By unanimous vote, the Galva City Council approved a proposed reduction in the current tax rate by $.056, based on estimates from Henry County.
“This could change if the state intervenes,” said City Administrator David Dyer, adding that the rate will take effect on May 1, 2026, and stay through April 30, 2027.
Following the recommendation of the planning committee, the city’s comprehensive plan was also passed by unanimous vote. Several additional suggestions were discussed by the committee, including a dog park, a designated area for train enthusiasts and a splash pad in a city park.
Dyer noted that the three ideas would need public input before being considered.
Alderman John Wirth discussed the need for an appropriate buyer for the former Lord Chevrolet building on Market Street.
“It is important to know what a buyer’s plans are,” he said. “We need someone who will renovate the building, make it attractive and add retail sales to the town.”
Several council members echoed his concerns, agreeing that the building should not be used solely for storage. The 5,000 square foot building was erected in 1950.
“The input from the community tells me it’s worth preserving,” said Wirth.
Mayor Rich Volkert said that proposals will be forthcoming.
Wirth also presented his report on the new playground equipment being considered for Wiley Park. He and his committee consisting of parents, children and construction professionals studied proposals presented by two vendors and selected one of the options, with two changes.
The chosen vendor will present their proposal at the February council meeting. Dyer noted that the cost to replace the equipment will be roughly $150,000.
All Operations Manager Greg Thompson reported that there is a water leak in Veterans Park, and he hopes to have it fixed soon.
“The weather has hindered repairs, and we have to wait for an increase in temperatures to finish the job,” said Thompson.
Chief of Police Kraig Townsend discussed the need to keep vehicles off the roadways when it snows.
“Vehicles left on the street make it very difficult for the city employees to clear the roads,” he said. “Many residents are difficult to contact, while others repeatedly ignore requests to keep cars and trucks off the street.”
Mayor Volkert expressed his sincere thanks to all the city employees and volunteers who keep Galva in great shape.
“We are so lucky to have so many people, paid and unpaid, who make the city a great place to live. We could not operate as we do without them,” the mayor said.
Alderman Wirth gave kudos to the city employees and how well they took care of the town during and after the recent storm.
“They did a fantastic job.”
The rest of the council members echoed Wirth’s sentiments, with Alderman Anderson wishing the council and the audience members a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Prior to the meeting, a public hearing was held to discuss the proposed property tax increase.
The next council meeting will be held on Jan. 5, 2026, in the Council Chambers in City Hall at 6 p.m. The public is invited to attend.
