade be paid $200.00 monthly, year around, retroactive to June 1, 1963.” (document 3354, p. 2)
  8. December 2, 1964: Council pay was by the meeting: the mayor was paid $105.00 for 21 meetings at $5 and a councilman $66.00 for 22 meetings at $3. As printed · document 3321, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “James O'Toole (21 meetings @ $5) 66.00 . Glenn Potter (22 meetings @ $3)” (document 3321, p. 2)
    “54.00 . Wayne Stratton (18 meet)” (document 3321, p. 2)
    “-105.00 . James O'Toole (21 meetings @ $5)” (document 3321, p. 2)
  9. December 6, 1967: In December 1967 councilmen were paid $3.00 per meeting and the mayor $5.00 per meeting; the clerk's salary was $250.00 and the treasurer's $100.00. As printed · document 3274, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Wayne Stratton 65.00 13 meetings @ 5.00” (document 3274, p. 1)
    “Bill Verry 24.00 8 meetings @ 3.00” (document 3274, p. 1)
    “Marlene Janssen 250.00 Clerks salary” (document 3274, p. 1)
    “Edna Bowman 100.00 Treasurers salary” (document 3274, p. 1)
  10. December 2, 1964: The councilman's pay per meeting of $3.00 as printed in 1964 ($/meeting) is about $33 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U). · document 3321, p. 2 · meeting
    Derived CPI-U annual average 1964 (31.0) -> September 2026 (336.94); factor 10.8690; app.compensation.cpi.adjust method; rounded to two significant figures; year of the amount = the document's meeting date; from document 3321, p. 2
    The page's words
    “James O'Toole (21 meetings @ $5) 66.00 . Glenn Potter (22 meetings @ $3)” (document 3321, p. 2)
  11. March 1, 1967: The council raised the Clerk's and Treasurer's salaries to $250.00 and $100.00 per year respectively, retroactive to 1 January 1967. As printed · document 3286, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “to give the Clerk and Treasurer salary increases to $250.00 and $100.00 per year respectively retroactive to January 1, 1967.” (document 3286, p. 1)
  12. August 14, 1969: The council raised the clerk's salary to $600 a year for the increased work with the water coming in. As printed · document 3241, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Ned Allen made the motion to raise the Clerk's salary to $600 a year.” (document 3241, p. 1)
  13. March 19, 1963: The council agreed to cooperate with the county civil defense plan, under which the county would furnish $4,000 and towns would pay 15 cents per person on the 1960 census. As printed · document 3356, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Johnson County will furnish $4,000.00 and the balance will be raised by cities and towns at the rate of 15 cents per person as of the 1960 census.” (document 3356, p. 2)
    “Wayne moved and Bob seconded the motion that we cooperate with the County Board of Supervisors on their plan” (document 3356, p. 1)
  14. June 5, 1963: Civil defense comes to Tiffin; no warning system yet (history note) · document 3354, p. 1, document 3352, p. 1
    The page's words
    “Warning systems have not been set up yet, but will probably be in conjunction with a volunteer fire department.” (document 3354, p. 1)
    “According to a request from the Civil Defense Chairman of Johnson County, Bill moved and Bob seconded the motion that DeWaine Slade be appointed Civil Defense Director for the Town of Tiffin.” (document 3352, p. 1)
  15. June 5, 1963: At 15 cents per person, the $46.65 civil defense levy paid in June 1963 corresponds to 311 persons, on the 1960 census basis the county letter named (derived, quotient). · document 3354, p. 2 · meeting
    Derived 46.65 / 0.15 = 311.0; the 15 cent rate and the 1960 census basis are from doc 3356 p2; no population figure is printed on any page read, so this is the only population signal in the 1960s pages; from document 3354, p. 2, document 3356, p. 2
    The page's words
    “Civil Defense Agency (15¢ levy per person)” (document 3354, p. 2)
  16. August 7, 1963: The council appointed the town marshal, DeWaine Slade, Civil Defense Director for the Town of Tiffin. · document 3352, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “that DeWaine Slade be appointed Civil Defense Director for the Town of Tiffin.” (document 3352, p. 1)
  17. May 2, 1968: The mayor proposed telling Johnson County Civil Defense that limited funds were more expeditiously spent in other areas. · document 3269, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “we feel that our limited funds are more expeditiously spent in other areas.” (document 3269, p. 2)

The sewer, 1962–1965

The sewer enters the minutes in October 1962, when an engineer from Powers Associates explained a preliminary survey to decide whether the town should build a lagoon-type sewage system.[1] The council retained the firm for a $500 fee, if federal funds were available, and applied to the Housing and Home Finance Agency to cover it.[2][3] That fee is $500 as printed (1962) · about $5,600 in 2026 dollars (Derived).[4] Derived In March 1963 the council accepted the agency's interest-free $500 loan and told the engineers to proceed.[5]

In August 1963 petitions "signed by a majority of the property owners" asked the council to consider a sanitary sewer system at once, and the council directed Powers and Associates to prepare the final plan.[6] Before settling on a lagoon, the council toured a mechanical sewage plant at the Holiday Inn in November 1963, where a 24-hour test had shown 96% removal.[7] The minutes of that visit put a contractor's price for a comparable mechanical plant above the $19,275 projected for the lagoon, including extra pipe and land.[8] The lagoon estimate is $19,275 as printed (1963) · about $210,000 in 2026 dollars (Derived).[9] Derived

Paying for the sewer took much of 1964: in January the town was told that a lot's sewer assessment should not exceed 25% of its actual value.[10] In March one bonding attorney judged the plan not feasible while another bonding firm advised by telephone that it was.[11] In May the council contracted with White-Phillips Company of Davenport to arrange the financing, for a fee of $2,500.[12] Contractors were to be paid in pledge orders stamped "Not paid for want of funds", which the financing firm would cash and later convert into revenue bonds.[13]

Sewer bids were opened on August 5, 1964, and in October the council approved contracts with two firms for the sewage works and the treatment plant.[14][15][16] On November 17, 1964 it passed Ordinance No. 55, effective that day, regulating connections with the new sewer.[17] The ordinance required every residence and business in the drainage area to connect by September 1, 1965, and the permit fee was set at $20.00.[18][19] After that date, a clerk's letter explained in 1965, the ordinance stipulated $250.00 for each house sewer permit.[20] In November 1965 the council accepted the engineers' final estimate and the certificates of completion for the treatment plant and facilities.[21] In June 1966 the clerk was to write everyone not yet connected that the town would prosecute if they did not connect.[22]

By May 1965 the plan to assess lots had given way to rentals: a clerk's letter said the system was "financed entirely by Revenue Bonds, so that there are no assessments", with the cost paid by monthly rentals on each family unit.[23] Ordinance No. 57, passed on October 6, 1965, created a sewer district and set the rental for each dwelling at $6.53 a month for twelve months, then $4.35.[24][25][26] The lower rental is $4.35 as printed (1965) · about $47 in 2026 dollars (Derived).[27] Derived On December 21, 1965 the council adopted Ordinance No. 58, issuing $98,000 in sewer revenue bonds at 4-1/2% interest, the last of them maturing on January 1, 2002.[28] The bonds were payable only from the net earnings of the sewage works, not from taxes.[29] The issue is $98,000 as printed (1965) · about $1,000,000 in 2026 dollars (Derived).[30] Derived

The January 1969 bills include $1000.00 to a bank for a sewer bond due.[31] By June 1969 some households were about two years behind on their sewer rental, and in July the council certified delinquent rentals to the County Auditor for collection.[32][33]

Sources
  1. October 3, 1962: A consultant from Powers Associates explained a preliminary survey to decide whether the town should proceed with a lagoon-type sewage system. · document 40, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mr. Jim Powers, of Powers Associates, was present and explained the preliminary survey which would be used to decide whether or not the town should proceed with a lagoon-type sewage system.” (document 40, p. 1)
  2. October 3, 1962: The council moved to retain Powers Associates for the preliminary survey for a $500 fee, if federal funds were available. As printed · document 40, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “that we retain Powers Associates to conduct the preliminary survey for the fee of $500, if the Federal grants are available.” (document 40, p. 1)
  3. October 3, 1962: The council moved to apply to the Housing and Home Finance Agency for funds covering a $500 preliminary sewer survey. As printed · document 40, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “that the town make application with the Housing and Home Finance Agency for funds to cover the cost of the preliminary survey, to wit, $500.” (document 40, p. 1)
    “This loan, if it is approved, is repayable, without interest, within five years after start of actual construction of a sewer system.” (document 40, p. 1)
  4. October 3, 1962: The preliminary sewer survey cost of $500.00 as printed in 1962 is about $5,600 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U). · document 40, p. 1 · meeting
    Derived CPI-U annual average 1962 (30.2) -> September 2026 (336.94); factor 11.1570; app.compensation.cpi.adjust method; rounded to two significant figures; year of the amount = the document's meeting date; from document 40, p. 1
    The page's words
    “that the town make application with the Housing and Home Finance Agency for funds to cover the cost of the preliminary survey, to wit, $500.” (document 40, p. 1)
  5. March 19, 1963: The council accepted an interest-free $500 loan agreement from the Housing and Home Finance Agency for a preliminary sewage system survey, and told Powers and Associates to proceed. As printed · document 3356, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “the agreement from the Housing and Home Finance Agency advancing the Town of Tiffin an interest-free loan of $500 to conduct a preliminary sewage system survey be accepted.” (document 3356, p. 1)
  6. August 7, 1963: Petitions signed by a majority of property owners asked the council to develop a sanitary sewer system, and the council directed Powers and Associates to prepare the final plan. · document 3352, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Petitions were presented, signed by a majority of the property owners, requesting that the Town Council give immediate consideration to development of a sanitary sewerage system necessary to relieve the town problems of waste disposal.” (document 3352, p. 1)
    “Glenn moved that Powers and Associates, engineering firm who submitted the preliminary plan for a sanitary sewer system in the town, be appointed and directed to proceed immediately with the preparation of the final plan and working drawings.” (document 3352, p. 1)
  7. November 30, 1963: At a special meeting held at the Holiday Inn the council toured a mechanical sewage plant to compare it with the lagoon; a 24-hour test had shown 96% removal. · document 3349, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “They ran a 24-hour test on the plant three weeks ago which showed 96% removal, which exceeded expectations quite a bit.” (document 3349, p. 2)
  8. November 30, 1963: The minutes record the Holiday Inn unit at $13,800, a contractor's price of $28,000 for a comparable plant for the town, and $19,275 for the projected lagoon including pipe and land. As printed · document 3348, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The unit at Holiday Inn cost $13,800. We would have to go a little over 50% larger. A 40,000 gallon tank would handle the town's needs for 20 years or so. The cost as given to Mr. Nicholas by the contractor is $28,000. The cost of the projected lagoon, including extra pipe needed and the cost of land is $19,275.” (document 3348, p. 1)
  9. November 30, 1963: The projected lagoon cost of $19,275.00 as printed in 1963 is about $210,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U). · document 3348, p. 1 · meeting
    Derived CPI-U annual average 1963 (30.6) -> September 2026 (336.94); factor 11.0111; app.compensation.cpi.adjust method; rounded to two significant figures; year of the amount = the document's meeting date; from document 3348, p. 1
    The page's words
    “The unit at Holiday Inn cost $13,800. We would have to go a little over 50% larger. A 40,000 gallon tank would handle the town's needs for 20 years or so. The cost as given to Mr. Nicholas by the contractor is $28,000. The cost of the projected lagoon, including extra pipe needed and the cost of land is $19,275.” (document 3348, p. 1)
  10. January 3, 1964: At a meeting with the attorney and engineers, the town was told the 25% test: sewer assessments should not exceed 25% of a lot's actual value. · document 3346, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The one place where this becomes important is if the assessment is such that the cost of the improvement would exceed 25% of the actual value.” (document 3346, p. 1)
  11. March 16, 1964: The minutes record that one bonding attorney judged the sewer plan not feasible while another bonding firm advised by telephone that it was feasible. · document 3343, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mr. Carpenter gave a cursory examination of the material sent to him and decided it was not feasible. On the basis of the same information, Carlton Bey advised Mr. Powers by telephone that he considered the plan to be feasible.” (document 3343, p. 1)
  12. May 20, 1964: The council authorized a contract with White-Phillips Company of Davenport for sewer financing, a fee of $2,500, revenue bonds to sell for no more than 4-3/4% and general obligation bonds no more than 4%. As printed · document 3336, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “White-Phillips would agree to set up any plan the Council would choose; would furnish exactly the same supervisory services as Carlton Beh; would guarantee that revenue bonds would sell for no more than 4-3/4% and General Obligation Bonds no more than 4%; their fee is $2,500.” (document 3336, p. 1)
    “Glen moved, Ted seconded the motion that the Mayor be authorized to enter into, on behalf of the Council, a contract with the White-Phillips Company. Carried unanimously.” (document 3336, p. 1)
  13. July 17, 1964: Contractors would be paid in pledge orders stamped 'Not paid for want of funds', which the financing firm would cash in Davenport the same day and later convert into revenue bonds. · document 3333, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “They are issued to the contractors in payment; they will be stamped "Not paid for want of funds" by the Town Treasurer before they are given to the contractor.” (document 3333, p. 1)
    “There will be no additional financing cost charged by White-Phillips, according to Mr. Thayer.” (document 3333, p. 1)
  14. August 5, 1964: Four sewage plant bids were opened on 5 August 1964, ranging from $30,897.00 to $50,580.00. As printed · document 3332, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Manchester Construction Co., Masonville, Iowa 30,897.00 Kehe Construction Co., Waverly, Iowa 50,580.00” (document 3332, p. 2)
    “Sammons Construction Co., Keokuk, Iowa 37,843.00” (document 3332, p. 2)
    “M. F. Goerdt Construction Co., Dubuque, Iowa $47,432.89” (document 3332, p. 2)
  15. October 7, 1964: A resolution approved a contract dated 18 August 1964 with Clear Construction Co. of West Des Moines for the sewage works, in the amount of $27,122.00, with a performance bond in like amount. As printed (another page records this differently; both are cited) · document 3325, p. 3 · meeting
    The page's words
    “the contract referred to in the preamble hereof between the Town of Tiffin and Clear Construction Co., dated the 18th day of August, 1964, in the amount of $27,122.00, be and the same is hereby approved.” (document 3325, p. 3)
  16. October 7, 1964: A resolution approved a contract dated 24 August 1964 with Sammons Construction Co. of Keokuk for the sewage treatment plant in the amount of $114,528.80, with a performance bond in like amount. As printed (another page records this differently; both are cited) · document 3326, p. 3 · meeting
    The page's words
    “the contract referred to in the preamble hereof between the Town of Tiffin and Sammons Construction Co., dated the 24th day of August, 1964, in the amount of $114,528.80, be and the same is hereby approved.” (document 3326, p. 3)
    “the contract referred to in the preamble hereof between the Town of Tiffin and Sammons Construction Co., dated the 24th day of August, 1964, in the amount of $114,528.80, be and the same is hereby approved.” (document 3327, p. 3)
  17. November 17, 1964: On 17 November 1964 the council passed Ordinance No. 55 regulating connections with the municipal sanitary sewer system, effective that date, with the three-readings rule dispensed with. · document 3322, p. 2 · meeting · Ord. 55
    The page's words
    “The ordinance shall be effective this date, November 17, 1964.” (document 3322, p. 2)
    “AN ORDINANCE REGULATING CONNECTIONS WITH THE MUNICIPAL SANITARY SEWER SYSTEM” (document 4711, p. 1)
  18. November 17, 1964: Ordinance No. 55 required owners of residences and businesses within the drainage area to connect to the public sewer by 1 September 1965 and set a $20.00 permit fee. · document 4711, p. 2 · Ord. 55
    The page's words
    “Such connections of all existing residences and business establishments shall be completed by September 1, 1965.” (document 4711, p. 2)
    “the person who makes the application shall pay $20.00 to the superintendent or designated representative of the council to cover the cost of issuing the permit” (document 4711, p. 2)
  19. October 7, 1964: The council set the sewer permit fee at $20.00, with a $5.00 discount if paid before 1 November 1964, to pay sewer expenses until rentals could be received. As printed · document 3324, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “It was agreed to set the fee for a Sewer Permit at $20.00, with $5.00 discount if paid before November 1, 1964” (document 3324, p. 1)
  20. May 13, 1965: The letter said the sewer permit was $20.00 at present and, after 1 September 1965, the ordinance stipulated $250.00 for each house sewer permit. As printed · document 3313, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “At the present time, the charge for a Sewer Permit necessary before the house sewer is put in is $20.00. However, after September 1, 1965, the Ordinance stipulates a charge of $250.00 for each house sewer permit.” (document 3313, p. 1)
  21. November 3, 1965: The council accepted by resolution the engineers' final estimate of cost and the certificates of completion of Contract A and Contract B for the sewage treatment plant and facilities. · document 3305, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The Engineers' final estimate of cost and certificates of completion of Contract A and Contract B for the sewage treatment plant and facilities were accepted by resolution attached.” (document 3305, p. 1)
  22. June 1, 1966: The clerk was to write everyone not connected to the sewer that the town would prosecute if they did not connect. · document 3297, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Within the next month the clerk is to send letters to all those not connected to the sewer saying we will prosecute if they do not do so in the immediate future.” (document 3297, p. 1)
  23. May 13, 1965: A clerk's letter stated the sewer system was financed entirely by revenue bonds, so there were no assessments, with the entire cost paid by monthly rentals on a family unit basis. · document 3313, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The system is being financed entirely by Revenue Bonds, so that there are no assessments. The entire cost is being paid by monthly rentals, charged on a family unit basis to each occupied property.” (document 3313, p. 1)
  24. October 6, 1965: On 6 October 1965 the council passed Ordinance No. 57 creating a sewer district and providing for sewer rental. · document 3306, p. 2 · meeting · Ord. 57
    The page's words
    “Whereupon, the Mayor declared said ordinance duly adopted and signed his approval to said ordinance.” (document 3306, p. 2)
    “AN ORDINANCE TO CREATE A SEWER DISTRICT AND PROVIDE FOR SEWER RENTAL, SETTING FORTH RENTAL CHARGES AND THE MANNER IN WHICH THEY SHALL BE COLLECTED, AND PROVIDING PENALTIES THEREOF IN THE TOWN OF TIFFIN, IOWA.” (document 4712, p. 1)
  25. October 6, 1965: Ordinance No. 57 set the sewer rental for each single dwelling unit at $6.53 a month for the first twelve months to September 1966, reduced to $4.35 a month thereafter. As printed · document 4712, p. 1 · Ord. 57
    The page's words
    “The sewer rental charge for each single dwelling unit shall be $6.53 a month for the first twelve-month period to September 1966 and shall be reduced to $4.35 a month thereafter.” (document 4712, p. 1)
    “He had looked at the schedule and said the $4.35 monthly rental would be adequate.” (document 3314, p. 1)
  26. May 5, 1965: A financing firm representative said a $4.35 monthly sewer rental would be adequate. As printed · document 3314, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “He had looked at the schedule and said the $4.35 monthly rental would be adequate.” (document 3314, p. 1)
  27. May 5, 1965: The monthly sewer rental of $4.35 as printed in 1965 ($/month) is about $47 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U). · document 3314, p. 1 · meeting
    Derived CPI-U annual average 1965 (31.5) -> September 2026 (336.94); factor 10.6965; app.compensation.cpi.adjust method; rounded to two significant figures; year of the amount = the document's meeting date; from document 3314, p. 1
    The page's words
    “He had looked at the schedule and said the $4.35 monthly rental would be adequate.” (document 3314, p. 1)
  28. December 21, 1965: On 21 December 1965 the council adopted Ordinance No. 58 issuing $98,000 in Sewer Revenue Bonds, 98 bonds of $1,000 at 4-1/2% interest, dated 1 December 1965, with the last maturing 1 January 2002. As printed · document 4713, p. 3 · Ord. 58
    The page's words
    “There are hereby authorized to be issued Ninety-eight (98) negotiable interest bearing Sewer Revenue Bonds of said Town to the aggregate amount of $98,000” (document 4713, p. 3)
    “Bonds Nos. 94 to 98 $5,000 on January 1, 2002” (document 4713, p. 4)
    “all of which bonds bear interest at the rate of Four and One-half Per Cent (4-1/2%) per annum” (document 4713, p. 3)
    “in the denomination of One Thousand Dollars ($1,000)” (document 4713, p. 3)
  29. December 1, 1965: The notice said the bonds would not be a general obligation of the town nor payable by taxation, only from net earnings of the municipal sewage works. · document 3304, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “These bonds when issued will not constitute a general obligation of said Town nor will they be payable in any manner by taxation.” (document 3304, p. 2)
  30. December 21, 1965: The sewer revenue bond issue of $98,000.00 as printed in 1965 is about $1,000,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U). · document 4713, p. 3
    Derived CPI-U annual average 1965 (31.5) -> September 2026 (336.94); factor 10.6965; app.compensation.cpi.adjust method; rounded to two significant figures; year of the amount = the document's meeting date; from document 4713, p. 3
    The page's words
    “There are hereby authorized to be issued Ninety-eight (98) negotiable interest bearing Sewer Revenue Bonds of said Town to the aggregate amount of $98,000” (document 4713, p. 3)
  31. January 7, 1969: The January 1969 bills include $1000.00 to Central National Bank for a sewer bond due and $877.50, $450.00, $135.00, $112.50 and $22.50 in sewer revenue bond coupons. As printed · document 3257, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Central Nat'l Bank (sewer bond due) 1000.00” (document 3257, p. 2)
    “First Nat'l Bank (sewer revenue coupons) 877.50” (document 3257, p. 2)
    “Davenport Bank & Trust Co. (1 sewer coupon) 22.50” (document 3257, p. 2)
    “Central Nat'l Bank (sewer revenue coupons) 450.00” (document 3257, p. 2)
    “Davenport Bank & Trust Co. (sewer revenue coupons) 135.00” (document 3257, p. 2)
    “Merchants Nat'l Bank (sewer revenue coupons) 112.50” (document 3257, p. 2)
  32. June 2, 1969: The council discussed that some people were about two years behind on sewer rental and that others with vacant houses were not paying. · document 3248, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Some people are about two years behind in their payments. Others have vacant houses and are not paying rental on the sewer.” (document 3248, p. 2)
  33. July 2, 1969: The council moved to certify delinquent sewer rentals to the County Auditor for collection. · document 3245, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Glenn Potter moved and Ned Allen seconded the motion to certify the delinquent sewer rentals to the County Auditor for collection.” (document 3245, p. 2)

