City of Graettinger - Small Town, Big Heart

As the mayor of City of Graettinger, I am thrilled to announce that our community will be participating in the upcoming Severe Weather Week, scheduled for March 25-27, 2024. This is an excellent opportunity for us to come together and prepare for any potential emergencies that may arise during these unpredictable times. Palo Alto County will be participating in the city-wide drill on Wednesday, March 27th, which means you can expect to hear our community warning siren go off at a specified time. This drill is designed to test our emergency response systems and ensure that we are all prepared in the event of a real emergency. We encourage all residents, businesses, and community organizations to take this opportunity to review their personal emergency plans and make sure they are ready for severe weather. This includes having an emergency kit stocked with essentials like non-perishable food, water, flashlights, and first aid supplies. Additionally, it's important to familiarize yourself with the different warning systems in our area and know where to seek shelter during a tornado warning. Please take time to sign up for Palo Alto County Emergency Alert – this is an Emergency Notification System that serves Palo Alto County, Iowa. This will allow citizens to sign up for the types of alerts they would like to receive. Messages can be sent via landline or cell phone, text messaging and e-mail. Messages may contain photo, video, and audio attachments to help subscribers understand the situation at hand, or where to find additional information.- to sign up simple text 69310. At City Hall, we will be participating in the drill as well and will be working closely with our emergency management team to ensure that everything runs smoothly. We appreciate your cooperation and support during this time. Together, we can make City of Graettinger a safe and prepared community. Thanks, Brandon Armstrong- Mayor

Graettinger Iowa is a town that knows how to blend the practical with the whimsical. While most places have casual Fridays, Graettinger takes it up a notch with its annual “Drive your tractor to school day.” Yes, you heard that right! on a designated day each year, students swap their cars for trusty tractors and hit the road. The roots of this delightful tradition are traced back a lot of years, I can remember my grandfather, Bob Schany, telling us stories of him and his buddies continuing this tradition with their kids. Graettinger is nestled at the heart of Iowa’s agricultural landscape. Tractors are more than just vehicles here. There are symbols of hard work, community, and the rich farming heritage. So why I’m not celebrate them by driving to school? Today, students rose with the sun, put on a lot of layers and hopped on their trustee, red, white, green, and blue tractors. The streets came alive with the rhythmic hum of engines and the air smells faintly of diesel. It was a sight to behold. When the air warms up here this afternoon, they will take to the streets again. The camaraderie lingers- the shared experience of navigating traffic at a leisurely pace, the sun on their faces. It’s a day when Graettinger’s small town charm shines brightly. If you’re a Graettinger resident, mark your calendar for the next “drive your tractor to school day” And if your passing through, don’t be surprised to find yourself behind a John Deere or a vintage Farmall, honk wave and join the fun. Please visit the Graettinger web page for further announcements and like our Facebook page - keep the wheels turning and the spirit of community alive.

ON MARCH 11, 2024, THE OFFICE OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL RECEIVED A REQUEST PURSUANT TO IOWA CODE 100.40(1) (1995) FROM KAYLA HAGEN, REPRESENTING EACH FIRE DEPARTMENT HAVING ALL OR PART OF THEIR FIRE DISTRICT WITHIN PALO ALTO COUNTY, THAT THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL PROHIBIT OPEN BURNING IN PALO ALTO COUNTY. UPON INVESTIGATION THE FIRE MARSHAL FINDS THAT CONDITIONS IN PALO ALTO COUNTY ARE SUCH THAT OPEN BURNING CONSTITUTES A DANGER TO LIFE OR PROPERTY. IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED THAT NO PERSON SHALL ENGAGE IN OPEN BURNING IN PALO ALTO COUNTY, EFFECTIVE MARCH 11, 2024 AT 11:00 AM EXCEPT AS SPECIFICALLY PERMITTED BY IOWA CODE 100.40(3) UNTIL SUCH TIME AS KAYLA HAGEN, REPRESENTING EACH FIRE DEPARTMENT HAVING ALL OR PART OF THEIR FIRE DISTRICT WITHIN PALO ALTO COUNTY, NOTIFIES THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL THAT SUCH CONDITIONS DANGEROUS TO LIFE OR PROPERTY NO LONGER EXISTS. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT PURSUANT TO IOWA CODE 100.40(2) ANY VIOLATION OF THIS PROCLAMATION ORDER IS A SIMPLE MISDEMEANOR.

Happy National Pi Day! - FUN FACT OF THE DAY... Pi is a constant or "universal" number, which is a value that does not change no matter its circumstances. That means π is always equal to 3.14, more or less. After those three famous digits comes an endless "irrational" sequence without permanent patterns or repeating sections. Even though the sequence continues indefinitely, pi enthusiasts have made hobbies out of memorizing and reciting as many decimal places as possible. The Guinness World Record is 70,000. Now the real question ... who's going to make a pie tonight?

