IOLA, Kan. — Plans are in the works for projects in Iola connected with America’s 250th anniversary next year.
At Monday’s Iola City Council meeting, member Jon Wells brought forth an idea that will involve the city, Allen Community College, USD 257 and Thrive Allen County. The college and school district will each be putting in $2,500 towards projects, and the city is being asked to contribute $5,000, with student-driven projects to be brought to each for their consideration.
Wells said this is a way to get students involved in the community. The expectation is students will be presenting their projects in March or April, either separately or in joint meetings, with projects to be completed in or by the fall though this is flexible as celebrations and events will be taking place year-round.
The Council approved a 2.8 percent cost of living raise for city employees for 2026. The adopted budget for next year allowed up to a three percent COLA, and the approved increase is three tenths of a point above what Social Security recipients will receive.
The Council also agreed to waive rental fees for Allen County Veterans’ Mess Call dinner Friday, Nov. 7 at the Bass North Community Building and cancelled their Nov. 24 meeting, as there is a possibility there might not be a quorum for that meeting. If there is urgent business that needs to be dealt with, a special meeting will be called.