What the sewer cost: the records disagree

The records disagree about what the sewer cost, and the pages of the decade do not reconcile their figures.[1][2] A resolution of August 14, 1964 awarded the sewage works contract at $37,432.00 as the best and lowest legal bid, though the bid list of August 5 names no bid from that firm.[3] On September 3 the council accepted a treatment plant bid of $37,843.00 after change orders that lowered it and shelved the pond for the time being; the same resolution prints a lower total estimated cost.[4] In October it approved contracts of $27,122.00 for the sewage works and $114,528.80 for the treatment plant.[5][2] Those are $27,122.00 as printed (1964) · about $290,000 in 2026 dollars, and $114,528.80 as printed (1964) · about $1,200,000 in 2026 dollars (Derived).[6][7] Derived

A year later the bond resolution said the works and plant were built at a cost of approximately $98,000.[1] In June 1966 the mayor asked for a cost analysis of "the $28,000 used to construct the sewer system".[8] In July 1966 the council asked the engineers for a breakdown of $12,703.63, their portion of the construction cost.[9] Two copies of the minutes of March 3, 1965 also disagree: one says the 10% of the contract held in escrow means $3400, and the other prints a different figure.[10]

Sources
  1. December 1, 1965: A resolution set a date for proceedings to issue $98,000 in Sewer Revenue Bonds to fund pledge orders, stating the sewage works and treatment plant were built at a cost of approximately $98,000. As printed (another page records this differently; both are cited) · document 3304, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “this Town did order constructed and did construct a sewage works and facilities and a sewage treatment plant at a cost of approximately $98,000.00” (document 3304, p. 1)
  2. October 7, 1964: A resolution approved a contract dated 24 August 1964 with Sammons Construction Co. of Keokuk for the sewage treatment plant in the amount of $114,528.80, with a performance bond in like amount. As printed (another page records this differently; both are cited) · document 3326, p. 3 · meeting
    The page's words
    “the contract referred to in the preamble hereof between the Town of Tiffin and Sammons Construction Co., dated the 24th day of August, 1964, in the amount of $114,528.80, be and the same is hereby approved.” (document 3326, p. 3)
    “the contract referred to in the preamble hereof between the Town of Tiffin and Sammons Construction Co., dated the 24th day of August, 1964, in the amount of $114,528.80, be and the same is hereby approved.” (document 3327, p. 3)
  3. August 14, 1964: A resolution of 14 August 1964 awarded the sewage works contract to Glenn Construction Co. of West Des Moines at $37,432.00, described as the best and lowest legal bid; the bids opened on 5 August listed a lower figure of $30,897.00 and no Glenn bid. As printed (another page records this differently; both are cited) · document 3331, p. 4 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Glenn Construction Co., 417 Maple St., West Des Moines, Iowa: $37,432.00” (document 3331, p. 4)
    “it is determined that the bid of the following contractor is the best and lowest legal bid received for furnishing materials and constructing said improvements” (document 3331, p. 4)
    “Manchester Construction Co., Masonville, Iowa 30,897.00” (document 3332, p. 2)
    “on the 5th day of August, 1964” (document 3332, p. 1)
  4. September 3, 1964: On 3 September 1964 the council accepted the bid of Sammons Construction Company of Keokuk under an engineering change order, which lowered the bid by changing specifications and shelving the pond for the time being; the resolution printed the bid as $37,843.00 but the total estimated cost as $22,152.90. As printed (another page records this differently; both are cited) · document 3328, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Ammons Construction Co., Keokuk, Iowa $37,843.00” (document 3328, p. 2)
    “a total estimated cost of $22,152.90” (document 3328, p. 2)
    “Sammons was able to lower his bid by making Change Orders in the engineering specifications through consultation with Elmer Wood, through purchase of equipment through Elmer Wood, and by shelving the pond for the time being.” (document 3330, p. 1)
  5. October 7, 1964: A resolution approved a contract dated 18 August 1964 with Clear Construction Co. of West Des Moines for the sewage works, in the amount of $27,122.00, with a performance bond in like amount. As printed (another page records this differently; both are cited) · document 3325, p. 3 · meeting
    The page's words
    “the contract referred to in the preamble hereof between the Town of Tiffin and Clear Construction Co., dated the 18th day of August, 1964, in the amount of $27,122.00, be and the same is hereby approved.” (document 3325, p. 3)
  6. October 7, 1964: The sewage works contract of $27,122.00 as printed in 1964 is about $290,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U). · document 3325, p. 3 · meeting
    Derived CPI-U annual average 1964 (31.0) -> September 2026 (336.94); factor 10.8690; app.compensation.cpi.adjust method; rounded to two significant figures; year of the amount = the document's meeting date; from document 3325, p. 3
    The page's words
    “the contract referred to in the preamble hereof between the Town of Tiffin and Clear Construction Co., dated the 18th day of August, 1964, in the amount of $27,122.00, be and the same is hereby approved.” (document 3325, p. 3)
  7. October 7, 1964: The treatment plant contract of $114,528.80 as printed in 1964 is about $1,200,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U). · document 3326, p. 3 · meeting
    Derived CPI-U annual average 1964 (31.0) -> September 2026 (336.94); factor 10.8690; app.compensation.cpi.adjust method; rounded to two significant figures; year of the amount = the document's meeting date; from document 3326, p. 3
    The page's words
    “the contract referred to in the preamble hereof between the Town of Tiffin and Sammons Construction Co., dated the 24th day of August, 1964, in the amount of $114,528.80, be and the same is hereby approved.” (document 3326, p. 3)
  8. June 1, 1966: The mayor asked the clerk to write White-Phillips for a cost analysis of the $28,000 used to construct the sewer system. As printed (another page records this differently; both are cited) · document 3297, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “get a cost analysis of the $28,000 used to construct the sewer system.” (document 3297, p. 1)
  9. July 6, 1966: The council asked the clerk to write Powers for a breakdown of the $12,703.63 which was their portion of the sewer construction cost and the $906.00 listed as an outstanding balance. As printed · document 3296, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “write to Powers for a breakdown of the $12,703.63 which was their portion of the sewer construction cost, and the $906.00 which they have listed as an outstanding balance.” (document 3296, p. 1)
  10. March 3, 1965: One copy of the 3 March 1965 minutes says 10% of the contractor's contract held in escrow means $3400; another copy of the same meeting says $300. As printed (another page records this differently; both are cited) · document 3316, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “We have 10% of his contract in escrow, which means $3400.” (document 3316, p. 1)
    “We have 10% of his contract in escrow, which means $300.” (document 3317, p. 2)

Codes, zoning and trailers

In December 1962 the council agreed that an ordinance establishing a zoning commission should probably come before the other model codes.[1] On January 9, 1963, at a special meeting, it passed an ordinance restricting certain districts to residential, school, church and similar purposes, dispensing with the three readings.[2] In March 1963 Ordinance No. 53 created a seven-member planning and zoning commission with five-year terms, unpaid except for expenses.[3]

With the sewer under construction in November 1964, the council agreed the town needed a housing ordinance and weighed the Uniform Building Code recommended by the League of Municipalities.[4][5] In January 1965 it passed Ordinance No. 56, setting minimum housing requirements, effective the same day.[6] In January 1968 the mayor said the town should look at its building codes because the town would be growing and the codes in force were "the bare minimum".[7]

Trailers were the recurring test of the codes: in December 1964 the council noted that state rules allowed two trailers to a lot while the housing ordinance could allow only one.[8] In October 1968 it voted that no more trailers be moved into Tiffin until a trailer ordinance was checked into or set up.[9] In February 1969 the council adopted a new ordinance drafted by the town attorney, Ralph Neuzil, and rescinded No. 56; in March it accepted the new one as Ordinance No. 60, the Building and Housing Ordinance.[10][11] The March meeting also adopted Ordinance #61 for mobile home parks and courts, with the third reading waived.[12]

The records disagree on the number 61: the March 1969 minutes adopt Ordinance #61 for mobile home parks, while the July 1969 minutes call the proposed water ordinance Ordinance #61.[12][13] They also leave the 1963 zoning work uncertain: in February 1969 the mayor had the clerk check whether the town had a zoning ordinance, and in March the attorney described the need for one with residential, industrial and business districts.[14][15]

Sources
  1. December 5, 1962: The council discussed that an ordinance establishing a Zoning Commission should probably be the first of the model codes drawn up. · document 3359, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “An ordinance establishing a Zoning Commission should probably be the first one made up, with the wording changed in order to have a little flexibility on the number of members.” (document 3359, p. 1)
  2. January 9, 1963: At a special meeting the council passed an ordinance restricting certain districts to residential, school, church and similar purposes, with the three-reading rule dispensed with. · document 3358, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The Mayor then declared this Ordinance duly passed and adopted on this 9th day of January, 1963.” (document 3358, p. 2)
    “AN ORDINANCE RESTRICTING CERTAIN DISTRICTS TO RESIDENTIAL, SCHOOL, CHURCH AND SIMILAR PURPOSES ONLY; AND PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.” (document 3358, p. 2)
  3. March 19, 1963: Ordinance No. 53 created a seven-member planning and zoning commission with five-year terms and no pay except expenses. · document 4709, p. 1 · Ord. 53
    The page's words
    “There is hereby created a Town planning and zoning commission, composed of seven residents of the town of Tiffin” (document 4709, p. 1)
    “Ordinance No. 53 was passed, establishing a Planning and Zoning Commission.” (document 3356, p. 1)
  4. November 3, 1964: The council agrees the town needs a housing ordinance (history note) · document 3322, p. 2
    The page's words
    “Housing Ordinance: Proposed housing ordinances were discussed, with the agreement that there is a real need for a good one as soon as possible.” (document 3322, p. 2)
  5. November 17, 1964: The League of Municipalities recommends the Uniform Building Code (history note) · document 3322, p. 2, document 3323, p. 1
    The page's words
    “League of Municipalities recommends that uniform building code originated at Pacific Coast conference be adopted. It is a code that is nation-wide and can be adopted in part just like the State Housing Code.” (document 3322, p. 2)
    “It has nothing to do with zoning. It has nothing to do with the structure of the building nor the electrical make-up. In other words, the only thing we have control over now is plumbing. What the Town of Algona did is adopt the uniform building code and left out the things that didn't apply.” (document 3322, p. 2)
  6. January 6, 1965: Ordinance No. 56: Tiffin's first housing ordinance (history note) · document 3319, p. 1, document 3320, p. 1, document 3260, p. 1
    The page's words
    “Ordinance #56, AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR MINIMUM HOUSING REQUIREMENTS AND REGULATIONS FOR THE TOWN OF TIFFIN, IOWA. Bill Verry made the motion to pass this ordinance, effective today.” (document 3319, p. 1)
  7. January 3, 1968: The mayor said the town should look at its building codes because the town would be growing and the codes then in force were the bare minimum. · document 3273, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mayor O'Toole said we should take a good look at out building codes. The town will be growing and the codes we have now are the bare minimum.” (document 3273, p. 1)
  8. December 2, 1964: The council discussed that state rules allowed two trailers to a lot but the housing ordinance could stipulate only one. · document 3321, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “at the current time there can be two trailers to a lot, if we want to stipulate only one trailer to a lot in the ordinance, we can.” (document 3321, p. 1)
  9. October 3, 1968: A councilman moved that no more trailers be moved into Tiffin until the trailer ordinance was checked or set up; all voted in favor. · document 3261, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Dale Flansburg made a motion that no more trailers be moved into Tiffin until the trailer ordinance is checked into or set up.” (document 3261, p. 1)
  10. February 25, 1969: At a special meeting the council adopted a new ordinance written by the attorney and moved that Ordinance #56 be rescinded. · document 3254, p. 1 · meeting · Ord. 56
    The page's words
    “Dale Flansburg moved, Ted Spivey seconded the motion that Ordinance #56 be rescinded. All in favor.” (document 3254, p. 1)
  11. March 5, 1969: Ordinance No. 60 replaces No. 56 as the Building and Housing Ordinance (history note) · document 3255, p. 1, document 3254, p. 1, document 3253, p. 1
    The page's words
    “Ned Allen made a motion we accept Ordinance #60 as the Building and Housing Ordinance for Tiffin.” (document 3253, p. 1)
  12. March 5, 1969: The council adopted Ordinance #61 for mobile home parks and courts with the third reading waived, by an aye vote of all councilmen. · document 3253, p. 1 · meeting · Ord. 61
    The page's words
    “Mr. Neuzil read a new ordinance for mobile home parks, courts, etc. known as Ordinance #61.” (document 3253, p. 1)
    “Ordinance #61 was adopted by an aye vote by all Council members.” (document 3253, p. 1)
  13. July 2, 1969: The minutes of March 1969 adopt Ordinance #61 for mobile home parks, while the minutes of July 1969 call the proposed water ordinance Ordinance #61. (another page records this differently; both are cited) · document 3245, p. 1 · meeting · Ord. 61
    The page's words
    “Mr. Neuzil read the proposed new water ordinance which will be Ordinance #61.” (document 3245, p. 1)
    “Ordinance #61 was adopted by an aye vote by all Council members.” (document 3253, p. 1)
  14. February 25, 1969: The mayor had the clerk check whether the town has a zoning ordinance, although 1963 minutes record an ordinance restricting districts and Ordinance No. 53 creating a planning and zoning commission. (another page records this differently; both are cited) · document 3254, p. 1 · meeting · Ord. 53
    The page's words
    “Mayor Bream will have the Clerk check to see if the town has a zoning ordinance.” (document 3254, p. 1)
    “The Mayor then declared this Ordinance duly passed and adopted on this 9th day of January, 1963.” (document 3358, p. 2)
  15. March 5, 1969: The attorney discussed the need for a zoning ordinance with the town broken down into three districts, residential, industrial and business. · document 3253, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mr. Neuzil discussed the need for a zoning ordinance. The town has to be broken down into three districts--residential, industrial, and business.” (document 3253, p. 1)

Looking for water, 1962–1967

The search for town water is in the minutes from July 1962, when the mayor asked the School Board for permission to drill a town well on the school ball diamond.[1] In October 1964 the council authorized a preliminary water plan by Powers & Associates at a cost not to exceed $1,500.[2] The only bid for a test well, in November 1964, was $600.00, and a well driller offered instead to drill a permanent well at his own risk.[3][4] The test well found water-bearing sand at about 70 feet, but continued pumping kept lowering the level, and in January 1965 the minutes concluded it "will not provide enough water for a town pump".[5][6] Deeper water was no better: an analysis of a deep private well in the area found 800 parts sulphate and a lot of iron.[7]

The estimates rose as the plans firmed up: the mayor cited $65,000 for a water system in March 1965, and in June a tentative figure of $75,000 was to be met with general obligation bonds, revenue bonds and an assessment on each of about 120 users.[8][9] In July 1965 the council sent a brochure on the proposed system to the town's voters, and 20 or 30 townspeople came to a special meeting to hear that, unlike the sewer, not everyone would be required to hook up.[10][11] In April 1966 the town was invited to the fire station to receive a $14,000.00 federal grant for the water plant from its congressman.[12]

The Farmers Home Administration's terms set the pace: 80 users each paying $25.00 when signing, then an election, with a water rate of $4.75 a unit taken from a survey of small towns.[13][14] A petition for a water election in July 1966 had 66 signers but was found not to carry the necessary number of signatures.[15][16] That October the council postponed the election until it had commitments from townspeople and could see how the school situation developed.[17][18] In April 1967, with FHA staff and the engineer present, the council voted to go ahead, after hearing the attorney's advice not to proceed without the minimum number of signers.[19][20]

The ballot of May 9, 1967 asked whether to establish a municipal waterworks at a maximum expenditure of $115,000.00, to be paid "solely out of the net earnings" of the waterworks without any debt to the town.[21] That ceiling is $115,000.00 as printed (1967) · about $1,200,000 in 2026 dollars (Derived).[22] Derived The votes were canvassed on May 17, but the page prints no totals; the 1969 water ordinance says only that the town was authorized by that election.[23][24]

