MUSCATINE, Iowa – Acts of heroism and dedication to community safety will take center stage during the Muscatine City Councils’ regular meeting on Thursday, July 17, at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers.
Mayor Brad Bark will present Lifesaving Awards to Muscatine Police Officers Samantha Wheeler and Darran Ritchie, as well as Cedar County Detective Matt Jackson, in recognition of their extraordinary efforts during two separate emergency incidents.
On June 11, 2025, Officers Wheeler and Ritchie responded to a medical emergency involving an unconscious, non-breathing woman. Their swift response and coordinated actions are credited with saving her life.
Detective Jackson is being honored for his role in a May 29, 2024, high-speed pursuit that ended in a shooting at the intersection of Highway 61 and Cedar Street. Jackson’s quick decision-making and accurate response are credited with saving the life of Muscatine Police Officer Adam Bell.
In addition to honoring first responders, Mayor Bark will proclaim July 31, 2025, as International Lifeguard and Pool Staff Appreciation Day in Muscatine. The recognition marks the 20th summer of the Muscatine Aquatic Center and celebrates the staff’s commitment to safety and service at the popular community facility.
Public Hearing and Development Projects
A public hearing will be held during the meeting to review a proposed development agreement with T&T Hackett Development Group, LLC. The project calls for a 28-unit residential subdivision on a 9.25-acre lot located between the southern end of Clarabeck Lane and the northern end of Green Acres Drive. The City Council is expected to vote on a resolution approving the agreement later in the evening.
Council members will also consider several additional action items, including:
- Setting a public hearing for August 7, 2025, on a development agreement with Carver Pump Company
- Approval of plats for the Hackett Development and Hackett Development 1st Addition
- Award of contract to Needham Excavating for $183,480 for the Dredge Spoils Relocation Trenchless Pipe Installation Project
Other Business on the Agenda
The Council will also take action on the following:
- Approval of new stop sign installations at multiple city intersections
- Approval of an $85,646 contract with Hy-Brand Industrial Contractors LTD for Mississippi Mist Spray Pad improvements
- Authorization of the 2025–2026 Muscatine City Deer Hunt
- Approval of a $28,550 purchase order to ZWB General Construction for roof replacement at Pearl City Station
Public Participation Encouraged
Residents are encouraged to attend the meeting in person or watch the live broadcast on Civic-TV (MPW Channel 2) or via the City’s YouTube channel. The full agenda and supporting documents are available online at www.muscatineiowa.gov by selecting “AGENDA” under the July 17, 2025 City Council meeting.
Individuals requiring accommodations to participate should contact the City Clerk’s Office at 563-264-1550.