Newton Citizens Forum

This is my recap of the October 7, 2025 council meeting. A public hearing was held for the somewhat controversial Oakview Reserve 55+ community to rezone the subject property from R-20 to PD-H. The hearing followed several town hall meetings held by the developer explaining and detailing the plans for the community. Even though the planning board had chosen not to recommend this project, the presentation by the Planning Director was positive towards the change. In the end, the City Council decided to approve the rezoning. Old business involved consideration to award a bid for the very controversial Startown Fire Station (NFD Station #3). Even more so than the public hearing, the discussion about this project was well planned and choreographed. I don't think anyone in the audience didn't notice the pre-planning and the outcome was not in question. The motion to award the bid to Moss Marlowe passed 4-2, with Danner and McClure voting no. I do note a statement by the fire chief that the new ladder truck is about 60 days out. There was also a budget ordinance passed in the amount of $505,000.00 for revenue from unneeded distribution supplies.

Also, a contract was awarded to J. T. Russell to widen and pave Dove Street in the amount of $770,777.77. The road itself is 3,800.00 feet long.

Commentary: It was obvious to all that the fire station was and is being ramrodded through the process to get it approved before the election. See the November meeting recap for more proof. This entry is being made on November 24, 2025.