Sources
  1. July 12, 1962: The mayor asked the School Board for permission to drill a town well on the school ball diamond. · document 3362, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The Mayor attended the next meeting of the School Board, and asked for permission to drill on the school ball diamond.” (document 3362, p. 1)
    “It would cost about $100.” (document 3362, p. 1)
  2. October 7, 1964: The council moved to investigate a preliminary plan for a water system, with Powers & Associates as engineers, at a cost not to exceed $1,500. As printed · document 3324, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “that a preliminary plan for a water system be investigated, appointing Powers & Associates as engineers, this cost not to exceed $1,500.” (document 3324, p. 1)
  3. November 9, 1964: At a special meeting the only bid for drilling a test well was $600.00 from J. E. Latta & Sons, Inc. of Riverside, Iowa. As printed · document 3322, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The only bid received on the proposal sent out was from J. E. Latta & Sons, Inc. Riverside, Iowa as follows: Item 1: $240.00, Item 2: $120.00, Item 3: $240.00 for a total of $600.00.” (document 3322, p. 2)
  4. November 9, 1964: D. E. Edwards offers to drill the town's well at his own risk (history note) · document 3322, p. 2, document 3323, p. 1, document 3321, p. 1
    The page's words
    “Mr. Edwards presented an alternate proposal, to drill a permanent well and test for flow himself with the understanding that if said flow was not attained, the Town would not pay him any amount.” (document 3322, p. 2)
    “Glen moved, Bill Bream seconded the motion to award the contract for test well to Latta. Unanimously carried.” (document 3323, p. 1)
  5. December 2, 1964: The test well hit water-bearing sand at about 70 feet; pumping at 50 gallons a minute drew the level down, and at 20 gallons a minute it held at 61 feet. · document 3321, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Geologists hit the vein at about 70 feet (six feet of good sand) and they started pumping at 50 gallons a minute.” (document 3321, p. 1)
    “then they lowered it to 20 gallons a minute and it seemed to maintain a level at 61 feet.” (document 3321, p. 1)
  6. January 6, 1965: The minutes record that continued pumping kept dropping the water level, so the test well would not supply a town pump, though the water was of good quality. · document 3319, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Apparently this will not provide enough water for a town pump.” (document 3319, p. 1)
    “Apparently this well proved that there is an underground barrier to water flow in this area” (document 3319, p. 1)
  7. May 5, 1965: The Geological Survey's analysis of water from a deep private well in the area found 800 parts sulphate and a lot of iron, the same as all over at that depth. · document 3314, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “it is the same as is all over at that depth--800 parts sulphate and a lot of iron.” (document 3314, p. 1)
  8. March 3, 1965: The mayor said an earlier estimate figured $65,000 for a water system on revenue, which would add another $3.00 to what customers paid for sewer and water. As printed · document 3317, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Even figuring $65,000, we were to go entirely on revenue, this would add another $3.00 to what we would be paying, for sewer and water.” (document 3317, p. 2)
    “they were figuring a well up on top and an underground tank.” (document 3317, p. 2)
  9. June 2, 1965: A tentative water system figure of $75,000 was to be financed by $18,000 in general obligation bonds, $45,000 in revenue bonds and a $12,000 balance of roughly $100 assessment each for 120 users. As printed · document 3312, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Tentative figure for a water system is $75,000, which could be financed by $18,000 in General Obligation bonds” (document 3312, p. 1)
    “the $12,000 balance looks like about $100 assessment each for 120 users.” (document 3312, p. 1)
    “issue of $45,000 would be $2.18” (document 3312, p. 1)
  10. July 7, 1965: The council decided a brochure explaining the proposed water system should go to all Tiffin voters with notice of a public meeting on 21 July. · document 3311, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “It was decided that a brochure should be worked up and sent to all Tiffin voters explaining the system proposed and notifying them of a public meeting on July 21.” (document 3311, p. 1)
  11. July 21, 1965: At a special meeting 20 or 30 townspeople heard the engineer explain the water system and were told that, unlike a sewer system, everyone was not required to hook up. · document 3311, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “It was emphasized that, unlike a sewer system, everyone is NOT required to hook up to a water system.” (document 3311, p. 2)
    “Wayne Reed and 20 or 30 townspeople.” (document 3311, p. 2)
  12. April 6, 1966: An FHA representative asked the mayor and council to be at the fire station on 12 April 1966 so Representative Schmidhauser could present the town with a $14,000.00 federal grant for the town water plant. As printed · document 3300, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “so that Representative Scardhauser could present the town with the $14,000.00 Federal Grant to be used for the town water plant.” (document 3300, p. 1)
    “April 12, at 4:30 P.M.” (document 3300, p. 1)

    Transcription: page reads 'Scardhauser'; 1965-10-06 spells 'Schmidhauser'; 'IHA' for FHA

  13. May 3, 1966: The FHA procedure required petitioning 80 users, each making a $25.00 cash contribution when signing, and then a vote at which 50% of townspeople had to approve before bonds were sold. As printed · document 3299, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The first step is to petition 80 users who must make a cash contribution of $25.00 at the time they sign.” (document 3299, p. 1)
    “The issue is then put up to a vote, and if 50% of the townspeople approve, the town proceeds with the sale of bonds and construction.” (document 3299, p. 1)
  14. May 3, 1966: At a special meeting Farmers Home Administration representatives set the water rate at $4.75 per unit, an average from a survey of small towns, with a minimum of 80 guaranteed users needed before the loan could close. As printed · document 3299, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The cost of each unit was set at $4.75 per unit. A survey was taken of small towns based on payments and cost of water and $4.75 was arrived at as an average fee.” (document 3299, p. 1)
    “A minimum of 80 guaranteed backups is necessary before the loan may be closed.” (document 3299, p. 1)

    Transcription: page reads 'backups' where 'hookups' or 'users' is meant

  15. July 6, 1966: A former mayor submitted a petition requesting an election on the water issue, and the clerk recorded 66 signers. · document 3296, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The Clerk records 66 signers.” (document 3296, p. 1)
    “submitted a petition signed by the residents of the town requesting an election on the water issue.” (document 3296, p. 1)
  16. August 3, 1966: The petition of 6 July was found not to carry the necessary number of signatures, the action on it was rescinded, and the council instead moved to publish notices for an election at the regular November election date. · document 3295, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The petition cited in the minutes of the 7-6-66 meeting was found not to carry the necessary number of signatures. The action concerning the petition was rescinded.” (document 3295, p. 1)
    “Instead, Ted Spivey made a motion to make necessary publications notices so we can have the election on the regular November election date.” (document 3295, p. 1)
  17. October 4, 1966: The council postponed the water election date depending on commitments from townspeople and to see how the school situation developed. · document 3291, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “A motion was made by Bill Verry to postpone the water election date depending on direct commitments from the townspeople and to wait to see how the school situation develops.” (document 3291, p. 1)
  18. October 4, 1966: The water vote waits to see what the school does (history note) · document 3291, p. 1
    The page's words
    “A motion was made by Bill Verry to postpone the water election date depending on direct commitments from the townspeople and to wait to see how the school situation develops.” (document 3291, p. 1)
  19. April 5, 1967: With FHA staff and the engineer present, the council voted to go ahead with the water election; the attorney's advice not to proceed without the minimum signers was read. · document 3285, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mr. Scott suggested that we go ahead with the election and have bids for water. Ted Spivey made a motion to go ahead with the election.” (document 3285, p. 1)
    “Mayor Stratton read the statement he received from Mr. Tucker in which he advised the town not to proceed with the water election until we were assured of the minimum signers.” (document 3285, p. 1)
  20. April 5, 1967: The council adopted a resolution calling a special election on waterworks propositions. · document 3285, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Councilman POTTER introduced and caused to be read a resolution entitled "Resolution calling a special election on waterworks propositions,"” (document 3285, p. 2)
  21. May 9, 1967: The ballot for the 9 May 1967 special election asked whether to establish a municipal waterworks at a maximum expenditure of $115,000.00, paid solely out of net earnings without incurring any indebtedness. As printed · document 3283, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “the maximum expenditure for the establishment of such waterworks not to exceed the sum of $115,000.00 to be paid solely out of the net earnings of such municipal waterworks without the incurring of any indebtedness therefor by said Town?” (document 3283, p. 2)
  22. May 9, 1967: The ballot ceiling for the waterworks of $115,000.00 as printed in 1967 is about $1,200,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U). · document 3283, p. 2 · meeting
    Derived CPI-U annual average 1967 (33.4) -> September 2026 (336.94); factor 10.0880; app.compensation.cpi.adjust method; rounded to two significant figures; year of the amount = the document's meeting date; from document 3283, p. 2
    The page's words
    “the maximum expenditure for the establishment of such waterworks not to exceed the sum of $115,000.00 to be paid solely out of the net earnings of such municipal waterworks without the incurring of any indebtedness therefor by said Town?” (document 3283, p. 2)
  23. May 17, 1967: At a special meeting on 17 May 1967 the votes in the election were canvassed and the attorney explained next steps toward the water system; the page prints no vote totals. · document 3282, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The votes to the election were canvassed.” (document 3282, p. 1)
    “Mr. Tucker was present at the meeting and explained the next steps we would have to take toward the water system.” (document 3282, p. 1)
  24. December 1, 1969: The preamble of Ordinance No. 62 states the town was authorized to erect a municipal waterworks pursuant to an election held on 9 May 1967. · document 4715, p. 1 · Ord. 62
    The page's words
    “pursuant to an election held in said Town on May 9, 1967, the Town of Tiffin, in Johnson County, Iowa, has been authorized to erect a municipal waterworks plant and system in and for said Town” (document 4715, p. 1)

Building the water system, 1967–1969

The water tower went on school land: when the price of another site was beyond the budget, the town took a lease on the Clear Creek school district's property.[1] The lease was reported in June 1968 at $50.00 a year, and in July the attorney reported that the FHA had approved it.[2][3] The new school was itself being built in expectation of town water, and the 1969 bid specification required it to be connected by August 28, 1969.[4][5]

Bids opened on September 4, 1968 put the total project cost at $145,752.00.[6] That is $145,752.00 as printed (1968) · about $1,400,000 in 2026 dollars (Derived).[7] Derived The engineer found in the fine print that the election had capped the project at $115,000 and said a new election raising the limit to $150,000 would be needed.[8][9] Within the week the council dropped the planned treatment plant, changed the elevated tank to a standpipe and kept the well and distribution bids.[10] Even so, the engineer said in October that the rate per user would run as high as $7.50 a month without more grant money.[11]

The FHA said 108 users would be the minimum, counting the school and the Lark, and the town then had 87.[12] In November 1968 council members brought in 27 more water user contracts, raising the signed users to 77 single units.[13] The selling points they listed for signers included that "we won't get gas until water is put in" and that construction costs were going up 20 per cent a year.[14]

New bids in March 1969 came to $95,335.76 for the four low bids.[15][16] The records leave the ceiling question open: that month the council planned to have the attorney, the engineer and the FHA interpret the 1967 election to see whether grant money could be excluded from the cost to the town, and no second election appears on any page read.[17] At a special meeting on June 9, 1969 a motion to abandon the water project failed, two councilmen voting aye and three nay, and the council then rejected all bids and readvertised.[18] The re-bids of July 21, 1969 totalled $98,671 for the low bids.[19] On July 24 the council awarded contracts for the wells, the mains, a treatment plant at $38,910.00 and an above-ground storage tank; the pages read do not record the decision to restore the treatment plant dropped in 1968.[20]

In August the engineer reported the well was in and work on the lines about to start, and said "the entire water project should be done by next June".[21] In November he described the new well as 300 feet deep and capable of over 20 gallons a minute, against the 60-foot well then in use.[22] On December 1, 1969 the Farmers Home Administration, the only bidder, bought the town's $108,000 of waterworks revenue bonds.[23] The bonds are $108,000 as printed (1969) · about $990,000 in 2026 dollars (Derived).[24] Derived

Ordinance No. 62 set the water rates: a minimum bill of $6.00 a month for up to 3,000 gallons, with lower rates per thousand gallons above that.[25] The minimum bill is $6.00 as printed (1969) · about $55 in 2026 dollars (Derived).[26] Derived It set a $100.00 connection charge for applications filed after the system began operating.[27] Ordinance No. 63 set the rules of service, with the town maintaining the line from the main to the lot line and the customer from there.[28]

Sources
  1. March 6, 1968: The water tower goes on school property, on a lease (history note) · document 3271, p. 1, document 3269, p. 2, document 3265, p. 1, document 3218, p. 1, document 3215, p. 1
    The page's words
    “OLD BUSINESS: Water: Mayor reported that the price Clyde Woolf asks for the property tentatively located for the water tower is quite a bit beyond what is budgeted, so on the basis of this price, the original proposed site on the school property was arbitrarily decided upon.” (document 3271, p. 1)
    “Three possibilities for acquiring the site from the school were brought out: (1) to dispose of school property, it must be appraised, published in the paper two consecutive weeks, open bids in another two weeks; (2) condemn the land; this would also be time-consuming; (3) obtain a 99 year lease; Mayor will call the Des Moines FHA office to see if they will approve the lease plan, since it would be the fastest.” (document 3269, p. 2)
    “Meardon about it, explaining that the school board felt that the leased site was the best place for the water tower.” (document 3265, p. 1)
    “It was suggested that the Town look into buying the land from the school that we are now leasing.” (document 3218, p. 1)
    “In the agreement with the school on the water lease it states there is to be a fence around the standpipe.” (document 3215, p. 1)
  2. June 5, 1968: The water tower site lease from the school district was reported at $50.00 per year, written first as 75-year lease. As printed · document 3267, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The 75-year lease for tower is at the rate of $50.00 per year.” (document 3267, p. 1)
    “the first sentence to read "The 75-year lease for tower site is at the rate of $50.00 per year."” (document 3266, p. 1)
  3. July 1, 1968: The attorney reported the FHA approved the tower site lease, and the council accepted by a show of hands a resolution on the agreement between the Town of Tiffin and the Clear Creek School District. · document 3266, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mr. Neuzil reported that the lease for the tower site has been approved by the FHH.” (document 3266, p. 1)
    “The description of agreement has been read between the Town of Tiffin and the Clear Creek School District” (document 3266, p. 1)