The City of Graettinger is excited to announce that they are hiring pool lifeguards for the 2024 season. If you're a strong swimmer and passionate about ensuring the safety of others, this could be a rewarding opportunity for you. The Graettinger swimming pool offers a zero entry pool, making it accessible for all ages. Families can enjoy the large, twisting slide while relaxing on hot summer days. Concessions are available, and swimming lessons are offered. If you're interested, please reach out to Staci Girres, our fabulous pool manager, for applications. Dive into a fulfilling summer job and contribute to the community's well-being. For more information, you can also contact City Hall at (712)859-3742 during office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM. Deadline to submit applications is March 27th.

Spring Cleanup! We appreciate your help in taking pride in our community and keeping our town clean. We would like to remind our neighbors about some common nuisances to address around town. Junk Vehicles: According to city ordinances, a junk vehicle is any motor vehicle or piece of machinery that is inoperable, such vehicles are considered a threat to the health and safety of the citizens and is a nuisance within the meaning of Section 657.1 of the Code of Iowa. If any junk or junk vehicle is kept upon private property in violation hereof, the owner of or person occupying the property upon which it is located shall be prima facie liable for said violation. The following characteristics are an example of junk and junk vehicle: Inoperative, broken glass, broken parts, flat or loose parts, these vehicles can become a habitat for animals or insects, said vehicle has not moved for 30days. Dogs are not to run at large. Vicious dogs are not allowed in the City and if your dog bites someone or is running at large you may be subject to medical bills for the injured party as well as fines from the City. If dogs are tied up, they need to be kept on your property not on public property (which includes sidewalks) or someone else’s property. Keep in mind even though you may know the animal, someone else may be intimidated by it. Also, a barking dog is considered a nuisance. This could be very bothersome to others that live in your neighborhood. Junk or stored items outside of your garage or home, like vehicles, these items can become residences for pests, Please dispose of properly -or store items inside your garage or home. The City of Graettinger will be assessing properties in the next couple months and courtesy letters will be mailed out. If said properties are not in compliance fines may be imposed. The intent is not to serve fines but rather to make our community one that we can all be proud to live in and enjoy. If individuals comply no further action will need to be taken. If fines apply, the first offense is $150 and up to $750 for second offense. A fine of $1,000 can be imposed for repeat offenders or offenders that do not keep their property cleaned. Please contact City Hall at 712-859-3742 if you have any questions. Thank you! If you see a neighbor that needs help, please be kind. Graettinger Tree Dump is available for our residents of Graettinger. Garbage tags are available for additional bags you may have, they are $3.00 each and are needed for Harris Sanitation pickup. The tags can be purchased here at City Hall.

Notice of Public Hearing for March 25, 2024 regarding Proposed Property Tax Levy for FY2024-25. Meeting will be held at City Hall 106 S. Cedar Graettinger ,IA at 6pm. At the public hearing any resident or taxpayer may present objections to, or arguments in favor of, any part of the proposed tax levy. After the hearing of the proposed tax levy, the City Council will publish notice and hold a hearing on the proposed city budget.

Thank you Palo Alto County Gaming Development Corporation !!

Thank you Palo Alto County Gaming Development Corporation !!

Thank you Palo Alto County Gaming Development Corporation !!

The City of Graettinger is pleased to announce that Teaner Hoffman has been appointed to the vacant city council seat, following Brandon Armstrong's election as Mayor. This appointment will fill the seat for the remainder of his term, ending in 2026. Teaner brings a wealth of experience and fresh perspectives to the table, and we have no doubt that she will serve the city with dedication and distinction. As a new member of the council, Teaner will have the opportunity to contribute to key decisions that will shape the future of Graettinger. Her appointment comes at a crucial time, as the city grapples with issues related to economic development, infrastructure improvements, and community engagement. The city council looks forward to working closely with Teaner to address these challenges and continue building on the progress made under the leadership of Mayor Armstrong. The community of Graettinger is fortunate to have such committed individuals serving in public office, and we offer our warmest congratulations to both Brandon Armstrong on his election as Mayor and Teaner on her appointment to the city council. We have full confidence that, together, they will work tirelessly to ensure that Graettinger continues to thrive and prosper in the years to come.

We heard snow is in the forecast this week .... maybe we can go sledding later! The City of Graettinger would like to remind everyone to not park vehicles on city streets during a snowstorm so we can accommodate our snow plow drivers. Our city workers do an amazing job keeping our streets cleared and appreciate your help at making their job a little easier.

Business Spotlight: Graettinger Market The Graettinger Market is run by the Graettinger Development Council. Shelly, the manager, and three other ladies run the Market themselves. Their dedication, creativity, and hard work are what truly set the Market apart from other grocery stores. The Market has hot meals every week which they start serving at 11 a.m., they are also available to do catering. In the corner of the Market they have a selection of wine and a wide variety of alcohol. The Market opens up at 8 a.m. everyday of the week, but Monday-Friday they close at 7 p.m., Saturday closes at 4 p.m., and Sunday closes at 12 p.m.. As you mingle among the stalls, you can't help but feel inspired by their infectious enthusiasm and contagious positivity. These fabulous ladies embody the spirit of Graettinger, and their presence transforms the city into a vibrant, joyful celebration of creativity and camaraderie. So come one, come all, and experience the magic of the Graettinger Market for yourself! You won't be disappointed.

