Press Release - 2024

December 11, 2024 - Urbandale Cemetery Selected for National Wreath Event

City of Urbandale’s McDivitt Grove Cemetery is an official location for the 2024 National Wreaths Across America Day. Community members are invited to help lay more than 100 wreaths on the headstones of Veterans laid to rest in the cemetery. The cemetery joins more than 3,100 participating locations across the country.

The wreath-laying event will take place at McDivitt Grove Cemetery on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 10 AM. All community members are invited to attend and help place more than 100 wreaths on the headstones of veterans laid to rest at the cemetery. This event is free and open to everyone.

The annual event—which takes place nationally—brings the community together to help ensure that the people who served our country will never be forgotten. The cemetery is located at 7001 Meredith Drive, in Urbandale. Overflow parking is available at New Hope Church, 4425 70th Street, located just south of the cemetery. Limited parking is available at the cemetery for persons with disabilities.

December 3, 2024 - Urbandale Announces New City Manager

Urbandale’s Mayor and City Council have selected Mr. David Jones, currently the City Manager in Ankeny, to become Urbandale’s next City Manager. This past summer, the City of Urbandale launched a nationwide search to replace the current City Manager A.J. Johnson, who is retiring at the end of this year. That search process yielded over 40 candidates from 19 different states.
 
“David is highly respected throughout the central Iowa region,” said Mayor Bob Andeweg. “With an impressive track record in strengthening financial conditions, overseeing transformative infrastructure projects, and driving economic development, he is uniquely qualified to lead our community into the future.”
 
Jones has over 25 years of local government management experience, receiving a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications from Kennesaw State University in Georgia.
 
“I am excited about the opportunity to serve as Urbandale’s next City Manager,” said David Jones. “I have been very impressed with the entire Urbandale team during the recruitment process. I look forward to working with Mayor Andeweg, the City Council, staff, and community to build upon the organization’s long history of success.”
 
Jones will start his new role with the City of Urbandale on Monday, January 27, 2025. The Urbandale City Council will formally consider Mr. Jones’ employment agreement at an upcoming Council Meeting.

November 20, 2024 - Urbandale Fire Station Open House Celebration

The City of Urbandale saved taxpayers more than $1 million and is hosting a special event to celebrate. The celebration will feature a bond-cutting ceremony and tours of Fire Station 42. Community members are also invited to contribute letters or drawings for inclusion in a time capsule, which will be opened in the year 2074.

Join a special open house celebration marking the early retirement of the bonds used to finance the construction of Urbandale’s Fire Station. The event will take place on Saturday, November 23, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Fire Station 42, located at 3927 121st Street, Urbandale. 

Thanks to careful financial planning, Urbandale was able to pay off the bonds ahead of schedule, saving taxpayers over $1 million in interest costs. This milestone demonstrates the City’s dedication to using financial resources responsibly and efficiently.

The event will include a range of activities, with a short program starting at 11:15 AM:

  • Bond-Cutting Ceremony: Mayor Bob Andeweg will symbolically rip up a ceremonial bond to commemorate the City’s achievement.
  • Help push Urbandale’s brand-new ladder truck into the station.
  • Station Tours: Explore the station and view the trench rescue trailer and training area.
  • Time Capsule Collection: Community members are invited to contribute letters or drawings for inclusion in a time capsule that will be buried at the station.

The event is open to the public and firehouse chili will be available with donations benefitting Children's Cancer Connections.

August 27, 2024 - New DART Art Shelters in Urbandale Enhancing Rider Experience

The City of Urbandale, Urbandale Public Art Committee, and the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) have completed the installation of two new DART art shelters in Urbandale. A ribbon cutting will be held on Tuesday, September 3, at 5:15 PM at Urbandale City Hall. Urbandale Mayor Robert Andeweg, DART CEO Amanda Wanke, artist Maddy Fusco, and Urbandale Public Art Committee members will deliver remarks.

The Urbandale art shelters are part of a larger effort by DART to improve transit accessibility and enhance the rider experience by incorporating public art into bus shelters throughout its service area. Art shelters have already been installed in the cities of Ankeny, Johnston and Windsor Heights, as well as the 6th Avenue Corridor, Drake neighborhood, Roosevelt Cultural District, and along Ingersoll Avenue in Des Moines. The Urbandale shelters are located at 3310 86th Street (next to City Hall) and 8301 NW Aurora Avenue (next to Gloria Dei Church).

“DART is excited to bring its art shelter program to Urbandale to enhance transit accessibility and celebrate the unique identity of this community,” said Matthew Harris, DART's Business & Community Partnerships Manager.