    Transcription: 'FHH' for FHA

  4. September 19, 1968: The new school is built expecting town water (history note) · document 3262, p. 1, document 3261, p. 1, document 3255, p. 1, document 3249, p. 2, document 3235, p. 2
    The page's words
    “Points to be brought up at this meeting are: (1) School being built with anticipation of municipal water system, (2) Deletion of treatment plant and/or, (3) larger grant, and (4) the system has been cut, trimmed, and redesigned and still comes to much more than the $5.00 per month estimated earlier.” (document 3262, p. 1)
    “The new school is a big potential user.” (document 3261, p. 1)
    “Included in the bid specification will be a requirement that the school be connected to the water system by August 28, 1969.” (document 3255, p. 1)
    “The Clerk will send a letter to Hayes High asking him what the approximate water consumption will be for the new high school and the grade school.” (document 3249, p. 2)
  5. February 22, 1969: The bid specification would require the school to be connected to the water system by 28 August 1969, with bids to open 27 March 1969. · document 3255, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Included in the bid specification will be a requirement that the school be connected to the water system by August 28, 1969.” (document 3255, p. 1)
    “the bid opening be set on March 27, 1969, at 7:30 o'clock p.m. at the Tiffin Fire Station.” (document 3255, p. 1)
  6. September 4, 1968: The engineer analyzed the total water project cost on the bids received at $145,752.00 against a recent estimate of $132,000; the FHA's figure, excluding initial operating costs and an existing well, was $143,682.00. As printed · document 3264, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mr. Reed analyzed the total project cost on the basis of bids received and obtained a total of $145,752.00. He said this compares with our recent total project cost estimate of $132,000.” (document 3264, p. 2)
    “This would bring the estimate based on bid to $143,682.00.” (document 3264, p. 2)
  7. September 4, 1968: The engineer's water project cost of $145,752.00 as printed in 1968 is about $1,400,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U). · document 3264, p. 2 · meeting
    Derived CPI-U annual average 1968 (34.8) -> September 2026 (336.94); factor 9.6822; app.compensation.cpi.adjust method; rounded to two significant figures; year of the amount = the document's meeting date; from document 3264, p. 2
    The page's words
    “Mr. Reed analyzed the total project cost on the basis of bids received and obtained a total of $145,752.00. He said this compares with our recent total project cost estimate of $132,000.” (document 3264, p. 2)
  8. September 4, 1968: The engineer found in the fine print that the bond election specified a total project cost not to exceed $115,000, so a new election to raise the limit to not more than $150,000 was needed. As printed (another page records this differently; both are cited) · document 3264, p. 3 · meeting
    The page's words
    “the bond election which was voted on specified a total project cost not to exceed $115,000. This means that it will be necessary to hold a bond election, placing the amount of the project not to exceed $150,000.” (document 3264, p. 3)
    “the maximum expenditure for the establishment of such waterworks not to exceed the sum of $115,000.00” (document 3283, p. 2)
  9. May 9, 1967: The ballot for the 9 May 1967 special election asked whether to establish a municipal waterworks at a maximum expenditure of $115,000.00, paid solely out of net earnings without incurring any indebtedness. As printed · document 3283, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “the maximum expenditure for the establishment of such waterworks not to exceed the sum of $115,000.00 to be paid solely out of the net earnings of such municipal waterworks without the incurring of any indebtedness therefor by said Town?” (document 3283, p. 2)
  10. September 10, 1968: The council and engineer decided to drop the planned water treatment plant, change the elevated tank to a standpipe, and keep the well and distribution bids. · document 3263, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “the present treatment system plan be dropped, the elevated tank be changed to a standpipe, and the well bids and the distribution system bids be kept.” (document 3263, p. 1)
  11. October 3, 1968: The engineer said the water system might be cut to a $115,000 cost but the rate per user would still be $6.50 to $7.50 without additional grant money. As printed · document 3261, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Maybe cost of water system can be cut down to $115,000 cost, but rate per user would still be at $6.50 to $7.50 without additional grant money.” (document 3261, p. 1)
  12. October 3, 1968: An FHA representative said 108 users would be the minimum, counting the school and the Lark, and Tiffin then had 87. As printed · document 3261, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “108 would be minimum number counting school and the Lark. We now have 87 in Tiffin.” (document 3261, p. 1)
    “F.H.A. likes to have 80 per cent of potential users wanting water.” (document 3261, p. 1)
  13. November 14, 1968: At a special meeting the council brought in 27 more water user contracts, raising signed users to 77 single units, with the school adding 19 and the Lark 5, and the list of potential single-unit users revised to 101. As printed · document 3260, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The Council brought in 27 more water user contracts. This brought up the town's minimum number of users to 77 single units.” (document 3260, p. 2)
    “The list of single unit potential users was revised to 101.” (document 3260, p. 2)
    “The school would have an additional 19 plus an additional 5 for the Lark.” (document 3260, p. 2)
  14. October 3, 1968: The council listed selling points for water signers: a cheaper tap-on fee now, no gas until water is put in, and construction costs rising 20 per cent a year. As printed · document 3261, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Main selling points to attract more signers are: cheaper tap-on fee now, we won't get gas until water is put in, and construction costs are going up 20 per cent a year.” (document 3261, p. 1)
  15. March 27, 1969: At the 27 March 1969 bid opening the engineer found the low bids on each water contract amounted to $95,335.76, about $122,000 with engineering, interest, design and bid letting. As printed · document 3251, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mr. Reed analyzed the low bids on each contract amounted to $95,335.76. This with the basic engineering costs, interest, design, bid letting, etc., come to approximately $122,000.” (document 3251, p. 2)
  16. March 27, 1969: The four low bids on the water system contracts (A $4884.26, B $32,729.50, C $35,762.00, D $21,960.00) sum to $95,335.76, equal to the total the engineer stated. · document 3251, p. 2 · meeting
    Derived 4884.26 + 32729.50 + 35762.00 + 21960.00 = 95335.76 (every addend is a claim); from document 3251, p. 1, document 3251, p. 1, document 3251, p. 1, document 3251, p. 1
    The page's words
    “Mr. Reed analyzed the low bids on each contract amounted to $95,335.76. This with the basic engineering costs, interest, design, bid letting, etc., come to approximately $122,000.” (document 3251, p. 2)
  17. March 27, 1969: The council raised again the bond election that specified a total project cost not to exceed $115,000, and planned to see whether grant money could be excluded from the cost to the town. As printed · document 3251, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mr. Neuzil, Mr. Reed, F.H.A. and maybe a bonding attorney will get together to interp the bond election to see if the grant money can be excluded from the cost to the town.” (document 3251, p. 2)
    “a total project cost not to exceed $115,000” (document 3251, p. 2)
  18. June 9, 1969: At a special meeting the council rejected a motion to abandon the water project, Flansburg and Spivey voting aye and Allen, Moore and Potter nay, then unanimously passed a resolution rejecting all previous bids and readvertising. · document 3247, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Ted Spivey moved and Dale Flansburg seconded the motion to abandon the water project. The vote was Flansburg and Spivey "Aye" and Allen, Moore, and Potter "Nay".” (document 3247, p. 1)
    “Ned Allen moved and Fred Moore seconded the motion to pass a resolution to reject all bids of previous water bidders and to return their certified checks.” (document 3247, p. 1)
  19. July 21, 1969: At the 21 July 1969 re-bid the engineer found the low bids totalled $98,671, which was $3336 more than the $95,335.76 of the March bids. As printed · document 3244, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mr. Reed analyzed the low bids on each contract which was a total of $98,671. This is $3336 more than the last time which was a total of $95,335.76.” (document 3244, p. 1)
  20. July 24, 1969: By roll call the council unanimously adopted a resolution awarding contracts for the municipal waterworks to Latta and Sons (wells, $4842.00), Chalupa Bros. (mains), M.F. Goerdt Construction (treatment plant, $38910.00) and C.L. Carroll Co. (above-ground storage tank, $21,440.00). As printed · document 3243, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Contract C-Treatment Plant- M.F. Goerdt Const. Co.- $38910.00” (document 3243, p. 1)
    “Contract A-Water supply well-Latta and Sons, Inc.- $4842.00” (document 3243, p. 1)
    “Contract D-Above ground storage tank- C.L. Carroll Co.- $21,440.00” (document 3243, p. 1)
    “Glenn Potter introduced and caused to be read a resolution entitled, "Resolution providing for the award of contracts for the construction of a municipal waterworks system."” (document 3243, p. 1)
  21. August 14, 1969: The engineer reported the well was in, the main contractor would start on the lines the following Monday and reach the school by the 22nd, and the entire water project should be done by the next June. · document 3241, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The entire water project should be done by next June.” (document 3241, p. 1)
    “Mr. Reed said Latta has put in a well. Chalupa will start work on the lines Monday and should be up to the school by the 22nd.” (document 3241, p. 1)
  22. November 5, 1969: The engineer said the well then in use was 60 feet, put in a few years earlier, and the new one 300 feet and capable of over 20 gallons a minute. · document 3235, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mr. Reed said the well now in use is 60ft. and was put in a few years ago. The new one is 300ft.” (document 3235, p. 1)
    “It can produce over 20 gal. a minute.” (document 3235, p. 1)
  23. December 1, 1969: At a special meeting on 1 December 1969 the Farmers Home Administration was the only bidder and purchased the $108,000 waterworks revenue bonds, and the council passed resolutions authorizing, awarding and securing them. As printed · document 3233, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “As the representative for the Farmer's Home Administration, Mr. Tometich purchased the bonds. The FHA was the only bidder.” (document 3233, p. 1)
    “as a special meeting to receive bids on $108,000 worth of revenue bonds.” (document 3233, p. 1)
  24. December 1, 1969: The waterworks revenue bond issue of $108,000.00 as printed in 1969 is about $990,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U). · document 3233, p. 1 · meeting
    Derived CPI-U annual average 1969 (36.7) -> September 2026 (336.94); factor 9.1809; app.compensation.cpi.adjust method; rounded to two significant figures; year of the amount = the document's meeting date; from document 3233, p. 1
    The page's words
    “As the representative for the Farmer's Home Administration, Mr. Tometich purchased the bonds. The FHA was the only bidder.” (document 3233, p. 1)
  25. December 1, 1969: Ordinance No. 62 established water rates: a $6.00 minimum monthly bill for the first 3,000 gallons, then $1.00, $.75, $.50 and $.40 per 1,000 gallons in successive blocks. As printed · document 4715, p. 1 · Ord. 62
    The page's words
    “First 3,000 gal. or lesser amount per month $6.00 per month (minimum monthly bill)” (document 4715, p. 1)
    “Next 5,000 gal. $.75 per 1,000 gal.” (document 4715, p. 1)
    “Next 2,000 gal. $1.00 per 1,000 gal.” (document 4715, p. 1)
    “Next 90,000 gal. $.50 per 1,000 gal.” (document 4715, p. 1)
    “All over 100,000 gal. per month $.40 per 1,000 gal.” (document 4715, p. 1)
  26. December 1, 1969: The minimum monthly water bill of $6.00 as printed in 1969 ($/month) is about $55 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U). · document 4715, p. 1
    Derived CPI-U annual average 1969 (36.7) -> September 2026 (336.94); factor 9.1809; app.compensation.cpi.adjust method; rounded to two significant figures; year of the amount = the document's meeting date; from document 4715, p. 1
    The page's words
    “First 3,000 gal. or lesser amount per month $6.00 per month (minimum monthly bill)” (document 4715, p. 1)
  27. December 1, 1969: Ordinance No. 62 set a $100.00 connection charge for applications filed after the water system began operating, a $12.00 deposit from tenants, and a $10.00 charge on reconnecting a cut-off service. As printed · document 4715, p. 2 · Ord. 62
    The page's words
    “All applications filed after the commencement of the operation of the water system shall be accompanied by a fee of $100.00, payable to the Town Clerk of the Town, for the connection charge.” (document 4715, p. 2)
    “A deposit of $12.00 shall be required from all tenants.” (document 4715, p. 2)
    “in addition to the payment of a charge of $10.00” (document 4715, p. 2)
  28. December 1, 1969: Ordinance No. 63 set rules, regulations and conditions of service for the municipal waterworks, including that the town maintains the service from main to lot line and the customer from there, with five feet of minimum earth cover. · document 4716, p. 1 · Ord. 63
    The page's words
    “The minimum earth cover of the customer's service shall be five (5) feet.” (document 4716, p. 1)

The highway, the railroad and gas

In June 1964 the council passed Ordinance No. 54 restricting access to Highway 6, with the same provisions as Ordinance No. 51 already in effect.[1] It set speed limits of 45 miles per hour at each end of town and 25 through the middle, and prohibited parking along the highway within town.[2] Cement company trucks damaged the streets in 1963: in September the council put a temporary embargo on Railroad Street and part of Main Street, and in November it accepted $500 from Central Ready-Mix in complete settlement of the damage.[3][4] The settlement is $500 as printed (1963) · about $5,500 in 2026 dollars (Derived).[5] Derived In April 1969 the council put a 4 or 5 ton load limit on all roads in Tiffin because heavy truck loads were breaking up the streets.[6]

In March 1965 the mayor said the town had kept its streets in good shape on an annual budget of $3,000 and would not go into debt over streets.[7] In June 1966 the council moved to sell $4000.00 of bonds to surface streets, retirable in 10 years or less, and in August it accepted the only bid, from the Iowa State Bank and Trust Company at par with a 4% coupon.[8][9]

In January 1963 the council resolved to ask the railroad to put a signal light at the railroad crossing.[10] After an accident at the crossing in 1965 the mayor wrote to the Attorney General; a crossing signal was estimated at about $10,000.[11] In 1968 residents petitioned for signals, and about 134 had signed by August.[12][13] The county sent the question to the Iowa Commerce Commission, which set its hearing for March 14, 1969 at the Tiffin Fire Station.[14][15] In August 1969 the attorney reported a letter saying signals would be built within nine months, the railroad and the State sharing a cost of around $12,000, with no cost to the town.[16][17]

Natural gas came up alongside the sewer financing: in April 1964 the clerk wrote to Iowa-Illinois about gas service, and in May the bond house suggested a municipal gas system financed by bonds.[18][19] In 1966 the town took up talks with Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric about extending service to Tiffin.[20] In March 1968 the company presented a twenty-five-year gas franchise and said construction would depend on the installation of the water system.[21] The council adopted the franchise as Ordinance No. 59, and the voters approved it 126 to 2 at a special election.[22] The records disagree on its date: the minutes of May 2, 1968 record Ordinance No. 59 adopted, while the ordinance document itself is dated June 17, 1968.[23]

In 1969 the electric company asked to build a substation in Tiffin.[24] In April the council refused a site in the Summerhays addition on Highway 6, saying it would hurt future residential development and the view of the town.[25] In May seventeen property owners petitioned against a site near their land, and in June the council gave tentative approval to a site north of Highway 6.[26][27]

Sources
  1. June 3, 1964: The council passed Ordinance No. 54 restricting access to Highway 6, with the same provisions as Ordinance No. 51 already in effect, as the Highway Commission required. · document 3335, p. 1 · meeting · Ord. 54
    The page's words
    “The Ordinance No. 54 restricting access to Highway 6 was passed, since this contains the same provisions as Ordinance No. 51, already in effect.” (document 3335, p. 1)
    “ORDINANCE NO. 54” (document 4710, p. 1)
  2. June 3, 1964: Ordinance No. 54 set speed limits on Highway 6 of 45 mph at the west end, 25 mph through the middle of town and 45 mph at the east end, and prohibited parking along the highway within town. · document 4710, p. 2 · Ord. 54
    The page's words
    “45 miles per hour from Station 156+88 to Station 160+00 25 miles per hour from Station 160+00 to Station 175+00 45 miles per hour from Station 175+00 to Station 177+70.0” (document 4710, p. 2)
    “Parking of any nature shall be prohibited on this highway from the west corporation line, (Station 156+88.0), to the east corporation line, (Station 177+70.0).” (document 4710, p. 2)
  3. September 4, 1963: The council put a temporary embargo on Railroad Street and part of Main Street after damage by cement company trucks. · document 3351, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Wayne moved that a temporary embargo lasting at least until the next meeting and possibly extending longer on the full length of Railroad Street, and Main Street from Railroad to Second Street, be put in force.” (document 3351, p. 1)
  4. November 6, 1963: The council accepted $500 from Central Ready-Mix in complete settlement of road damages incurred while the cement company was in the town. As printed · document 3349, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mr. Duke offered the sum of $500 in complete settlement of road damages incurred while the cement company was in residence.” (document 3349, p. 1)
  5. November 6, 1963: The cement company road-damage settlement of $500.00 as printed in 1963 is about $5,500 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U). · document 3349, p. 1 · meeting
    Derived CPI-U annual average 1963 (30.6) -> September 2026 (336.94); factor 11.0111; app.compensation.cpi.adjust method; rounded to two significant figures; year of the amount = the document's meeting date; from document 3349, p. 1
    The page's words
    “Mr. Duke offered the sum of $500 in complete settlement of road damages incurred while the cement company was in residence.” (document 3349, p. 1)
  6. April 2, 1969: The council voted to put a 4 or 5 ton load limit on all roads in Tiffin because heavy truck loads were breaking up the streets. · document 3250, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Glenn Potter made a motion to put 4 or 5 ton load limit on all roads in Tiffin.” (document 3250, p. 2)
  7. March 3, 1965: The mayor said the town had kept its streets in good shape on an annual budget of $3,000 and intended to hold to it, and said the town would not go into debt over streets. As printed · document 3316, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “We have carried our streets in pretty good shape on an annual budget of $3,000 a year, and that would be our guideline.” (document 3316, p. 1)
    “We are not going to go into any debt over streets.” (document 3317, p. 2)
  8. June 1, 1966: The council moved to sell $4000.00 worth of bonds to surface streets, retirable in 10 years or less. As printed · document 3297, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Bill Bream made a motion we sell $4000.00 worth of bonds and state in the notice of sale that we may retire them in 10 years or less.” (document 3297, p. 1)
  9. August 12, 1966: On 3 August 1966 the only sealed bid for the $4000.00 public improvement bonds, from the Iowa State Bank and Trust Company at par with a 4% coupon, was opened, and on 12 August the council voted to accept it. As printed · document 3295, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “the bid from the Iowa State Bank and Trust Company for $4000.00 for par with 4% interest coupon was opened and read.” (document 3295, p. 1)
    “The council voted as follows to accept the bid submitted by the Iowa State Bank and Trust Company.” (document 3294, p. 1)
    “The regular meeting of the Tiffin Town Council was called to order on 8-3-66 by Mayor Wayne Stratton.” (document 3295, p. 1)
  10. January 9, 1963: The council made a resolution to get the railroad to put a signal light on the railroad crossing. · document 3358, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Council made a resolution to get the railroad to put a signal light on the railroad crossing.” (document 3358, p. 2)
  11. November 3, 1965: After an accident at the crossing the mayor wrote to the Attorney General; the approximate cost of a crossing signal was $10,000 and signals came out of farm-to-market road funds. As printed · document 3305, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Approximate cost of this crossing signal would be $10,000.” (document 3305, p. 1)
    “the signals have to come out of farm-to-market road funds.” (document 3305, p. 1)
  12. April 3, 1968: Residents petition for signals at the railroad crossing south of town (history note) · document 3270, p. 2, document 3266, p. 1
    The page's words
    “Railroad Crossing Signals: It was suggested that a petition for signals at the railroad crossing should be circulated and submitted to the Board of Supervisors.” (document 3270, p. 2)
    “The following format was suggested: "We, the undersigned residents and voters of Clear Creek Township and the Clear Creek Community School District, petition the Johnson County Board of Supervisors for the erection and maintenance of proper signals at the railroad crossing located on county road leading from Interstate 80 to the Town of Tiffin.” (document 3270, p. 2)
    “Railroad Crossing Petitions: It was suggested that DeWaine be asked to pick up completed petitions in the Oxford area and that all of them be sent to the Board of Supervisors with a cover letter.” (document 3266, p. 1)
  13. August 14, 1968: The railroad crossing petitions had been signed by about 134 citizens by 14 August 1968, and it was decided to hold them and canvass more. · document 3265, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The petitions have so far been signed by about 134 citizens, and it was decided to hold them and do some more canvassing.” (document 3265, p. 2)
  14. November 6, 1968: The county sends the crossing to the Iowa Commerce Commission (history note) · document 3260, p. 1, document 3259, p. 1
    The page's words
    “The board said this comes under jurisdiction of the Commerce Commission.” (document 3260, p. 1)
    “Ned Allen made a motion that the town attorney be authorized to fill out forms for installation of signals on railroad track.” (document 3260, p. 1)
    “Ned Allen will get number of buses crossing track during school year.” (document 3260, p. 1)
    “Neuzil read petition that the town is sending to the Iowa State Commerce Commission to request a hearing regarding signals at the Railroad Crossing at the south edge of Tiffin.” (document 3259, p. 1)
  15. February 5, 1969: A letter from the Iowa Commerce Commission set the hearing on the town's application for automatic crossing signal protection for 14 March 1969 at the Tiffin Fire Station. · document 3256, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The hearing is set for March 14, 1969 with all interested parties invited.” (document 3256, p. 1)
  16. August 6, 1969: The attorney received a letter saying signals would be built within nine months, the railroad and the State sharing the cost, estimated at around $12,000, with no cost to the town. As printed · document 3242, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The railroad and the State will share the costs which is estimated to be around $12,000. The Town will not have to pay any of the costs.” (document 3242, p. 1)
  17. August 6, 1969: Signals ordered, with the railroad and the State sharing about $12,000 (history note) · document 3242, p. 1, document 3226, p. 1
    The page's words
    “Neuzil has received a letter saying signals at the crossing will be constructed within the next nine months.” (document 3242, p. 1)
    “The railroad and the State will share the costs which is estimated to be around $12,000.” (document 3242, p. 1)
    “Railroad- Mayor Bream talked to the superintendent of Crossings and he said Tiffin is next on the list.” (document 3226, p. 1)
  18. April 1, 1964: The town asks about natural gas service (history note) · document 3341, p. 1
    The page's words
    “Natural Gas. The Clerk was directed to write to Bill Owens, Investigating Officer, Iowa-Illinois Light & Power, Iowa City, to have him check on the availability of gas service to Tiffin.” (document 3341, p. 1)
  19. May 20, 1964: A citywide municipal gas system is proposed (history note) · document 3336, p. 1, document 3314, p. 1
    The page's words
    “Mr. Thayer suggested that the Town seriously consider putting in a municipal gas system. The engineer could make an estimate. Municipal gas bonds are really money-makers. They are usually paid off in ten years and then they pour money into the town.” (document 3336, p. 1)
    “Municipal Gas Plants. In the course of the discussion at White-Phillips, they found on the 1965 gas map of Iowa that the prime gas line closest to Tiffin is just south of Wellman. Wellman is getting a municipal gas system” (document 3314, p. 1)
  20. October 4, 1966: Talks with Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric (history note) · document 3291, p. 1, document 3289, p. 1, document 3279, p. 1
    The page's words
    “It will be piped from the Coralville line at a cost of $85,000 to 90,000.” (document 3289, p. 1)
  21. March 6, 1968: Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric Company presented a twenty-five-year gas franchise for first reading and said construction would depend on the installation of the water system. · document 3271, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “They stated that the start of construction of this system would depend upon the installation of the water system.” (document 3271, p. 1)
    “the council would hold its next meeting for consideration of the second reading of this ordinance on April 3” (document 3271, p. 2)
  22. May 2, 1968: Ordinance No. 59: the gas franchise, approved by the voters 126 to 2 (history note) · document 3271, p. 1, document 3270, p. 1, document 3269, p. 1, document 3268, p. 2, document 4714, p. 1
    The page's words
    “Shall the Town of Tiffin, Iowa, grant a gas franchise to Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric Company, its successors and assigns, in accordance with Ordinance No. 59, passed by the Town Council of said Town on the 2nd day of May 1968” (document 3268, p. 2)
  23. May 2, 1968: The minutes of 2 May 1968 record the gas franchise ordinance adopted as Ordinance No. 59 and a special election set for 11 June 1968; the ordinance document itself is dated 17 June 1968. (another page records this differently; both are cited) · document 3269, p. 1 · meeting · Ord. 59
    The page's words
    “Councilman Potter then moved that said ordinance as read be adopted as Ordinance No. 59” (document 3269, p. 1)
    “PASSED AND APPROVED this 17 day of JUNE 1968.” (document 4714, p. 5)
    “the Special Election held in said town on the 11th day of June 1968” (document 3268, p. 2)
  24. February 19, 1969: The council discussed Iowa Electric Light & Power's request to build a sub-station in Tiffin and asked for a representative at the March meeting. · document 3256, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The request of Iowa Electric Light & Power to build a sub-station in Tiffin was discussed.” (document 3256, p. 2)
  25. April 2, 1969: The council moved that the town not let the light company locate a sub-station in the Summerhays addition on Highway 6 because it would hurt future residential development and the view of the town. · document 3250, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Dale Flansburg made a motion that the Town not let the Light Company locate a sub-station there because it would hurt future residential development there and it would ruin the view of the Town.” (document 3250, p. 2)
    “along Highway #6 in the Summerhays addition” (document 3250, p. 2)
  26. May 7, 1969: A petition signed by seventeen property owners opposed the sub-station near their land; the minutes note a town ordinance requiring written consent of adjoining owners for any building other than a dwelling. · document 3249, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “It was pointed out there is a town ordinance stating that in order to build a building other than a dwelling they must have the written consent of the adjoining property owners.” (document 3249, p. 1)
  27. June 2, 1969: The council gave the light company tentative approval to locate a sub-station north of Highway 6 and told it to circulate its petition to residents within 300 feet. · document 3248, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “give the Iowa Electric Light and Power Co. tentative approval to locate a sub-station at the site north of Highway 6 at the area located on the proposed map” (document 3248, p. 1)
    “within 300 feet of the site for any objectors.” (document 3248, p. 1)

