The Iola Public Works Committee approved new dedicated sewer funds, moved to seek bids for a replacement utility task vehicle and discussed infrastructure maintenance during its meeting June 11 at Iola Village Hall.

Committee members Mike Richberg, David Harper and Pamela Parks, joined by Public Works Director Edward Bonikowske, took several actions to strengthen the village’s sewer system finances. They voted to create a Sewer Relining Fund, allocating $15 per unit per quarter retroactive to the beginning of 2026. The committee also established a Sewer Equipment Replacement Fund, funded by revenue from septic haulers supplemented by transfers from the Sewer General Fund to reach $5,000 annually.

In a third sewer-related motion, the committee approved allocating $2,500 per quarter to repay an internal loan of $101,790 from the Sewer General Fund to the General Fund. All three motions passed unanimously.

The committee also directed staff to collect bids for a replacement UTV. Harper made the motion, which Parks seconded.

On other matters, Bonikowske reported obtaining a quote of $185 per hydrant from Ferguson Waterworks for repainting fire hydrants and said an inventory of units needing work would come to the next meeting. Richberg updated the group on his discussions with Noah Swenson about options for tree clean-up on the north side of the river.

Clerk/Treasurer Laura J. Krogwold provided an update on delinquent utilities. Two shutoffs occurred for unpaid bills, both of which were resolved after payment. The total amount owed in delinquent utilities stood at $54,435.22.

Richberg called the meeting to order at 9 a.m. and adjourned it at 10:08 a.m.