The Urbandale Public Art Committee commissioned Iowa artist Maddy Fusco, and Portland, OR artist Tyler Boeyink, to create artwork for the two art shelters. Both artists incorporated recognizable landmarks and amenities from Urbandale and Iowa into their designs in their own distinct and creative way.

“These artists have each brought a whimsical piece of new public art to Urbandale. They encompass what is unique about Urbandale and Iowa all at once.  Every time I look at them, I see something new. I'm hopeful it will bring joy and draw a smile on the faces of those who see it up close”, said Urbandale Public Art Committee Chair Rob Hilbert.

More information on public art at DART is available at ridedart.com/publicart. For information about DART services, schedules, route changes, or directions to the nearest DART stop, visit the website at ridedart.com or call 515-283-8100.

August 23, 2024 - City Manager A.J. Johnson Announces Retirement After Nearly 15 Years of Service

A.J. Johnson, Urbandale’s City Manager since 2009, has officially announced his retirement, effective at the end of the calendar year 2024. Under Johnson’s leadership, Urbandale’s growth and development continued westward, with the city’s population expanding from about 39,000 residents in 2009 to more than 47,000 residents today.

Before joining the City of Urbandale, Johnson built a distinguished career in public administration, holding key positions in several communities:

  • Sidney, Ohio: Assistant to/Assistant City Manager (1981-1985)
  • Montevideo, Minnesota: City Manager (1985-1989)
  • Muscatine, Iowa: City Administrator (1989-2009)

“I’ve been hinting at retirement for so long that I’m surprised it’s still news,” said A.J. Johnson. “I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family and enjoying the community I’ve had the privilege to serve.”

The announcement of Johnson’s retirement comes as the City begins its recruitment efforts to identify the next City Manager, a role that has been held by just two individuals over the past 40 years—Johnson, who served for nearly 15 years, and Bob Layton, who served for 25 years. Johnson’s service to Iowa's cities dates back to 1989 and he is the second-longest-serving City Manager in the metro area, with only Steve Schainker of Ames having served longer. The new City Manager will be responsible for continuing to help guide Urbandale’s future.

“A.J. Johnson has been a steady hand at the helm of Urbandale for nearly 15 years,” said Mayor Bob Andeweg. “His commitment to our community is evident in the numerous accomplishments during his tenure.  Through his leadership over the years with many changes and challenges along the way, Urbandale is well-positioned for a very bright future.”

Education, Background, and Personal Life

Johnson is a proud product of the Des Moines Public School System and a 1975 graduate of Theodore Roosevelt High School. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Wartburg College in 1979 and his Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Drake University in 1981.

During his tenure, Johnson oversaw major improvements in public safety, such as the establishment of Fire Station 43 and the strengthening of collaborative agreements with neighboring cities to boost service delivery and make local government more efficient. He also oversaw the accreditation for both the Police and Fire Departments, furthering Urbandale’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards in public safety.

A.J. Johnson and his wife, Christy, have been married for 44 years. Christy, a retired public educator of 40 years, and A.J. are proud parents to two sons, Alec and Brandt, and doting grandparents to two grandsons, Asher and Austin.

July 2, 2024 - Urbandale Adopts New Flag

The City of Urbandale has a new symbol of pride and unity, as the City Council officially adopted the new City flag during tonight’s Council Meeting. Featuring six bold U's in light blue and white intertwined to form a star on a dark blue field, the flag embodies the community’s values and vision for the future.

The flag’s design is rich with symbolism. The light blue and white U's represent stability and peace, echoing Urbandale's legacy colors. These U's, forming a star, symbolize the unity of people, natural resources, businesses, schools, transportation, and local government. The two colors of the U's represent the two counties where Urbandale is expanding. The bright star against the dark blue sky represents a firework from Urbandale's Independence Day celebration and is a bold statement about a positive future for the community.

"This flag is not just a symbol; it's a declaration of Urbandale’s bright and bold future,” said Mayor Bob Andeweg. “It’s a striking emblem that will inspire and unite our community for generations to come."

A Flag Design Committee, including Mayor Andeweg, Councilmember Rozendaal, and Urbandale residents, facilitated a comprehensive design process. Over 440 submissions were reviewed, and community input played a crucial role in selecting the final design. The top five designs were then rated by community members, leading to the selection of the final design.

The final design was refined with guidance from the North American Vexillological Association and flag fabric manufacturers, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and practicality.

Mayor Andeweg added, "This flag represents the collaborative effort of our residents and the pride we all share in our city."

Residents can purchase flag merchandise available at Urbandale City Hall, 3600 86th Street. Options include 3’ x 5’ flags, 2’ x 3’ flags, ceramic mugs, T-shirts, stickers, and mini flags. Learn more at www.Urbandale.org/flag.