The school and the town's edges

Meeting as the Board of Health in January 1964, the council took up a recurring furnace hazard at the Tiffin School and was advised it was empowered to close the school.[1] A new oil furnace was estimated at about $1,500, and the board resolved to review progress in thirty days.[2] In 1966 the mayor told the school board that town water would cost the school a little over $100.00 a month.[3]

By January 1968 a new high school was planned next to the town, and the council discussed obtaining land to extend Third Street as its entrance.[4][5] In June 1968 the council had the attorney tell the landowner that the town would have to condemn if there was no agreement.[6] In July 1969 it bought a 60 by 186 foot lot for the extension for $1650, and paid the balance of $1485 in October.[7][8] The lot is $1,650 as printed (1969) · about $15,000 in 2026 dollars (Derived).[9] Derived In November 1969 the mayor read a letter from the Clear Creek School thanking the town for the new street.[10]

The town also grew at its edges on landowners' requests: in February 1965 the council annexed land described on a landowner's written request, and in April 1966 three parcels of 80, 60 and about 60 acres on a trustee's request.[11][12] The reasons the council gave included its zoning influence within a mile of town and a planned power line that would bar buildings within 200 feet of it.[13][14] In December 1965 the mayor said there was talk of Coralville coming to the mile road, and that Tiffin should object on the basis of encroachment.[15]

Sources
  1. January 6, 1964: Meeting as the Board of Health, the council took up a recurring school furnace hazard and was advised it was empowered to close the Tiffin School; the State Fire Marshal inspected on 3 January. · document 3345, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “we were empowered under the Code of Iowa to close the doors on the Tiffin School.” (document 3345, p. 1)
    “The Chairman called the State Fire Marshal and he came down January 3, inspected the school, and at that time nothing had been done.” (document 3345, p. 1)
  2. January 6, 1964: A new oil furnace for the school was estimated at about $1,500; the Board of Health resolved to review progress in thirty days. As printed · document 3345, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “This would probably cost in the vicinity of $1,500.” (document 3345, p. 1)
    “We, as a Board of Health, feel that the School Board is attempting to correct the situation and we will review it in thirty days.” (document 3345, p. 1)
  3. June 1, 1966: The mayor told the school board that town water would cost the school roughly a little over $100.00 per month. As printed · document 3297, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “He told the board if they would be interested in Town Water it would cost them roughly a little over $100.00 per mo.” (document 3297, p. 1)
  4. January 24, 1968: The council discussed obtaining land for an extension of Third Street as a key entrance to the adjoining new high school property. · document 3258, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “This street would be a key entrance to the adjoining new high school property and would provide access for the additional Ingham property.” (document 3258, p. 2)
  5. June 1, 1966: A street for the entrance to the new school (history note) · document 3297, p. 1, document 3235, p. 1
    The page's words
    “The council discussed buying the 60 ft. lot that belongs to Inghams in order to construct a street for an entrance to the new school.” (document 3297, p. 1)
    “Mayor Bream read a letter form the Clear Creek School thanking the Town for the new street to the school.” (document 3235, p. 1)
  6. June 5, 1968: The council directed the attorney to write the landowner again and say the town would have to condemn for the school street extension if there was no agreement. · document 3267, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The Council directed Mr. Neuzil to write to Mr. Ingham again and tell him that we will have to condemn if there is no agreement.” (document 3267, p. 1)
  7. July 24, 1969: The council voted to buy the 60 by 186 foot lot for the Third Street extension toward the new high school for $1650, $165 down and $1485 on or before 15 August 1969. As printed · document 3243, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The lot is described as a 60'x 186' extension of Third Street. The purchase price is $1650. $165 will be paid now and the remaining $1485 will be paid on or before August 15, 1969.” (document 3243, p. 1)
    “Ken Ingham (10% on lot) 165.00” (document 3242, p. 2)
  8. October 1, 1969: The balance of $1485 on the $1650 price of the lot for the Third Street extension was paid to the sellers in October 1969. As printed · document 3238, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “All that is necessary now is to send them a check for $1485, which is the balance of the total price of $1650.00” (document 3238, p. 1)
    “K.W. & Fern D. Ingham (bal. on lot) 1485.00” (document 3238, p. 2)
    “Barker Const. (3rd St. ext.) 1000.00” (document 3238, p. 2)
  9. July 24, 1969: The lot for the Third Street extension at $1,650.00 as printed in 1969 is about $15,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U). · document 3243, p. 1 · meeting
    Derived CPI-U annual average 1969 (36.7) -> September 2026 (336.94); factor 9.1809; app.compensation.cpi.adjust method; rounded to two significant figures; year of the amount = the document's meeting date; from document 3243, p. 1
    The page's words
    “The lot is described as a 60'x 186' extension of Third Street. The purchase price is $1650. $165 will be paid now and the remaining $1485 will be paid on or before August 15, 1969.” (document 3243, p. 1)
  10. November 5, 1969: The mayor read a letter from the Clear Creek School thanking the town for the new street to the school. · document 3235, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mayor Bream read a letter form the Clear Creek School thanking the Town for the new street to the school.” (document 3235, p. 1)
  11. February 3, 1965: On a landowner's written request the council unanimously passed a resolution annexing a described area, about 90 acres south of the road and 92 acres north of it, effective when recorded; about 18 acres of the land was already in town limits. · document 3318, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Ted moved and Bill Verry seconded the resolution that this property be annexed as designated, to be effective on the date when it is recorded. Carried unanimously.” (document 3318, p. 1)
    “About 18 acres of their land is already in the town limits, and there are around 90 acres south of the road and 92 acres north of the road where the farm buildings are.” (document 3318, p. 1)
  12. April 6, 1966: On a trustee's request the council passed a resolution annexing three described parcels in Section 29, T. 80, R. 7W of 80, 60 and approximately 60 acres, effective that date. · document 3300, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “be it resolved that the real estate therein described be annexed to the Town of Tiffin, to be effective this date.” (document 3300, p. 1)
    “--N 1/2, NW 1/4, S. 29, T. 80, R. 7W; 80 acres.” (document 3300, p. 1)
    “--S 1/2, SE 1/4, S. 29, T. 80, R. 7W, except S. 11 acres; 60 acres.” (document 3300, p. 1)
  13. January 6, 1965: The council discussed annexation east of town: that the town has zoning influence within a mile, that annexation on request of two-thirds of owners would be simple, and that agricultural land in town is taxed at two-thirds of the county rate. · document 3319, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “It would lower the taxes on this property, because if agricultural land is inside the town, the agricultural tax is only 2/3 of what it is in the county.” (document 3319, p. 1)
    “Obviously, we have influence within a mile radius on zoning.” (document 3320, p. 1)
  14. February 3, 1965: The minutes give the power line as one reason to annex: a planned north-south line would bar buildings within 200 feet of it and take out about 10 acres of key property. · document 3318, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “no buildings can be erected within 200 feet of this line, so this cancels quite a lot of that key property. It would take out about 10 acres.” (document 3318, p. 1)
  15. December 1, 1965: The mayor said Coralville was talked of annexing to the mile road and that Tiffin should object on the basis of encroachment. · document 3304, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mayor said there has been some talk about Coralville coming to the mile road, and he thinks if they do, the Town of Tiffin should object on the basis of encroachment and not being able to offer facilities.” (document 3304, p. 2)

Mayors and everyday business

At the November 1965 municipal election 102 ballots were cast, and Wayne Stratton received 56 votes for mayor against 30 for James O'Toole.[1] Wayne Stratton had been sworn in as mayor by the Town Clerk on December 30, 1965, when he called the meeting of January 5, 1966 to order.[2] James O'Toole was mayor again on January 3, 1968, when the newly elected council was sworn in and he made the year's appointments.[3] In September 1968 the council accepted the resignations of James O'Toole as mayor and of the town clerk, and appointed Bill Bream mayor.[4] That October Bill Bream, as mayor, appointed Glenn Potter Street Commissioner.[5]

Dutch elm disease runs through the decade: in July 1963 the council resolved that diseased elms be removed within ten days of notice, the town removing them otherwise and adding the cost to property taxes.[6] In 1966 it authorized spraying and trimming the town's elms at a cost not to exceed $500.00, and in 1968 it looked for help paying to remove dead elms along the highway.[7][8]

In July 1963 it accepted an applicant for a Class C liquor licence for the Lark and moved to issue a beer permit to the Tiffin Inn.[9] In December 1966 the mayor ordered a 40 by 100 foot plastic ice-skating pond for the playground.[10] In September 1969 the mayor said HACAP had rented the old Club 88 as a recreation center for teenagers, older people and lower income families.[11] That month a questionnaire on a town contract for trash pickup came back 44 yes and 9 no, but the council decided the town could not legally accept the hauler's offer.[12] At the end of September 1969 the town's financial statement showed total fund balances of $12,781.78.[13]

Sources
  1. November 3, 1965: In the municipal election held the day before the 3 November 1965 meeting, 102 ballots were cast and 9 spoiled; Wayne Stratton received 56 votes for mayor against 30 for James O'Toole. · document 3305, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “102 ballots were cast; 9 ballots spoiled.” (document 3305, p. 1)
    “MAYOR: Wayne Stratton . . 56 votes; James O'Toole . . 30 votes” (document 3305, p. 1)
  2. January 5, 1966: The 5 January 1966 meeting was called to order by Mayor Stratton, sworn in by the Town Clerk on 30 December 1965; the marshal and clerk were reappointed and the councilmen sworn in. · document 3302, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The meeting was called to order by Mayor Stratton, who had been sworn in by the Town Clerk on December 30, 1965.” (document 3302, p. 1)
  3. January 3, 1968: At the 3 January 1968 meeting, with James O'Toole as mayor, the newly elected council was sworn in and the mayor appointed a treasurer, clerk, marshal, Powers and Associates as engineer, a street commissioner and the Iowa State Bank and Trust as depository. · document 3273, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The newly elected council was sworn in by the clerk. Mayor O'Toole appointed the following for the next term of office:” (document 3273, p. 1)
  4. September 4, 1968: The resignations of Mayor O'Toole and Clerk Margie O'Toole were accepted and Bill Bream was appointed mayor, with Dale Flansburg filling his council place. · document 3264, p. 4 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The resignations of Mayor O'Toole and Clerk Margie O'Toole were accepted. Ned moved, Glenn seconded the motion to appoint Bill Bream as mayor and to fill Mr. Bream's place on the council with Dale Flansburg.” (document 3264, p. 4)
    “Gary Bowman was sworn in as Town Clerk, and Bill Bream was sworn in as mayor.” (document 3264, p. 4)
  5. October 3, 1968: Mayor Bream appointed Glenn Potter as the new Street Commissioner. · document 3261, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mayor Bream appointed Glenn Potter as the new Street Commissioner.” (document 3261, p. 2)
  6. July 3, 1963: The council resolved that trees with Dutch Elm Disease be removed within ten days of notification, with town removal and the cost added to property taxes otherwise. · document 3353, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Be it resolved that trees designated as having Dutch Elm Disease be removed from private and town property within a period of ten days from notification, unless appeal is made.” (document 3353, p. 1)
  7. March 22, 1966: The council authorized spraying and trimming the town's elms at a total cost not to exceed $500.00. As printed · document 3301, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The total cost not exceed $500.00.” (document 3301, p. 1)
    “Iowa City Tree Service 446.50 Spray Elm Trees” (document 3301, p. 2)
  8. July 1, 1968: Dead elms along the highway; the town looks for help paying to remove them (history note) · document 3266, p. 1
    The page's words
    “Dead Trees: Along the highway, the utility company will limb them but won't fall them.” (document 3266, p. 1)
    “It was suggested we write the League of Municipalities to see if there are any available funds for the removal of dead elms.” (document 3266, p. 1)
  9. July 3, 1963: The council accepted an applicant for a Class C liquor licence for the Lark, and moved to issue a beer permit to the Tiffin Inn. · document 3353, p. 3 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Liquor permit application for the Lark was discussed.” (document 3353, p. 3)
    “Bill moved to issue a beer permit to Beverly Birtcher, The Tiffin Inn. Bob seconded the motion. Carried.” (document 3353, p. 2)
  10. December 7, 1966: The mayor ordered a 40x100 ft. plastic ice-skating pond for the playground. · document 3289, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Mayor Stratton ordered a 40X100 ft. Plastic ice-skating pond for the play ground.” (document 3289, p. 1)
  11. September 3, 1969: The mayor said HACAP had rented the old Club 88 as a recreation center for teenagers, older people and lower income families, sponsored by State and Federal government. · document 3240, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “HACAP has rented the old Club 88 for use as a recreation center mostly for teen agers, older people and lower income families.” (document 3240, p. 1)
  12. September 3, 1969: Of 80 questionnaires on whether the town should contract with a hauler for everyone's trash, fifty-three were returned, 44 yes and 9 no, and the council decided the town could not legally accept the offer. As printed · document 3240, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “Of the 80 questionnaires sent out asking if the town should contract with Delbert Neese to haul everyone's trash fifty three were returned. 44 yes and 9 no.” (document 3240, p. 1)
    “Ned Allen moved that the Clerk write Mr. Neese telling him the Town cannot legally accept his offer.” (document 3240, p. 1)
  13. September 30, 1969: The town's September 1969 financial statement shows total fund balances of $12,781.78 on 30 September, with a separate sewer fund balance of $8,230.17 and $6,878.21 of it invested. As printed · document 3239, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “TOTALS 11,711.84 1,868.05 798.31 12,781.78” (document 3239, p. 1)
    “Sewer Fund 7,810.21 653.21 233.25 8,230.17” (document 3239, p. 1)
    “Invested 6,878.21” (document 3239, p. 1)

    Transcription: quote is a table row with cell tags stripped

Not in the records

The archive holds no council records before May 2, 1962, although the minutes of that year refer to old business and to the minutes of a previous meeting, so earlier meetings existed.[1] No meeting is recorded for January through April, June, August and September 1962, nor for May 1963, and the August 1, 1962 budget hearing is named in a notice but its minutes are not in the archive.[1]

No page read prints the vote count of the May 9, 1967 water election, or records whether a second election raised the $115,000 ceiling before $108,000 of bonds were sold.[1][2][3] The water tower's completion, its final cost and the date water service began fall after December 1969, outside this chapter's pages.[1] The sewer's cost is never reconciled across its pages, no page prints the acreage of the plant land the town bought, and no page records the council's decision to drop special assessments.[1]

Ordinances 51, 52, 56, 60 and 61 are not filed in the archive as ordinance documents; 56, 60 and 61 are known only from the minutes.[1] Election results are printed only for 1965: the 1963 minutes say the mayor and all councilmen were re-elected, without counts, and no page says how the mayor's office changed hands after the 1967 election.[1][4] No page prints Tiffin's population; the civil defense levy of 1963 is the only signal, at about 311 people on the 1960 census (Derived).[1][5] No cost or opening date for the new Clear Creek school appears in the decade's pages.[1] No proclamation, dedication or festival appears either; Christmas parties with Santa Claus, the ice-skating pond and a picnic table for the park are the nearest the minutes come to ceremony.[1] Several pages carry OCR damage to names and firms, and quotes are kept as transcribed.[1]

Sources
  1. The archive's coverage of 1962–1969: the coverage box of that chapter (counted from the archive's meetings and documents).
  2. May 9, 1967: The ballot for the 9 May 1967 special election asked whether to establish a municipal waterworks at a maximum expenditure of $115,000.00, paid solely out of net earnings without incurring any indebtedness. As printed · document 3283, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “the maximum expenditure for the establishment of such waterworks not to exceed the sum of $115,000.00 to be paid solely out of the net earnings of such municipal waterworks without the incurring of any indebtedness therefor by said Town?” (document 3283, p. 2)
  3. December 1, 1969: At a special meeting on 1 December 1969 the Farmers Home Administration was the only bidder and purchased the $108,000 waterworks revenue bonds, and the council passed resolutions authorizing, awarding and securing them. As printed · document 3233, p. 1 · meeting
    The page's words
    “As the representative for the Farmer's Home Administration, Mr. Tometich purchased the bonds. The FHA was the only bidder.” (document 3233, p. 1)
    “as a special meeting to receive bids on $108,000 worth of revenue bonds.” (document 3233, p. 1)
  4. November 6, 1963: The mayor and all councilmen were re-elected at the 3 November 1963 election. · document 3349, p. 2 · meeting
    The page's words
    “The mayor and all councilmen were re-elected at the election November 3.” (document 3349, p. 2)
  5. June 5, 1963: At 15 cents per person, the $46.65 civil defense levy paid in June 1963 corresponds to 311 persons, on the 1960 census basis the county letter named (derived, quotient). · document 3354, p. 2 · meeting
    Derived 46.65 / 0.15 = 311.0; the 15 cent rate and the 1960 census basis are from doc 3356 p2; no population figure is printed on any page read, so this is the only population signal in the 1960s pages; from document 3354, p. 2, document 3356, p. 2
    The page's words
    “Civil Defense Agency (15¢ levy per person)” (document 3354, p. 2)

Moments

June 5, 1963
Civil defense comes to Tiffin; no warning system yet

In 1963 Johnson County set up a county civil defense agency funded partly by towns at 15 cents a resident, and the council appointed DeWaine Slade as Tiffin's civil defense director. Warning systems "have not been set up yet", the minutes noted, and would probably come with a volunteer fire department.

“Warning systems have not been set up yet, but will probably be in conjunction with a volunteer fire department.” (document 3354, p. 1)
“According to a request from the Civil Defense Chairman of Johnson County, Bill moved and Bob seconded the motion that DeWaine Slade be appointed Civil Defense Director for the Town of Tiffin.” (document 3352, p. 1)

Sources: document 3354, p. 1 (meeting of 1963-06-05); document 3352, p. 1 (meeting of 1963-08-07) · Chapter: 1960s · Theme: Neighbors

April 1, 1964
The town asks about natural gas service

The clerk was directed to write to Iowa-Illinois's investigating officer in Iowa City to check on the availability of gas service to Tiffin (a free survey).

“Natural Gas. The Clerk was directed to write to Bill Owens, Investigating Officer, Iowa-Illinois Light & Power, Iowa City, to have him check on the availability of gas service to Tiffin.” (document 3341, p. 1)

Sources: document 3341, p. 1 (regular meeting of 1964-04-01) · Chapter: 1960s

May 20, 1964
A citywide municipal gas system is proposed

A milestone (Eric): at the special meeting on financing the sewer system, James Thayer of White-Phillips Company, Inc. of Davenport, the bond house, suggested that the town seriously consider putting in a municipal gas system financed by bonds. A year later White-Phillips reported that the nearest prime gas line ran just south of Wellman, which was building a municipal system on revenue bonds at about $10,000 a mile of pipeline. Tiffin did not build one: from 1966 the council turned to Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric Company, which piped gas to Tiffin in 1970 under a 25-year franchise (Ordinance No. 59, approved by the voters on June 11, 1968).

