City of Mason City Council Met June 14

By Angelica Saylo Pilo

Aug 12, 2021

City of Mason City Council Met June 14.

Here is the minutes provided by the council:

Call to order by Mayor Bruce Lowe at approximately 7:00 P.M.

Council members physically present were Scott Francis, Gerald Mahin, Jim Miller, Danny Mason, Julie Mize, Kevin Snyder. Assistant Chief Donovan, Frank McMahan, Rachel Mulford, Amy Ziglowsky, John Bradshaw, and Wendy Martin also attended the meeting. Treasurer Mike Griffin and Clerk Michele Whitehead were also present.

Rachel Mulford addressed the Council on several concerns she has regarding the Police department. She referenced an incident regarding some vandalism they called in regarding her family’s establishment. The call was made in the early afternoon but an officer didn’t show up until early evening. She also inquired about response time to an accident the next week, (no injuries) and why there wasn’t a Mason City officer on duty. Asst. Chief Donovan explained he was on duty but in training, and the county provides coverage when our officers are unavailable. She also asked why a new officer came into their establishment late at night requesting a tour. She also commented about other things she has heard regarding a body search and other incidents. The Mayor answered that the Council is handling these issues and that as far as the officer wanting a tour of her bar, there is nothing unwarranted about that, although the timing could have been better. Coverage was another concern Rachel inquired about. The Mayor responded that the department has lost an officer and coverage may be difficult for a while but it is being addressed.

John Bradshaw also addressed the Council regarding an accident near his home a few weeks ago. He had concerns regarding the officer and the mutual aid of the Manito officer. Asst. Chief Donovan explained the mutual aid and how it works to assist our department when needed. Officer Donovan did not comment any further on Mr. Bradshaw’s queries due to ongoing investigations.

Rachel Mulford also inquired about a yield sign at Morgan & Myrtle that seems to be often ignored by drivers. She asked if perhaps that intersection could be patrolled more or even possibly turned into a stop sign intersection instead of a yield. The Council will take into consideration the issue of yield vs stop.

R21-57 Alderman Mason moved, seconded by Alderman Miller to approve the regular session minutes of the May 24th, 2021 meeting