August 20, 2024 - Urbandale Fire Department Achieves International Accreditation, Elevating Public Safety Standards

The Urbandale Fire Department has achieved Accredited Agency status with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI), joining the ranks of only seven fire departments in the state of Iowa to earn this recognition. Urbandale now stands alongside Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Dubuque, Iowa City, Sioux City, and West Des Moines Fire Departments – exceeding more than 250 national standards and best practices in fire service.

The path to accreditation involves a comprehensive evaluation of the department’s operations, from emergency response times to community risk reduction programs. The accreditation was formally presented to the Mayor and City Council during tonight’s City Council Meeting.

“The Fire Department’s accreditation is a proud moment for Urbandale,” said Mayor Bob Andeweg. “Our residents are receiving top-tier emergency services, making Urbandale a safer place to live and work.”

The Urbandale Fire Department has not only met the CFAI’s stringent criteria but has also implemented processes to continuously measure and improve its performance. Seven years ago, emergency response times in western Urbandale were over 10 minutes. By strategically placing Station 43 at 152nd Street and Meredith Drive in 2020, Urbandale reduced that time to 7 minutes and 36 seconds. The City has also refined its community risk reduction programs, now better targeting at-risk populations to enhance safety across the community. 

“This accreditation is a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and professionalism of our entire City,” said Mike Cardwell, Fire Chief/Emergency Preparedness Director. “It reflects our commitment to continuous improvement and ensures that we are delivering the highest quality service to our community.”

June 19, 2024 - City Council Approves Urbandale Downtown Master Plan Initiative

Last night, the Urbandale City Council approved a master planning initiative to transform downtown Urbandale. Stemming from the Forward Urbandale Comprehensive Plan adopted last December, this plan aims to breathe new life into the downtown area, making it a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike. This decision marks a significant step forward in implementing the Forward Urbandale Comprehensive Plan and the City Council’s strategic plan.

The Urbandale Downtown Master Plan aims to transform the downtown area into a vibrant destination that attracts investment in both commercial and residential buildings. It is designed to make Urbandale’s downtown a focal point for the community and a draw for visitors from across the metro area. Key aspects of the plan include enhancing the area’s accessibility and navigability for pedestrians and all modes of transportation.

This planning initiative is expected to finish by mid-2025, with input from downtown stakeholders and the wider community.

“Urbandale’s Downtown Master Plan is a pivotal project that will guide our efforts to revitalize the downtown area,” said A.J. Johnson, City Manager. “We’re building on the public and private investments where our community first had its start.”

The Forward Urbandale Comprehensive Plan identified downtown Urbandale, along with Douglas Avenue/Parkway and the Northpark and Plum Drive corridors, as focus areas requiring further study and strategic direction. The plan emphasizes three primary focus areas: land use and development opportunity sites, sense of place, and access and mobility. 

“Stakeholders in the downtown Urbandale area are seeking forward momentum,” said Aaron DeJong, Economic Development Director. “Everyone is eager to see a transformation that will bring more businesses, housing, and amenities to the area. This master plan will outline how the City will assist in the effort.”

The Forward Urbandale Comprehensive Plan provides a broader context for this initiative. The plan sets the direction for the next decade and beyond, focusing on environmental stewardship, community health and wellness, and inclusivity. This Downtown Master Plan is a key step in realizing those goals and enhancing the quality of life for residents. For more information on the Forward Urbandale Comprehensive Plan, please visit https://www.urbandale.org/1218/Comprehensive-Plan.

May 28, 2024 - Mosquito Control Program to Begin in June

Mosquito spraying in Urbandale neighborhoods is scheduled to begin in the month of June, weather permitting, and continue until Fall or when mosquito population thresholds are no longer exceeded. City staff will be treating area neighborhoods with EPA-approved mosquito control product between the hours of 9:00 PM to 5 AM.

Spraying will be done with City of Urbandale trucks, weather permitting, with no rain or winds over 10 miles per hour. All City trucks are white, with a blue diamond Urbandale logo, and will have an amber warning light blinking to alert residents that City staff are in the area.

While spraying reduces the mosquito population, it is still recommended that residents use mosquito repellent when outside early in the morning and late in the evening. You can do your part in the battle against mosquitos by eliminating sources of standing water such as disposing of old tires, any type of containers that collect and hold water, and maintaining gutters. Pet dish and bird bath water should be changed every two days.

City staff follows the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommended label rates of application and procedure for this product.  

New residents, residents with apiaries, or pollinator gardens that would like to opt-out of mosquito spraying near their home should e-mail their name and address to Scott Hock, Assistant Director of Parks, Recreation, and Facilities at shock@urbandale.org. If you have called in before to ask to be placed on the no treatment list, we will still not treat in your immediate area. Residents with any questions concerning this program should contact the Urbandale Parks & Recreation Department at 515-331-6799.