“Mr. Thayer suggested that the Town seriously consider putting in a municipal gas system. The engineer could make an estimate. Municipal gas bonds are really money-makers. They are usually paid off in ten years and then they pour money into the town.” (document 3336, p. 1)
“Municipal Gas Plants. In the course of the discussion at White-Phillips, they found on the 1965 gas map of Iowa that the prime gas line closest to Tiffin is just south of Wellman. Wellman is getting a municipal gas system” (document 3314, p. 1)

Sources: document 3336, p. 1 (Special Council Meeting, May 20, 1964 (present: … Bill Tucker, Wayne Reed, James Thayer)); document 3314, p. 1 (regular meeting of 1965-05-05: Municipal Gas Plants) · People: James Thayer, William Tucker, Wayne Reed · Chapter: 1960s

November 3, 1964
The council agrees the town needs a housing ordinance

With the new sewer system under construction, the council discussed proposed housing ordinances and agreed "there is a real need for a good one as soon as possible". It was the start of Tiffin's building and housing codes.

“Housing Ordinance: Proposed housing ordinances were discussed, with the agreement that there is a real need for a good one as soon as possible.” (document 3322, p. 2)

Sources: document 3322, p. 2 (regular meeting of 1964-11-03 (continued on page 2)) · City Code chapter 155, chapter 156 · Chapter: 1960s · Theme: Ordinances

November 9, 1964 – November 17, 1964
D. E. Edwards offers to drill the town's well at his own risk

Looking for water for a town water system, the council took bids on a test well. The only bid was J. E. Latta & Sons of Riverside: $600 for the test well and sand points. Well driller D. E. Edwards offered instead to drill a permanent well and test it himself, the town to pay nothing unless it produced at least 50 gallons a minute in a 14-day pumping test ($1,500 to $2,500 if it did). On November 17, on the advice of engineer Wayne Reed (a well that could not be tested first would commit the town), the council awarded the test well to Latta. The test well found water at about 70 feet (December 2, 1964).

“Mr. Edwards presented an alternate proposal, to drill a permanent well and test for flow himself with the understanding that if said flow was not attained, the Town would not pay him any amount.” (document 3322, p. 2)
“Glen moved, Bill Bream seconded the motion to award the contract for test well to Latta. Unanimously carried.” (document 3323, p. 1)

Sources: document 3322, p. 2 (Special Council Meeting, November 9, 1964: the Latta bid ($600) and Mr. Edwards' proposal); document 3323, p. 1 (1964-11-17 (continued): Wayne Reed's advice; contract to Latta); document 3321, p. 1 (1964-12-02: "Geologists hit the vein at about 70 feet") · People: D. E. Edwards, Wayne Reed · Chapter: 1960s · Theme: Water

November 17, 1964
The League of Municipalities recommends the Uniform Building Code

Important codification history (Eric, 2026-10-17): at the special meeting of November 17, 1964 the council weighed what code to adopt. The Iowa League of Municipalities recommended "the uniform building code originated at Pacific Coast conference", a nation-wide code a town could adopt in part, like the State Housing Code. This is the original name of the building code in use today. Background, not from the archive: the Uniform Building Code was first published in 1927 by the Pacific Coast Building Officials Conference (later the International Conference of Building Officials); in 2000 it was succeeded by the International Building Code of the International Code Council, whose 2018 edition Chapter 155 of the City Code adopts. Tiffin first passed a housing ordinance (Ordinance No. 56, January 1965) and adopted the Uniform Building Code itself only in 1997 (Ordinance No. 1997-214). The minutes of 1964-11-17 are typed after those of November 3 and 9 in the same document (doc 3322 p2) and run on in doc 3323 p1.

“League of Municipalities recommends that uniform building code originated at Pacific Coast conference be adopted. It is a code that is nation-wide and can be adopted in part just like the State Housing Code.” (document 3322, p. 2)
“It has nothing to do with zoning. It has nothing to do with the structure of the building nor the electrical make-up. In other words, the only thing we have control over now is plumbing. What the Town of Algona did is adopt the uniform building code and left out the things that didn't apply.” (document 3322, p. 2)

Sources: document 3322, p. 2 (Special Council Meeting, November 17, 1964); document 3323, p. 1 (the same discussion, continued ("Zoning has to do with the town …")) · City Code chapter 155, chapter 156 · Chapter: 1960s · Theme: Ordinances

January 6, 1965
Ordinance No. 56: Tiffin's first housing ordinance

Two months later the council passed Ordinance No. 56, "An Ordinance Providing for Minimum Housing Requirements and Regulations for the Town of Tiffin, Iowa", effective the same day (Verry, Potter, Spivey and Stratton voting aye) and waived the three readings. The minutes later call it the "Building Ordinance #56"; it also governed house trailers.

“Ordinance #56, AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR MINIMUM HOUSING REQUIREMENTS AND REGULATIONS FOR THE TOWN OF TIFFIN, IOWA. Bill Verry made the motion to pass this ordinance, effective today.” (document 3319, p. 1)

Sources: document 3319, p. 1 (regular meeting of 1965-01-06); document 3320, p. 1 (another copy of the same minutes); document 3260, p. 1 (1968-11-06: "trailer ordinance as is in Building Ordinance #56") · Ord. 56 · City Code chapter 155, chapter 156 · Chapter: 1960s · Theme: Ordinances

June 1, 1966
A street for the entrance to the new school

With the Clear Creek school district planning a new school beside the town, the council discussed buying the Ingham family's 60-foot lot to build an entrance street. The land question ran into 1968 (condemnation was considered); in November 1969 the school thanked the town for the new street.

“The council discussed buying the 60 ft. lot that belongs to Inghams in order to construct a street for an entrance to the new school.” (document 3297, p. 1)
“Mayor Bream read a letter form the Clear Creek School thanking the Town for the new street to the school.” (document 3235, p. 1)

Sources: document 3297, p. 1 (meeting of 1966-06-01); document 3235, p. 1 (meeting of 1969-11-05) · meeting · meeting · Chapter: 1960s · Themes: Schools, Streets

October 4, 1966 – August 2, 1967
Talks with Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric

Mayor Wayne Stratton had the clerk ask Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric about extending service to Tiffin. In December 1966 Glenn Potter reported that the company would survey the number of gas users; the gas would be piped from the Coralville line at a cost of $85,000 to $90,000. In August 1967 the company was interested but could not do it that year.

“It will be piped from the Coralville line at a cost of $85,000 to 90,000.” (document 3289, p. 1)

Sources: document 3291, p. 1 (1966-10-04: the clerk to write the Iowa Illinois Gas and Electric company); document 3289, p. 1 (1966-12-07: Glenn Potter's report); document 3279, p. 1 (1967-08-02: "the Gas Company was interested but couldn't get it done this year") · People: Glenn R. Potter, Wayne Stratton · Chapter: 1960s

October 4, 1966
The water vote waits to see what the school does

The council postponed the date of the election on a town water system until it had commitments from residents and could "see how the school situation develops". In 1967 it asked the school board to hear the engineer (Wayne Reed) explain the water system.

“A motion was made by Bill Verry to postpone the water election date depending on direct commitments from the townspeople and to wait to see how the school situation develops.” (document 3291, p. 1)

Sources: document 3291, p. 1 (meeting of 1966-10-04) · meeting · Chapter: 1960s · Themes: Schools, Water

March 6, 1968
The water tower goes on school property, on a lease

The price asked for the first site proposed for the water tower was beyond the budget, so the council settled on the site on the school's property. Buying school land would have meant appraisal, publication and bids, or condemnation, so the town looked to a 99-year lease; the school board agreed the site was the best place for the tower, even at the risk of a lawsuit to stop it. The town paid the school for the "lease for tower site" in 1969, and in 1970 the council suggested buying the leased land and noted the lease required a fence around the standpipe.

“OLD BUSINESS: Water: Mayor reported that the price Clyde Woolf asks for the property tentatively located for the water tower is quite a bit beyond what is budgeted, so on the basis of this price, the original proposed site on the school property was arbitrarily decided upon.” (document 3271, p. 1)
“Three possibilities for acquiring the site from the school were brought out: (1) to dispose of school property, it must be appraised, published in the paper two consecutive weeks, open bids in another two weeks; (2) condemn the land; this would also be time-consuming; (3) obtain a 99 year lease; Mayor will call the Des Moines FHA office to see if they will approve the lease plan, since it would be the fastest.” (document 3269, p. 2)
“Meardon about it, explaining that the school board felt that the leased site was the best place for the water tower.” (document 3265, p. 1)
“It was suggested that the Town look into buying the land from the school that we are now leasing.” (document 3218, p. 1)
“In the agreement with the school on the water lease it states there is to be a fence around the standpipe.” (document 3215, p. 1)

Sources: document 3271, p. 1 (meeting of 1968-03-06); document 3269, p. 2 (meeting of 1968-05-02); document 3265, p. 1 (meeting of 1968-07-31); document 3218, p. 1 (meeting of 1970-08-05); document 3215, p. 1 (meeting of 1970-09-02) · meeting · meeting · meeting · meeting · meeting · Chapter: 1960s · Themes: Schools, Water

April 3, 1968
Residents petition for signals at the railroad crossing south of town

The council suggested circulating a petition asking the Johnson County Board of Supervisors for signals at the railroad crossing on the county road from Interstate 80 into Tiffin. Petitions went out in June and were collected as far as the Oxford area in July (Eric, 2026-10-20: the railroad crossing is a biography item).

“Railroad Crossing Signals: It was suggested that a petition for signals at the railroad crossing should be circulated and submitted to the Board of Supervisors.” (document 3270, p. 2)
“The following format was suggested: "We, the undersigned residents and voters of Clear Creek Township and the Clear Creek Community School District, petition the Johnson County Board of Supervisors for the erection and maintenance of proper signals at the railroad crossing located on county road leading from Interstate 80 to the Town of Tiffin.” (document 3270, p. 2)
“Railroad Crossing Petitions: It was suggested that DeWaine be asked to pick up completed petitions in the Oxford area and that all of them be sent to the Board of Supervisors with a cover letter.” (document 3266, p. 1)

Sources: document 3270, p. 2 (regular meeting of 1968-04-03); document 3266, p. 1 (meeting of 1968-07-01) · meeting · meeting · Chapter: 1960s · Themes: Neighbors, Streets

May 2, 1968 – June 12, 1968
Ordinance No. 59: the gas franchise, approved by the voters 126 to 2

Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric presented a franchise ordinance (first reading March 6, second April 3, 1968); the council adopted it as Ordinance No. 59 on May 2, 1968, granting the company the right to operate a gas system in Tiffin for twenty-five years, and called a special election. On June 11, 1968 the voters approved the franchise, 126 for and 2 against (129 ballots), and the council declared the ordinance in force on June 12. The company said construction would depend on the new water system.

“Shall the Town of Tiffin, Iowa, grant a gas franchise to Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric Company, its successors and assigns, in accordance with Ordinance No. 59, passed by the Town Council of said Town on the 2nd day of May 1968” (document 3268, p. 2)

Sources: document 3271, p. 1 (1968-03-06: first reading); document 3270, p. 1 (1968-04-03: second reading); document 3269, p. 1 (1968-05-02: third reading, adopted as Ordinance No. 59; special election ordered for June 11); document 3268, p. 2 (canvass of the June 11, 1968 special election: 126 for, 2 against); document 4714, p. 1 (Ordinance No. 59) · Ord. 59 · Chapter: 1960s

July 1, 1968
Dead elms along the highway; the town looks for help paying to remove them

The utility company would trim but not fell the dead trees along the highway, and the council asked the League of Municipalities about funds for removing dead elms. Background, not from the archive: Dutch elm disease was killing elms across Iowa in the 1960s and 1970s; the minutes say "dead elms" and "diseased elm trees" without naming the disease.

“Dead Trees: Along the highway, the utility company will limb them but won't fall them.” (document 3266, p. 1)
“It was suggested we write the League of Municipalities to see if there are any available funds for the removal of dead elms.” (document 3266, p. 1)

Sources: document 3266, p. 1 (meeting of 1968-07-01) · meeting · Chapter: 1960s

September 19, 1968
The new school is built expecting town water

Among the points the council prepared for a meeting on the water system's rising cost (with a larger grant as one option) was that the school was being built in anticipation of a municipal water system; the new school was "a big potential user". The contract for the water system required the school to be connected by August 28, 1969, and the town asked the high school what the new high school and grade school would use. From late 1969 the minutes record monthly "water rental" payments from Clear Creek School.

“Points to be brought up at this meeting are: (1) School being built with anticipation of municipal water system, (2) Deletion of treatment plant and/or, (3) larger grant, and (4) the system has been cut, trimmed, and redesigned and still comes to much more than the $5.00 per month estimated earlier.” (document 3262, p. 1)
“The new school is a big potential user.” (document 3261, p. 1)
“Included in the bid specification will be a requirement that the school be connected to the water system by August 28, 1969.” (document 3255, p. 1)
“The Clerk will send a letter to Hayes High asking him what the approximate water consumption will be for the new high school and the grade school.” (document 3249, p. 2)

Sources: document 3262, p. 1 (meeting of 1968-09-19); document 3261, p. 1 (meeting of 1968-10-03); document 3255, p. 1 (meeting of 1969-02-22); document 3249, p. 2 (meeting of 1969-05-07); document 3235, p. 2 (1969-11-05: Clear Creek School (water rental) 90.00) · meeting · meeting · meeting · meeting · meeting · Chapter: 1960s · Themes: Schools, Water

November 6, 1968
The county sends the crossing to the Iowa Commerce Commission

The Board of Supervisors told the town the crossing came under the Iowa State Commerce Commission. The council had the town attorney (Ralph Neuzil) file for signals, counted the school buses crossing the track, and in December signed a petition asking the Commerce Commission for a hearing on signals "at the south edge of Tiffin".

“The board said this comes under jurisdiction of the Commerce Commission.” (document 3260, p. 1)
“Ned Allen made a motion that the town attorney be authorized to fill out forms for installation of signals on railroad track.” (document 3260, p. 1)
“Ned Allen will get number of buses crossing track during school year.” (document 3260, p. 1)
“Neuzil read petition that the town is sending to the Iowa State Commerce Commission to request a hearing regarding signals at the Railroad Crossing at the south edge of Tiffin.” (document 3259, p. 1)

Sources: document 3260, p. 1 (meeting of 1968-11-06); document 3259, p. 1 (meeting of 1968-12-04) · People: Ralph Neuzil · meeting · meeting · Chapter: 1960s · Themes: Neighbors, Streets

February 27, 1969
Hearing and letting for the town's municipal water system

The town published a notice of public hearing and letting on the plans, specifications and contract "for the construction of a municipal water system" (published February 27 and March 6, 1969; the clipping in the archive is mostly covered by an ink blot). A year later the water tank (tower) contractor was due back to finish work (Mayor Bream, March 1970).

“NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS AND PROPOSED FORM OF CONTRACT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A MUNICIPAL WATER SYSTEM FOR THE [illegible]” (document 3252, p. 1)
“Reed and he said the tank contractor will be back this month and Chalupka will come when the temperature will stay above 32.” (document 3226, p. 2)

Sources: document 3252, p. 1 (published notice filed with the 1969-03-27 minutes (manual reading, admin decision 570)); document 3226, p. 2 (regular meeting of 1970-03-04) · meeting · meeting · Chapter: 1960s · Theme: Water

March 5, 1969
Ordinance No. 60 replaces No. 56 as the Building and Housing Ordinance

Attorney Ralph Neuzil drafted a new ordinance when No. 56 proved too weak to keep trailers out. The council adopted the new ordinance and rescinded No. 56 on February 25, 1969, and on March 5 accepted Ordinance No. 60 as "the Building and Housing Ordinance for Tiffin", repealing the old Building Ordinance No. 56.

“Ned Allen made a motion we accept Ordinance #60 as the Building and Housing Ordinance for Tiffin.” (document 3253, p. 1)

Sources: document 3255, p. 1 (1969-02-22: Mr. Neuzil to draw up a trailer ordinance; the old building ordinance No. 56 would have to be repealed); document 3254, p. 1 (1969-02-25: new ordinance adopted, Ordinance #56 rescinded); document 3253, p. 1 (1969-03-05: second reading of Ordinance #60, which repeals Building Ordinance #56; adopted) · Ord. 60, Ord. 56 · City Code chapter 155, chapter 156 · People: Ralph Neuzil · Chapter: 1960s · Theme: Ordinances

March 5, 1969
An outdoor warning system and tornado warnings are raised

The county civil defense agency wrote to the town about an outdoor warning system (1969). In 1973 the clerk was asked to contact the county civil defense director about tornado warnings for the town, and in 1974 Glenn Potter reported on the civil defense warning system.

“Mayor Bream read letter from Johnson County Municipal Civil Defense Agency concerning an outdoor warning system.” (document 3253, p. 1)
“Clerk to contact Wayne Walters, Civil Defense Director about Tornado Warnings for the Town.” (document 4645, p. 1)
“Glenn Potter gave a report on the civil defense warning system.” (document 4630, p. 1)

Sources: document 3253, p. 1 (meeting of 1969-03-05); document 4645, p. 1 (meeting of 1973-05-02); document 4630, p. 1 (meeting of 1974-03-07) · People: Glenn R. Potter · meeting · meeting · meeting · Chapter: 1960s · Theme: Neighbors

March 14, 1969
Commerce Commission hearing on crossing signals at John Saxton Road

The Commerce Commission set a hearing on the town's application for automatic signals where John Saxton Road crosses the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad ("C.R.I.& P.R.R.Co."), held March 14, 1969 at 10 a.m. at the Tiffin Fire Station. The council held a special meeting beforehand to prepare plans and testimony.

“Mayor Bream read a letter received from the Iowa Commerce Commission in regards to the town's application for an automatic highway-railroad grade crossing signal protection at John Saxton Road and C.R.I.& P.R.R.Co.” (document 3256, p. 1)
“Absent: Dale Flansburg Detailed plans and testimony were prepared for the hearing on the railroad crossing to be held March 14 at 10:00 a.m. at the Fire Station.” (document 3253, p. 2)

Sources: document 3256, p. 1 (meeting of 1969-02-05); document 3253, p. 2 (meeting of 1969-03-05) · meeting · meeting · Chapter: 1960s · Themes: Neighbors, Streets

August 6, 1969
Signals ordered, with the railroad and the State sharing about $12,000

The town attorney reported a letter saying signals at the crossing would be built within nine months, the railroad and the State sharing the estimated $12,000 cost. In March 1970 the State's superintendent of crossings told Mayor Bream that "Tiffin is next on the list". The archive does not yet show the day the signals went into service.

“Neuzil has received a letter saying signals at the crossing will be constructed within the next nine months.” (document 3242, p. 1)
“The railroad and the State will share the costs which is estimated to be around $12,000.” (document 3242, p. 1)
“Railroad- Mayor Bream talked to the superintendent of Crossings and he said Tiffin is next on the list.” (document 3226, p. 1)

Sources: document 3242, p. 1 (meeting of 1969-08-06); document 3226, p. 1 (regular meeting of 1970-03-04 (Eric's find)) · People: Ralph Neuzil · meeting · meeting · Chapter: 1960s · Themes: Neighbors, Streets

All 497 dated items of 1962–1969 on the timeline

People of the decade

Mayor
James O'Toole 1962–1968, Wayne Stratton 1965–1967, Bill Bream 1968–1969
Council member
Glenn R. Potter 1962–1969, Robert Svatos 1962–1964, Ted Spivey 1962–1969, Wayne Stratton 1962–1965, William Verry 1962–1968, Bill Bream 1964–1968, Clayton Klein 1966–1967, James O'Toole 1967, Fred Moore 1968–1969, Ned Allen 1968–1969, Dale Flansburg 1968–1969
Mayor Pro-Tem
Bill Bream 1967, Ted Spivey 1968–1969
City Clerk / Clerk-Treasurer
Margie O'Toole 1962–1968, William Verry 1966, Marlene Janssen 1967, Ned Allen 1968, Gary Bowman 1968–1969, Kandy Kobold 1969
Treasurer
Edna Bowman 1968

From the terms of office the minutes record (who served when).