Greetings, Graettinger citizens! As we look forward to another beautiful year in our charming community, it's time to remember to register your golf carts for 2024. Our quaint little town prides itself on its friendly atmosphere and safe streets, and having properly registered golf carts is an essential part of maintaining that. So, whether you're a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the joys of golf cart living, make sure to give your trusty steed a once-over and ensure it's in tip-top shape before hitting the road. Remember to renew your registration, or get your Graettinger golf cart license plate at city hall , we do require proof of insurance and a small registration fee. Remember you must have a valid drivers license to operate a golf cart on the streets of Graettinger. This small act of responsibility will help keep our streets safe and our community strong. And speaking of community, why not take advantage of the many social and recreational opportunities that owning a golf cart provides? From leisurely rides around town or joining the Hillcrest Golf Course, there's no better way to meet your neighbors and become an active part of Graettinger's vibrant social scene. So, gather your friends and family, hop on your golf cart, and let's make 2024 the best year yet!

As the warm breeze of spring begins to sweep through Graettinger, it's time for pet owners to remember an important task: renewing their 2024 cat and dog licenses. These licenses serve as your pet's identity tags, helping our city officials identify and return them to you in case they ever happen to get lost. It's a simple way to ensure that your furry friends remain safe and secure while exploring their favorite outdoor haunts. Not only does obtaining a license show your commitment to being a responsible pet owner, but it also helps fund vital services that benefit the entire community, such as animal control and care. The process is quick and easy, with licenses available at the City Hall during regular business hours. We'll issue your pet their new tags on the spot. Don't risk losing your beloved pet or facing unnecessary fines - renew your cat and dog licenses today! Your furry companions will thank you for the peace of mind that comes from knowing they're wearing their official Graettinger tags.

Dear Graettinger citizens, As we stride through the picturesque streets and trails that wind through our beautiful city, we can't help but feel a deep sense of pride and belonging. The lush greenery, the chirping birds, and the never ending wind all contribute to an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity that is unique to Graettinger. However, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that this harmony is preserved for generations to come. That's why we urge you to join us in respecting our community and following our Policies and Ordinances, including the ban on motorized vehicles on trails. This ordinance is not merely a set of rules; it's a symbol of our commitment to protecting the very essence of what makes Graettinger such a special place to live, work, and play. By abiding by these regulations, we are safeguarding the safety and enjoyment of all citizens, preserving the delicate ecosystems that surround our trails, and maintaining the charm and character of our city. So, next time you feel the urge to hop in your car, truck or motorized vehicle, we kindly ask that you reconsider your destination. Instead, why not explore our wonderful trails on foot, by horseback, or even by skateboard? There's no better way to truly appreciate the beauty of our city and connect with nature than by doing so under your own power. Together, we can ensure that Graettinger remains a shining example of how communities can thrive when they work together and respect one another. Thank you for your cooperation and support.

The City of Graettinger would like to wish Kyle Brown a very Happy Birthday! Kyle takes another turn around the sun on Jan 28! We hope all your Birthday wishes and dreams come true

The City of Graettinger would like to remind our citizens to get out in this heat wave and clean those sidewalks! We had a lot of snow recently, clearing your sidewalk of snow may take some time, but your future self will thank your present self if you start early. During winter, temperatures can rise above freezing during the day and melt snow away, then cool back down at night, creating an icy layer. Please be sure to check that sidewalks remain cleared of ice, as well as snow. If you’re able to, help out your neighbors and anyone who may need assistance, or help clear curb cuts and fire hydrants! if you need salt please see Pat at the Graettinger Hardware store here in town. Remember: for the safety of everyone in your neighborhood, sidewalks must be cleared within 24 hours of the snowstorm ending

The City of Graettinger would like to remind everyone to not park vehicles on city streets during a snowstorm so we can accommodate our snow plow drivers. Our city workers do an amazing job keeping our streets cleared and appreciate your help at making their job a little easier.

The City of Graettinger would like to express our sincere gratitude to our Graettinger City and Light Plant workers, Lisa, Al, Brad, Bryon, and Bruce, for your tireless efforts restoring power, removing snow, and everything in between to our community during recent snowfall and frigid temperatures. Your hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed, and i am grateful for everything you have done to keep us safe and comfortable during these cold winter months! Your commitment to our community is truly inspiring, and i am proud to be a part of a city that has such dedicated and hardworking individuals. Thank you for all you do, and please know your efforts are appreciated more than you can imaging. If you see these individuals around town, please give them a high five!