Protesters have been gathering at times downtown by Jeff’s Market on the corner of Maurer and Fourth streets during the past couple weeks. Wilton city council members opened up the April 13 meeting with discussion on possible action toward the protests.
City Administrator Chris Ball said that as long as the protesters are not impeding traffic or citizens, they can continue to protest. Their speech is protected by freedom of speech and freedom of religion under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, even though their words are controversial, according to Ball.
Mayor Bob Barrett stated his efforts to go talk with other cities to see what “we can and cannot do” in regard to protesters in Wilton. Ball has already begun talking with other cities, such as Iowa City, to see what their procedures are when it comes to protesting.
In other discussion, City Clerk Lori Brown was set to retire in mid April, but she has adjusted her plans to help during the COVID-19 pandemic. The following statement was included in council member packets:
"Due to the conflictions with the virus and office staffing, Lori will not be leaving her position as previously stated. She will keep working through the months of April and May of this year. As of now, her predicted last day at the City Hall will be May 29, 2020."
Ball updated the council on city essential workers, stating that all staff is doing split shifts at City Hall and Wilton Public Works. As of now, the city has continued paying their city employees even though some are working from home.
Steve Owens said he would suggest continue paying the employees because they didn’t ask to stay home, “I am sure they want to continue working,” he said.
It was suggested that the city pay these essential workers for another month, and then revisit the situation and reassess. The council approved their continued pay.
Administrative Items
* Ball told council that recycling is still being picked up, but it is being thrown in the trash due to the COVID-19 virus. The only recycling item being kept and recycled is cardboard because it “offers the least amount of risk.”
Ball urged the city to continue recycling their items, and they will continue to be picked up throughout the pandemic.
* Ball also discussed late payments for city services. The city will not be shutting down services for residents who cannot afford their utility payments during the pandemic — however, if a resident cannot pay, he urged them to call City Hall (563-732-2115) to set up a payment plan.
Miscellany
In other action, council:
* Member Ted Marolf informed the council that the landscaping for the Muscatine County Freedom Rock area will be started next week. A total of 170 pavers have been placed and the organization is looking for more.
* Member Wayne Budding gave a shout out to the community for all the good that has come out of the COVID-19 virus. “As bad as this whole thing has been, some good has come out of it,” Budding said.
* Council approved a pay increase for Matt Wagaman, a city employee working with the water and wastewater department. His pay went from $18 to $19.07.
Council members Keith Stanley, Marolf, Budding, Sheryl Lenker and Owens were present. All action taken was unanimous unless otherwise noted. The next regular meeting is April 27 at 7 p.m.