Ordinances and resolutions adopted

9 ordinances and 0 resolutions adopted in the decade, by the instrument register. All ordinances · all resolutions

Projects active

The decade in figures

DateFigureAs printedIn today's dollars DerivedSource
Oct 6, 1965Sewer: monthly charge (flat, minimum or base), inside the city (Ord. 57)$6.53 per monthabout $69.85document 4712, p. 1
Sep 1, 1966Sewer: monthly charge (flat, minimum or base), inside the city (Ord. 57)$4.35 per monthabout $45.24document 4712, p. 1
Dec 1, 1969Water: monthly minimum or base charge, inside the city (Ord. 62)$6.00 per monthabout $55.09document 4715, p. 1
July 12, 1962The council voted to buy a patching roller with a butane heater from Hawkeye Machinery in Cedar Rapids for $295.95, plus a gas tank.$296about $3,302document 3362, p. 1
October 3, 1962The council moved to apply to the Housing and Home Finance Agency for funds covering a $500 preliminary sewer survey.$500about $5,578document 40, p. 1
October 3, 1962The preliminary sewer survey cost of $500.00 as printed in 1962 is about $5,600 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$500Deriveddocument 40, p. 1
October 3, 1962The council moved to retain Powers Associates for the preliminary survey for a $500 fee, if federal funds were available.$500about $5,578document 40, p. 1
October 3, 1962The October 1962 bills include $100.00 paid to well driller Willis E. Miller to drill a test well.$100about $1,116document 40, p. 1
November 7, 1962The bills presented in November 1962 list $300.02 to Hawkeye Machinery for the roller, against the $295.95 motion of July plus an accessory.$300about $3,347document 3361, p. 1
November 7, 1962The November 1962 bills include $16.00 to the State Hygienic Laboratory for analyzing water samples.$16about $179document 3361, p. 1
December 5, 1962The council paid the town marshal, DeWaine Slade, a $50.00 bonus for 1962.$50about $558document 3359, p. 2
March 19, 1963The council agreed to cooperate with the county civil defense plan, under which the county would furnish $4,000 and towns would pay 15 cents per person on the 1960 census.$4,000about $44kdocument 3356, p. 2
March 19, 1963A letter from the county Board of Supervisors set the cities' and towns' civil defense share at 15 cents per person as of the 1960 census, with the county furnishing $4,000.00.0.15 $ per persondocument 3356, p. 2
March 19, 1963The 15 cents per person of the 1963 civil defense levy is about $1.65 in 2026 dollars.0.15 $ per personDeriveddocument 3356, p. 2
March 19, 1963Towns would pay 15 cents per person on the 1960 census toward the county civil defense plan.0.15 $ per persondocument 3356, p. 2
March 19, 1963The council accepted an interest-free $500 loan agreement from the Housing and Home Finance Agency for a preliminary sewage system survey, and told Powers and Associates to proceed.$500about $5,506document 3356, p. 1
June 5, 1963The June 1963 bills include $46.65 to the Civil Defense Agency at a 15 cent per person levy.$47about $514document 3354, p. 2
June 5, 1963At 15 cents per person, the $46.65 civil defense levy paid in June 1963 corresponds to 311 persons, on the 1960 census basis the county letter named (derived, quotient).$47Deriveddocument 3354, p. 2
June 5, 1963The council set the town marshal's pay at $200.00 a month, year around, from 1 June 1963, to be re-examined with the 1963 budget.$200about $2,202document 3354, p. 2
June 5, 1963The town marshal's monthly pay of $200.00 as printed in 1963 is about $2,200 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$200Deriveddocument 3354, p. 2
June 18, 1963At a special meeting the council accepted a resolution from Iowa Light and Power Company to lower residential electric rates by 5%.5 %document 3354, p. 2
July 22, 1963The council agreed to include an extra $2033 in the budget earmarked for a town building, about 10.2 mills over the proposed regular expenditures.$2,033about $22kdocument 3353, p. 2
August 7, 1963An architect from Powers and Associates thought moving the schoolhouses worthwhile if the town could get them on the lot for $4,000; a $1100 quote was reported for a 24 x 60 basement.$4,000about $44kdocument 3352, p. 1
October 2, 1963A supplier proposed selling the town gasoline by the tank at 18.4 cents per gallon plus a 6 cent state tax that would be refunded; the council preferred buying from local stations.18.4 cents/gallondocument 3350, p. 2
November 6, 1963The council accepted $500 from Central Ready-Mix in complete settlement of road damages incurred while the cement company was in the town.$500about $5,506document 3349, p. 1
November 6, 1963The cement company road-damage settlement of $500.00 as printed in 1963 is about $5,500 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$500Deriveddocument 3349, p. 1
November 6, 1963Election clerks and judges were each paid $14.00 for the November 1963 election.$14about $154document 3349, p. 2
November 6, 1963The $4200 asked for 8.7 acres of land for the lagoon is about $483 per acre as printed in 1963 (derived, per acre).$4,200Deriveddocument 3349, p. 1
November 6, 1963The minutes record a price of $3800 for a 900x350 parcel and $4200 for 8.7 acres, and an estimate that condemning a 20-acre piece would cost the town $400 and take six months.$4,200about $46kdocument 3349, p. 1
November 30, 1963The minutes record the Holiday Inn unit at $13,800, a contractor's price of $28,000 for a comparable plant for the town, and $19,275 for the projected lagoon including pipe and land.$19,275about $212kdocument 3348, p. 1
November 30, 1963The projected lagoon cost of $19,275.00 as printed in 1963 is about $210,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$19,275Deriveddocument 3348, p. 1
November 30, 1963The engineer reported sewer bids coming in below estimate, which would give a $3500 cushion if the trend continued.$3,500about $39kdocument 3348, p. 1
December 4, 1963The December 1963 bills include $75.00 for the clerk and $80.00 for the mayor.$80about $881document 3347, p. 1
January 6, 1964A new oil furnace for the school was estimated at about $1,500; the Board of Health resolved to review progress in thirty days.$1,500about $16kdocument 3345, p. 1
February 5, 1964A Des Moines bonding attorney estimated the town's financing cost for the sewer at between $900 and $1,000, and the council moved to appoint him for the town's financial business.$1,000about $11kdocument 3344, p. 1
February 5, 1964The February 1964 bills include $1000.00 to Powers & Associates.$1,000about $11kdocument 3344, p. 1
March 16, 1964The sewer plant's operating cost was estimated at $3,000 yearly to be divided among 138 equivalent family units.3,000 $/yeardocument 3343, p. 2
March 16, 1964The sewer estimate included a plant land acquisition cost of 3 acres at $1,000 per acre.1,000 $ per acredocument 3343, p. 1
March 16, 1964The estimated plant land price of $1,000.00 as printed in 1964 ($ per acre) is about $11,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).1,000 $ per acreDeriveddocument 3343, p. 1
April 1, 1964The council approved a beer permit for the Lark and accepted $200.00 for it.$200about $2,174document 3341, p. 1
April 7, 1964A financial adviser found assessment deficiencies of $4,368 where properties were assessed over 25% of value, and that about $49,000 of unpaid assessments would go on special assessment bonds.$4,368about $47kdocument 3339, p. 1
April 7, 1964In one copy of the 7 April 1964 minutes the financing firm's services 'would run around $3,000'; the same copy adds by telephone that $3,600 is total financing and legal fees against $3,875 in the engineer's estimate.$3,600about $39kdocument 3340, p. 2
April 28, 1964For a company wanting to unload asphalt tank cars on the railroad siding, the council suggested a permit with a $1,000 bond, and set a 90-day load limit on town streets.$1,000about $11kdocument 3338, p. 2
May 20, 1964The financing adviser suggested a fee of at least $100 for anyone who did not hook up by the time construction passed their property line.$100about $1,087document 3336, p. 1
May 20, 1964The council authorized a contract with White-Phillips Company of Davenport for sewer financing, a fee of $2,500, revenue bonds to sell for no more than 4-3/4% and general obligation bonds no more than 4%.$2,500about $27kdocument 3336, p. 1
June 3, 1964The council withheld $250 for the street map from a payment to Shive-Hall, saying the map had never been made accurate.$250about $2,717document 3335, p. 1
August 5, 1964Four sewage plant bids were opened on 5 August 1964, ranging from $30,897.00 to $50,580.00.$30,897about $336kdocument 3332, p. 2
August 14, 1964A resolution of 14 August 1964 awarded the sewage works contract to Glenn Construction Co. of West Des Moines at $37,432.00, described as the best and lowest legal bid; the bids opened on 5 August listed a lower figure of $30,897.00 and no Glenn bid.$37,432about $407kdocument 3331, p. 4
September 3, 1964On 3 September 1964 the council accepted the bid of Sammons Construction Company of Keokuk under an engineering change order, which lowered the bid by changing specifications and shelving the pond for the time being; the resolution printed the bid as $37,843.00 but the total estimated cost as $22,152.90.$37,843about $411kdocument 3328, p. 2
September 3, 1964The council released a pledge order of $7,908.45 for Powers & Associates' time-and-materials billing from 30 January to 30 July 1964.$7,908about $86kdocument 3330, p. 2
October 7, 1964A resolution approved a contract dated 24 August 1964 with Sammons Construction Co. of Keokuk for the sewage treatment plant in the amount of $114,528.80, with a performance bond in like amount.$114,529about $1.24Mdocument 3326, p. 3
October 7, 1964The treatment plant contract of $114,528.80 as printed in 1964 is about $1,200,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$114,529Deriveddocument 3326, p. 3
October 7, 1964A resolution approved a contract dated 18 August 1964 with Clear Construction Co. of West Des Moines for the sewage works, in the amount of $27,122.00, with a performance bond in like amount.$27,122about $295kdocument 3325, p. 3
October 7, 1964The sewage works contract of $27,122.00 as printed in 1964 is about $290,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$27,122Deriveddocument 3325, p. 3
October 7, 1964The October 1964 bills include $25.00 to the railroad for an easement for an access road and $200.00 for another easement.$25about $272document 3324, p. 2
October 7, 1964The council set the sewer permit fee at $20.00, with a $5.00 discount if paid before 1 November 1964, to pay sewer expenses until rentals could be received.$20about $217document 3324, p. 1
October 7, 1964The council moved to investigate a preliminary plan for a water system, with Powers & Associates as engineers, at a cost not to exceed $1,500.$1,500about $16kdocument 3324, p. 1
October 7, 1964The council voted to have a preliminary plan for a water system investigated, appointing Powers & Associates as engineers at a cost not to exceed $1,500.$1,500about $16kdocument 3324, p. 1
November 3, 1964The council decided to set the sewer tap-on fee at $250.00, to be reviewed each January, and to require all residences and businesses to connect by 1 September 1965.$250about $2,717document 3322, p. 1
November 9, 1964At a special meeting the only bid for drilling a test well was $600.00 from J. E. Latta & Sons, Inc. of Riverside, Iowa.$600about $6,521document 3322, p. 2
November 9, 1964The test well bid of $600.00 as printed in 1964 is about $6,500 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$600Deriveddocument 3322, p. 2
November 17, 1964In the code discussion a speaker said land development cost as much for a $20,000 house as a $30,000 one, and that a $20,000 house could sell here for $18,000 and beat the Iowa City market.$20,000about $217kdocument 3323, p. 1
November 17, 1964The $20,000 house price of $20,000.00 as printed in 1964 is about $220,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$20,000Deriveddocument 3323, p. 1
December 2, 1964The council voted to pay crop damage to the soybean crop on the plant-site land, 1 1/2 acres, at bushels per acre at the current price; $135.97 appears in the bills.$136about $1,478document 3321, p. 2
December 2, 1964Council pay was by the meeting: the mayor was paid $105.00 for 21 meetings at $5 and a councilman $66.00 for 22 meetings at $3.3 $/meetingdocument 3321, p. 2
December 2, 1964The councilman's pay per meeting of $3.00 as printed in 1964 ($/meeting) is about $33 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).3 $/meetingDeriveddocument 3321, p. 2
December 2, 1964The December 1964 receipts include $920.00 from sewer permits.$920about $10,000document 3321, p. 2
January 6, 1965The mayor told prospective east-side developers the property was 1500 to 2000 feet from the plant, at $3.25 a foot to reach it.3.25 $ per footdocument 3320, p. 1
February 3, 1965The council set $5.00 an hour as the charge for private citizens' use of the town tractor operated by a town employee.5 $/hourdocument 3318, p. 1
March 3, 1965One copy of the 3 March 1965 minutes says 10% of the contractor's contract held in escrow means $3400; another copy of the same meeting says $300.$3,400about $36kdocument 3316, p. 1
March 3, 1965The mayor said the town had kept its streets in good shape on an annual budget of $3,000 and intended to hold to it, and said the town would not go into debt over streets.3,000 $/yeardocument 3316, p. 1
March 3, 1965The mayor said an earlier estimate figured $65,000 for a water system on revenue, which would add another $3.00 to what customers paid for sewer and water.$65,000about $695kdocument 3317, p. 2
May 5, 1965The financing firm said a pipeline adequate for a town of Tiffin's size cost about $10,000 a mile, with Wellman building a municipal gas system on revenue bonds.10,000 $ per miledocument 3314, p. 1
May 5, 1965A financing firm representative said a $4.35 monthly sewer rental would be adequate.4.35 $/monthdocument 3314, p. 1
May 5, 1965The monthly sewer rental of $4.35 as printed in 1965 ($/month) is about $47 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).4.35 $/monthDeriveddocument 3314, p. 1
May 13, 1965The letter said the sewer permit was $20.00 at present and, after 1 September 1965, the ordinance stipulated $250.00 for each house sewer permit.$250about $2,674document 3313, p. 1
June 2, 1965A tentative water system figure of $75,000 was to be financed by $18,000 in general obligation bonds, $45,000 in revenue bonds and a $12,000 balance of roughly $100 assessment each for 120 users.$75,000about $802kdocument 3312, p. 1
August 9, 1965Two bids were received for removing a diseased elm, $70 and $72, and the work was awarded to the lower.$70about $749document 3310, p. 1
September 27, 1965At a special meeting the council unanimously accepted a liquor licence application and approved a beer licence for The Lark Supper Club, Inc., and took in $200.00 for the beer permit.$200about $2,139document 3309, p. 1
October 6, 1965Ordinance No. 57 set the sewer rental for each single dwelling unit at $6.53 a month for the first twelve months to September 1966, reduced to $4.35 a month thereafter.6.53 $/monthdocument 4712, p. 1
November 3, 1965After an accident at the crossing the mayor wrote to the Attorney General; the approximate cost of a crossing signal was $10,000 and signals came out of farm-to-market road funds.$10,000about $107kdocument 3305, p. 1
December 1, 1965For a church under construction the council waived the $250.00 tap-on fee, required the $20.00 permit fee, and started rentals from the date of hook-up.$250about $2,674document 3304, p. 2
December 1, 1965A resolution set a date for proceedings to issue $98,000 in Sewer Revenue Bonds to fund pledge orders, stating the sewage works and treatment plant were built at a cost of approximately $98,000.$98,000about $1.05Mdocument 3304, p. 1
December 21, 1965On 21 December 1965 the council adopted Ordinance No. 58 issuing $98,000 in Sewer Revenue Bonds, 98 bonds of $1,000 at 4-1/2% interest, dated 1 December 1965, with the last maturing 1 January 2002.$98,000about $1.05Mdocument 4713, p. 3
December 21, 1965The sewer revenue bond issue of $98,000.00 as printed in 1965 is about $1,000,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$98,000Deriveddocument 4713, p. 3
December 21, 1965The minutes say the financing firm could give the landowner a check for $5,000 once the attorney's opinion on the plant-site property was out.$5,000about $53kdocument 3303, p. 2
January 5, 1966The council paid the retiring clerk $100.00 for work on the sewer project and $1.75 an hour for time with her successor, who was also paid $1.75 an hour.1.75 $/hourdocument 3302, p. 1
February 2, 1966The well driller's letter said the town had paid for everything but the casing when the test well was dug; the council discussed keeping the casing for $392.50 and decided to negotiate because it was not budgeted.$392about $4,082document 3302, p. 2
March 22, 1966The council authorized spraying and trimming the town's elms at a total cost not to exceed $500.00.$500about $5,200document 3301, p. 1
March 22, 1966The council cancelled a $500.00 warrant that had been issued as an option on the plant-site land.$500about $5,200document 3301, p. 2
April 6, 1966A Rock Island Line representative said a railroad crossing signal came under the Iowa Commerce Commission, with a hearing, and the town's share would be 10%, the county's 10% and the state's 80%.10 %document 3300, p. 1
April 6, 1966The engineer's letter showed an outstanding balance of $906.67 for work on the sewer; the council waited for a breakdown of the total $98,000 spent before paying.$907about $9,429document 3300, p. 1
April 6, 1966A paving company representative estimated $350 to $400 per block for a scarify-and-relay process and 25 cents per square yard for a seal coat.375 $ per blockdocument 3300, p. 1
April 6, 1966An FHA representative asked the mayor and council to be at the fire station on 12 April 1966 so Representative Schmidhauser could present the town with a $14,000.00 federal grant for the town water plant.$14,000about $146kdocument 3300, p. 1
May 3, 1966The FHA procedure required petitioning 80 users, each making a $25.00 cash contribution when signing, and then a vote at which 50% of townspeople had to approve before bonds were sold.$25about $260document 3299, p. 1
May 3, 1966At a special meeting Farmers Home Administration representatives set the water rate at $4.75 per unit, an average from a survey of small towns, with a minimum of 80 guaranteed users needed before the loan could close.4.75 $/unitdocument 3299, p. 1
May 4, 1966The mayor reported the town paid $5,00.00 as printed for the sewer plant land; with 4 1/2% interest of $225.00 the council paid the seller the tax levy plus interest, $271.10.$5,000about $52kdocument 3298, p. 1
May 4, 1966The sewer plant land payment of $5,000.00 as printed in 1966 is about $52,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$5,000Deriveddocument 3298, p. 1
May 4, 1966The town received two bids for street work, $4,055.28 from Pelling and $6,653.00 from the Willman Company, and accepted Pelling's.$4,055about $42kdocument 3298, p. 1
June 1, 1966The mayor told the school board that town water would cost the school roughly a little over $100.00 per month.100 $/monthdocument 3297, p. 1
June 1, 1966The mayor asked the clerk to write White-Phillips for a cost analysis of the $28,000 used to construct the sewer system.$28,000about $291kdocument 3297, p. 1
June 1, 1966The council moved to sell $4000.00 worth of bonds to surface streets, retirable in 10 years or less.$4,000about $42kdocument 3297, p. 1
June 1, 1966The street bond issue of $4,000.00 as printed in 1966 is about $42,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$4,000Deriveddocument 3297, p. 1
July 6, 1966The council set the fee for mowing of lawns by the town at $5.00 per lot.5 $/lotdocument 3296, p. 1
July 6, 1966The council asked the clerk to write Powers for a breakdown of the $12,703.63 which was their portion of the sewer construction cost and the $906.00 listed as an outstanding balance.$12,704about $132kdocument 3296, p. 1
July 6, 1966At a hearing on the sale of $4000.00 of public improvement bonds no objections were heard, and the council voted to sell the bonds to finance street repair and to advertise the sale for 8:00 PM on 3 August.$4,000about $42kdocument 3296, p. 1
