Ottumwa voted ‘Best Overnight Stop’ by RAGBRAI riders, according to reports at the City Council meeting Tuesday evening.
Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress (GOPIP) reported that there were 18,000 RAGBRAI riders that came through Ottumwa this summer. An estimated 10,000-11,000 riders attending downtown activities and stayed overnight. There was 89% occupancy compared to last years 58%. Ottumwa was voted the ‘Best Overnight Stop’ by the participants of RAGBRAI.
The Local Option Sales and Services Tax is due to expire by December 31, 2025. The City Administrator reported that an optional 1% sales tax was adopted previously by voters and currently provides $4.4 million to the City.
City Council members remind citizens to vote on September 10.
The third reading to amend the Motor Vehicle and Traffic Code and legalize the use of golf carts on public roads within City limits was passed 3-2.
The Council discussed zone classification regarding the property on 1014 North Elm Street. Residents in the area attended the meeting and expressed their concerns about the two-family residential district changing to a multi-family residential for temporary housing. The Council passed the third reading 4-1.
Additionally, the public is encouraged to attend the zone commission meeting. It will be held at the Bridge View Center on September 9 at 6 p.m.
