The Ottumwa Historic Preservation Commission is accepting nominations for the 2023 Excellence in Preservation Awards.
The Excellence in Preservation Awards will honor the best examples of historic rehabilitation, special preservation projects and local advocates advancing the cause of historic preservation in Ottumwa. This is the first year for the event. “These awards are an opportunity to recognize some of the outstanding efforts to preserve historic places in Ottumwa,” said Commission Chair Dennis Willhoit. “It’s about showing appreciation, building a community of preservation advocates and setting the example for excellence.”
Award categories include Preservation Advocate, Excellent in Residential Rehabilitation, Excellence in Commercial Rehabilitation, Outstanding Preservation Special Project and more. Projects must have been completed in the last five years to be eligible for an award. Self-nominations will be accepted in most categories.
Nominations are due Wednesday April 5, 2023 at 4:30pm. The awards program rules, categories and nomination form are available at ottumwa.us/preservation. Awards will be presenting at a ceremony during Historic Preservation Month in May.
The Ottumwa Historic Preservation Commission is accepting nominations for the 2023 Excellence in Preservation Awards.
Inflated tire disposal costs have driven the Ottumwa/Wapello County Recycling Center to raise the fee for disposing of tires.
The City of Ottumwa has been awarded a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) for the upper-story apartment project at 307 East Main Street.
Shared electric scooter company Bird Rides has launched its app-based e-scooter program in Ottumwa.
Internet users interested in local historic preservation will have a new way to engage with the Historic Preservation Commission online. The Commission has expanded its online presence, offering new resources and a guided walking tour. The new webpage, www.cityofottumwa.com/preservation, includes a record of local nominations to the National Register of Historic Places, news about historic preservation in Ottumwa and a virtual guided tour. When the Commission launches its newsletter this summer, the webpage will also house current and past issues.
Improved permitting software will now allow Ottumwa residents and contractors to make payments for permits online. City Hall Departments adopted the new software, iWorQ, in March. In addition to improving recordkeeping and coordination between departments, the software has a number of features available to the public via the Public Portal. Residents and contractors can use the Public Portal to complete permit applications, search active permits, check the status of open code enforcement files and, beginning this week, make permit payments. The Public Portal supports licenses issued by the City Clerk, building and rental permits issued by Building and Code Enforcement and fence and sign permits issued by the Planning Department.