August 3, 1966The engineer estimated $2300.00 for a detention pond of 140' x 100' x 3' at the sewer plant.$2,300about $24kdocument 3295, p. 1
August 12, 1966On 3 August 1966 the only sealed bid for the $4000.00 public improvement bonds, from the Iowa State Bank and Trust Company at par with a 4% coupon, was opened, and on 12 August the council voted to accept it.$4,000about $42kdocument 3295, p. 1
November 2, 1966With 45 signatures in favor of the water system the council decided against signing a $750.00 contract with Powers at that time.$750about $7,800document 3290, p. 1
December 7, 1966A tree-removal firm bid $750.00 to chip stumps below ground and haul them to the sewage plant to burn; the council hired the firm with a discount for not chipping the stumps.$750about $7,800document 3289, p. 1
March 1, 1967The town took in $10.00 as a building permit fee in March 1967 for a granted building permit.$10about $101document 3286, p. 1
March 1, 1967The council raised the Clerk's and Treasurer's salaries to $250.00 and $100.00 per year respectively, retroactive to 1 January 1967.250 $/yeardocument 3286, p. 1
April 5, 1967The engineer's opinion was that $4.75 should be a minimum when metered water first started.$5about $48document 3285, p. 1
May 3, 1967The council voted to remove abandoned cars from a lot at an expense of no more than $10.00 per car, deciding later whom to assess.10 $/cardocument 3284, p. 1
May 3, 1967The council voted to treat the town's elm trees with injectable Bydron at a limit of 0.10 per inch of circumference per tree, with the mayor-appointed estimator figuring about $200.00.0.1 per inch of circumferencedocument 3284, p. 2
May 9, 1967The ballot for the 9 May 1967 special election asked whether to establish a municipal waterworks at a maximum expenditure of $115,000.00, paid solely out of net earnings without incurring any indebtedness.$115,000about $1.16Mdocument 3283, p. 2
May 9, 1967The ballot ceiling for the waterworks of $115,000.00 as printed in 1967 is about $1,200,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$115,000Deriveddocument 3283, p. 2
June 7, 1967The council decided to tell the Johnson County Development Association that it could not see paying $500 in fees, and said it had not budgeted the money.$500about $5,044document 3281, p. 1
June 7, 1967The council voted to pay election clerks and judges $1.00 per hour for elections.1 $/hourdocument 3281, p. 1
August 2, 1967The mayor received two estimates for digging the sewer plant pond, $1911.00 and $3960.00.$1,911about $19kdocument 3279, p. 1
August 2, 1967A councilman suggested hiring a part-time law enforcement officer at $2.25 per hour.2.25 $/hourdocument 3279, p. 1
August 2, 1967Johnson County Planning Commission cut its annual fee from $300.00 to $100.00, and the council rescinded its decision not to join.100 $/yeardocument 3279, p. 1
September 26, 1967At a special meeting the council hired an excavator to straighten and dredge the plant outfall for $450.00 and to extend the sewer main 300 feet west along Highway 6 for $1300.00, and awarded the detention pond contract.$450about $4,540document 3278, p. 1
November 22, 1967A bill of $1256.89 from an excavator for digging the sewer line to a new house property was presented, with the council to pay a portion now and the rest when excavating finished.$1,257about $13kdocument 3275, p. 1
December 6, 1967The council accepted an offer of $120.00 for 200 bushels of corn harvested on the town's property.$120about $1,211document 3274, p. 1
December 6, 1967In December 1967 councilmen were paid $3.00 per meeting and the mayor $5.00 per meeting; the clerk's salary was $250.00 and the treasurer's $100.00.5 $/meetingdocument 3274, p. 1
December 6, 1967The December 1967 bills include a $15.00 fee to the Iowa Natural Resources Council for a withdrawal permit for town wells.$15about $151document 3274, p. 1
January 24, 1968The council appointed Ralph Neuzil Town Attorney at $15.00 per council meeting attended, with additional legal work itemized.15 $/meetingdocument 3258, p. 1
February 13, 1968The mayor told FHA officials the town could buy land and change the water tank site if it could be obtained for $1000.00 or under.$1,000about $9,682document 3272, p. 1
March 6, 1968The mayor gave comparative costs for the water storage: a 60-foot standpipe at $20,000, against an estimated $18,000 to disassemble, move and reassemble a donated tower.$20,000about $194kdocument 3271, p. 1
March 13, 1968At a special meeting the council moved to submit a sealed bid of $3500.00 for land and buildings, with the option to raise the bid.$3,500about $34kdocument 3271, p. 2
April 3, 1968The council offered $1,000.00 for the land required for the street extension (the new school's access).$1,000about $9,682document 3270, p. 2
April 3, 1968Receipts of 3 April 1968 included $795.82 in sewer payments and $75.00 in water system deposits.$75about $726document 3270, p. 2
May 2, 1968The council voted to tell the Johnson County Board of Health it intended to budget $320.00 in the 1969 budget.$320about $3,098document 3269, p. 2
June 5, 1968A landowner was asking $500.00 for easement rights for the water line; the council later heard easements could cost $1.00 a foot and that condemnation might be needed.$500about $4,841document 3267, p. 1
June 5, 1968The water tower site lease from the school district was reported at $50.00 per year, written first as 75-year lease.50 $/yeardocument 3267, p. 1
September 4, 1968The engineer found in the fine print that the bond election specified a total project cost not to exceed $115,000, so a new election to raise the limit to not more than $150,000 was needed.$150,000about $1.45Mdocument 3264, p. 3
September 4, 1968The estimated water financing at the bid opening was a $68,000 loan at 4%, a $14,000 grant and a $47,000 loan at 5%, for $149,000.$149,000about $1.44Mdocument 3264, p. 3
September 4, 1968Five bids were read for Contract B of the municipal water system, ranging from $27,755.50 to $65,950.80.$27,756about $269kdocument 3264, p. 1
September 4, 1968An FHA representative said the minimum rate, expected at $4.75 for about 3,000 gallons a month, would probably rise to around $6.00 or $6.25 with new money at 5%, and the minutes also mention $6.50 per month.6.25 $/monthdocument 3264, p. 2
September 4, 1968The engineer analyzed the total water project cost on the bids received at $145,752.00 against a recent estimate of $132,000; the FHA's figure, excluding initial operating costs and an existing well, was $143,682.00.$145,752about $1.41Mdocument 3264, p. 2
September 4, 1968The engineer's water project cost of $145,752.00 as printed in 1968 is about $1,400,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$145,752Deriveddocument 3264, p. 2
September 4, 1968Two bids were read for Contract A, the wells, of $4,922.45 and $3,881.75.$3,882about $38kdocument 3264, p. 1
September 19, 1968The FHA required treatment of iron if the content was more than .2 grains; Tiffin's analysis was 3.5 grains.3.5 grainsdocument 3262, p. 1
September 19, 1968The engineer noted the redesigned system still came to much more than the $5.00 per month estimated earlier.5 $/monthdocument 3262, p. 1
September 19, 1968The engineer reported a Pittsburgh-Des Moines estimate of around $23,000 to $25,000 for a standpipe, against earlier bids of $31,700.$24,000about $232kdocument 3262, p. 1
October 3, 1968The October 1968 bills include $200.00 for a water easement; the owner had asked $500.00 in June.$200about $1,936document 3261, p. 2
October 3, 1968The engineer said the water system might be cut to a $115,000 cost but the rate per user would still be $6.50 to $7.50 without additional grant money.7.5 $/monthdocument 3261, p. 1
October 3, 1968The council listed selling points for water signers: a cheaper tap-on fee now, no gas until water is put in, and construction costs rising 20 per cent a year.20 %document 3261, p. 1
October 3, 1968The October 1968 bills include $10.60 to Frohwein Supply for a town seal.$11about $103document 3261, p. 2
October 3, 1968An FHA representative said 108 users would be the minimum, counting the school and the Lark, and Tiffin then had 87.108 usersdocument 3261, p. 1
November 14, 1968At a special meeting the council brought in 27 more water user contracts, raising signed users to 77 single units, with the school adding 19 and the Lark 5, and the list of potential single-unit users revised to 101.77 unitsdocument 3260, p. 2
December 4, 1968In December 1968 councilmen were still paid $3 per meeting and the mayor $5; the attorney was paid $15 per council meeting plus letters.3 $/meetingdocument 3259, p. 1
December 4, 1968December 1968 receipts included $155.00 in water deposits.$155about $1,501document 3259, p. 1
January 7, 1969The January 1969 bills include $1000.00 to Central National Bank for a sewer bond due and $877.50, $450.00, $135.00, $112.50 and $22.50 in sewer revenue bond coupons.$1,000about $9,181document 3257, p. 2
March 27, 1969The council raised again the bond election that specified a total project cost not to exceed $115,000, and planned to see whether grant money could be excluded from the cost to the town.$115,000about $1.06Mdocument 3251, p. 2
March 27, 1969Latta & Sons of Riverside bid $4884.26 for Contract A (wells).$4,884about $45kdocument 3251, p. 1
March 27, 1969Remakel & Felderman of Bellevue, Iowa bid $32,729.50 on Contract B, the lowest of four.$32,730about $300kdocument 3251, p. 1
March 27, 1969M.F. Goerdt Construction Co. of Dubuque bid $35,762.00 on Contract C (treatment plant), the lowest of five.$35,762about $328kdocument 3251, p. 1
March 27, 1969Andrews Tank & Tower Service of Hopkins, Missouri bid $21,960.00 for a standpipe on Contract D; Pittsburgh-Des Moines Steel bid $23,000.00 for a standpipe and $30,300.00 for elevated storage.$21,960about $202kdocument 3251, p. 1
March 27, 1969At the 27 March 1969 bid opening the engineer found the low bids on each water contract amounted to $95,335.76, about $122,000 with engineering, interest, design and bid letting.$95,336about $875kdocument 3251, p. 2
March 27, 1969The low water-system bids totalling $95,335.76 as printed in 1969 is about $880,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$95,336Deriveddocument 3251, p. 2
March 27, 1969The four low bids on the water system contracts (A $4884.26, B $32,729.50, C $35,762.00, D $21,960.00) sum to $95,335.76, equal to the total the engineer stated.$95,336Deriveddocument 3251, p. 2
April 2, 1969The council accepted a new town clerk to replace the resigning clerk effective 1 May and raised the clerk's salary to $30.00 a month on a temporary basis.30 $/monthdocument 3250, p. 3
April 2, 1969A letter said Tiffin's share of the Johnson County Board of Health budget was $350.00; the council decided the town could not afford it and tabled the letter.$350about $3,213document 3250, p. 1
April 2, 1969A contractor offered to dredge the sewer ditch with a drag line and level the dirt for approximately $460.00.$460about $4,223document 3250, p. 1
April 2, 1969The engineer showed rates per customer at approximately $6.00 per month with 104 customers, the town's equivalent then.6 $/monthdocument 3250, p. 1
May 7, 1969The council granted a building permit for an addition to a home upon receipt of $10.00.$10about $92document 3249, p. 1
June 2, 1969A councilman said according to a report of 3 April 1969 the FHA would give the town a grant of $14,000 and purchase the remaining bonds.$14,000about $129kdocument 3248, p. 1
June 9, 1969An FHA representative said the monthly rental would be a minimum of $6.50, while a mayor said according to the plans the monthly cost should be $5.99.6.5 $/monthdocument 3247, p. 1
June 9, 1969The engineer said hooking the school to the fire station well on a temporary basis would cost about $2500, including $1500 for a 2 inch line and $1000 to put the present well in operation.$2,500about $23kdocument 3247, p. 1
June 16, 1969The council decided the water tap-on fee would be $100, with the town installing to the lot line and the owner responsible for the rest.$100about $918document 3247, p. 3
July 2, 1969The council passed a resolution naming the Iowa State Bank and Trust to insure the deposits of the Town of Tiffin in amounts up to $25,000.$25,000about $230kdocument 3245, p. 1
July 2, 1969The July 1969 bills include $1485.00 for interest on sewer bonds, and $160.00 interest on the street bonds.$1,485about $14kdocument 3245, p. 2
July 2, 1969A hauler offered to pick up trash and garbage for all residents at $2 per month instead of the present $2.50; on a split vote the council voted to explain the pickup to residents when the August sewer bill was sent.2 $/monthdocument 3245, p. 1
July 2, 1969The attorney read a proposed water ordinance with rates of $6.00 for the first 3000 gallons a month, then $1.00, $.80, $.60 and $.50 per thousand gallons in successive blocks.6 $ per first 3000 gal/monthdocument 3245, p. 1
July 21, 1969At the 21 July 1969 re-bid the engineer found the low bids totalled $98,671, which was $3336 more than the $95,335.76 of the March bids.$98,671about $906kdocument 3244, p. 1
July 21, 1969The low water-system bids totalling $98,671 as printed in 1969 is about $910,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$98,671Deriveddocument 3244, p. 1
July 24, 1969By roll call the council unanimously adopted a resolution awarding contracts for the municipal waterworks to Latta and Sons (wells, $4842.00), Chalupa Bros. (mains), M.F. Goerdt Construction (treatment plant, $38910.00) and C.L. Carroll Co. (above-ground storage tank, $21,440.00).$38,910about $357kdocument 3243, p. 1
July 24, 1969The engineer said the FHA was trying to get the town an additional grant of $5000 to cover the increase in bids.$5,000about $46kdocument 3243, p. 1
July 24, 1969The 24 July 1969 minutes list the four low bidders, giving Contract B (water mains) as $33479.50, while the bid reading three days earlier gave $33,479.30.$33,480about $307kdocument 3243, p. 1
July 24, 1969The council voted to buy the 60 by 186 foot lot for the Third Street extension toward the new high school for $1650, $165 down and $1485 on or before 15 August 1969.$1,650about $15kdocument 3243, p. 1
July 24, 1969The lot for the Third Street extension at $1,650.00 as printed in 1969 is about $15,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$1,650Deriveddocument 3243, p. 1
July 24, 1969The $1650 lot of 60 by 186 feet works out to about $6,440 per acre (derived, per acre, from the printed dimensions); the price per lot as printed is $1650.$1,650Deriveddocument 3243, p. 1
July 24, 1969The treasurer reported $7664 in the sewer fund and the council voted to invest $7000 of it in 90 day time certificates.$7,664about $70kdocument 3243, p. 1
July 24, 1969The council voted to transfer $1700 from the liquor profit account to the water account.$1,700about $16kdocument 3243, p. 2
July 24, 1969The engineer estimated average monthly water income of about $707 against average expenses of $691, based on 104 users.707 $/monthdocument 3243, p. 1
August 6, 1969The council voted by three ayes to one nay to pay a $358.86 bill to the railroad, which the minutes call five years old, for constructing three crossings by the sewer plant.$359about $3,295document 3242, p. 1
August 6, 1969The attorney received a letter saying signals would be built within nine months, the railroad and the State sharing the cost, estimated at around $12,000, with no cost to the town.$12,000about $110kdocument 3242, p. 1
August 14, 1969The council raised the clerk's salary to $600 a year for the increased work with the water coming in.600 $/yeardocument 3241, p. 1
September 3, 1969Of 80 questionnaires on whether the town should contract with a hauler for everyone's trash, fifty-three were returned, 44 yes and 9 no, and the council decided the town could not legally accept the offer.44 yes votesdocument 3240, p. 1
September 30, 1969The town's September 1969 financial statement shows total fund balances of $12,781.78 on 30 September, with a separate sewer fund balance of $8,230.17 and $6,878.21 of it invested.$12,782about $117kdocument 3239, p. 1
October 1, 1969The balance of $1485 on the $1650 price of the lot for the Third Street extension was paid to the sellers in October 1969.$1,485about $14kdocument 3238, p. 1
October 1, 1969A suit by an implement company against the town was discussed over $160 for a mower the town was going to buy in 1962; the minutes say the agreement was the town would buy it if in working order.$160about $1,469document 3238, p. 1
October 27, 1969At a special meeting the council adopted a resolution to fix a date for proceedings to issue $108,000 Waterworks Revenue Bonds, set for 1 December 1969, and a resolution to advertise them.$108,000about $992kdocument 3237, p. 1
November 5, 1969The council chose to have the bonds printed by the Bayard News of Bayard, Iowa for $250, against $450 from a Chicago printer.$250about $2,295document 3235, p. 1
November 5, 1969The council moved to pay $2000 on the $4000 street bonds, and the November bills include $2000.00 paid to the Iowa State Bank for street bonds.$2,000about $18kdocument 3235, p. 1
December 1, 1969At a special meeting on 1 December 1969 the Farmers Home Administration was the only bidder and purchased the $108,000 waterworks revenue bonds, and the council passed resolutions authorizing, awarding and securing them.$108,000about $992kdocument 3233, p. 1
December 1, 1969The waterworks revenue bond issue of $108,000.00 as printed in 1969 is about $990,000 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$108,000Deriveddocument 3233, p. 1
December 1, 1969Ordinance No. 62 established water rates: a $6.00 minimum monthly bill for the first 3,000 gallons, then $1.00, $.75, $.50 and $.40 per 1,000 gallons in successive blocks.6 $/monthdocument 4715, p. 1
December 1, 1969The minimum monthly water bill of $6.00 as printed in 1969 ($/month) is about $55 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).6 $/monthDeriveddocument 4715, p. 1
December 1, 1969Ordinance No. 63 provided meter tests free if not tested in the prior twelve months and otherwise $2.00, and a minimum $10.00 deposit for construction water.$2about $18document 4716, p. 2
December 1, 1969Ordinance No. 62 set a $100.00 connection charge for applications filed after the water system began operating, a $12.00 deposit from tenants, and a $10.00 charge on reconnecting a cut-off service.$100about $918document 4715, p. 2
December 1, 1969The water connection charge of $100.00 as printed in 1969 is about $920 in 2026 dollars (derived, CPI-U).$100Deriveddocument 4715, p. 2
December 1, 1969Ordinance No. 62 added a delayed payment charge of ten percent after the 10th of the month and allowed the supply to be cut off after 10 days.10 %document 4715, p. 2
December 1, 1969A council member introduced a resolution authorizing the issuance of $108,000 worth of bonds, after the Farmers Home Administration representative had purchased the bonds as the only bidder.$108,000about $992kdocument 3233, p. 1
December 3, 1969The December 1969 bills show year-end salary payments: the mayor $105.00, the clerk $370.00, the attorney $370.36 including letters, and council members $54.00 to $68.00.$105about $964document 3232, p. 2
December 3, 1969The council raised the Treasurer's salary from $100 to $150 a year, including 1969.150 $/yeardocument 3232, p. 1
December 22, 1969The December 1969 bills include $300.00 to the Bayard News for printing the bonds, against the $250 quote accepted earlier that month.$300about $2,754document 3231, p. 1
December 22, 1969The water project legal and administration bills included $500.00 to Chapman and Cutler and $1000.00 to the town attorney.$500about $4,590document 3231, p. 1
December 22, 1969The council voted to pay the Farmers Home Administration $207.00 for interest on the water bonds.$207about $1,900document 3231, p. 1

"As printed" is the figure on the page, of its year. "In today's dollars" is derived: the printed amount × the CPI-U ratio (hover for the factor). Budgets are adjusted from the year the fiscal year began.

Data last updated October 23, 2026. Built from the archive's documents; see how the data is built.