May 22, 2024 - Debris Clean Up Beginning Immediately for Urbandale Residents

Curbside collection of storm-related tree damage and vegetation will begin immediately. Residents can take advantage of this no-charge collection by placing materials at the curb prior to Tuesday, May 28, 2024. Please follow these guidelines to ensure your items are collected: 

  • Tree branches must be placed on City right-of-way parallel to the curb. The placement of branches in the same direction as the street and/or sidewalk allows mechanical equipment to load the material efficiently and minimize damage to the right-of-way. Crews will not be collecting material that is on private property. 
  • Branches cannot exceed 18 inches in diameter. 
  • Branches cannot exceed 12 feet in length. 
  • Residents are encouraged to utilize the Metro Waste Authority Compost-It! program for smaller debris that is typically handled by this program. 
  • Garden vegetation and incidental trimming and branches from trees not damaged from the storm should not be placed out for collection. 
  • Tree branches should not be placed near fire hydrants, mailboxes, utilities, or any other item in the right-of-way which could be damaged by equipment during the collection. 
  • No tree material from work done by private contractors should be placed on the right-of-way for collection. Contractors are required to haul away any tree debris that is a result of their work. 
  • For questions about this one-time special collection, please contact us at 515-278-3950.

Was your home or property damaged during the storm? Let us know by e-mailing communications@urbandale.org. We're tracking the damage in our community to gather information for an incident report, and your responses could help quantify possible assistance that the community would need from State/Federal agencies.

May 10, 2024 - Urbandale Embraces Sustainability, Completes Solar Panel Project

The City of Urbandale took a significant step towards sustainability this week, with the completion of a state-of-the-art solar panel array system on top of the City’s Parks & Public Works Maintenance Facility, located at 9401 Hickman Road.

The $500,000 solar panel project represents a substantial investment in the city's renewable energy future. The 225-kilowatt system not only contributes to reducing reliance on fossil fuels, but also positions Urbandale as a leader in renewable energy adoption among municipalities in the Des Moines metropolitan area.

The decision to embrace solar power aligns with Urbandale’s broader sustainability goals. By prioritizing renewable energy sources, Urbandale reaffirms its commitment to building a more environmentally conscious community for all residents.

The installation of solar panels on the new Parks & Public Works Maintenance Facility represents just one facet of Urbandale's ongoing efforts to embrace sustainability and combat climate change. As the city continues to explore innovative solutions to environmental challenges, residents can expect further initiatives aimed at promoting a cleaner, greener future.

April 5, 2024 - Urbandale Flag Designs Shared for Community Review and Rating

Urbandale residents are once again invited to participate in the process to design and adopt a new flag for Urbandale. After a thorough review and selection process, the Flag Design Committee is excited to present the top five designs to the community for review, feedback and rating.

These five flags represent the culmination of months of collaboration and creativity from students, residents, historians, and design experts. Each design embodies the rich history, values, and aspirations of the Urbandale community.

An online survey for residents to review the flag designs and provide feedback is now open. The survey period will close at noon on Monday, April 22, 2024. This feedback will play a crucial role in determining the flag that will ultimately represent Urbandale for generations to come.

The survey is accessible through the city's official website, social media channels, and at City Hall. For more information and to access the survey, please visit www.Urbandale.org/flag.

"Our flag is a symbol of our identity and unity as a city,” said Mayor Bob Andeweg. “I encourage all residents to participate in this important process and help us choose a flag that reflects who we are."

Over 430 flag design submissions were received between October 2023 and January 2024. A committee of Urbandale residents, the Mayor, a Councilmember, and staff helped guide the project process. The five flags presented for the community’s rating were determined by the Mayor and City Council. The new flag will be unveiled at the Mayor's State of the City Address on Thursday, June 27, 2024.

February 7, 2024 - All Urbandale Reads Returns with Gripping WWII Tale

The All Urbandale Reads program is a “one book, one community” reading initiative that encourages all Urbandale citizens to read and discuss the same book. The goal of All Urbandale Reads is to unite the community and promote literacy through one inspiring read. All Urbandale Reads feature book discussions and a program or two related to themes found in the selected book. The title selected by the committee for 2024 is The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah. 

In addition to two community book discussions, the library will host author Linda McCann in May, who will share about Rosie the Riveters in Iowa, based on her most recent research. The series will conclude in September with author William B. Friedricks, whose true account of the life of Celia Karp Biniaz is chronicled in Saved By Schindler.

Those who attend any All Urbandale Reads event in 2024 can enter our prize drawing for a hardcover copy of the novel, signed by the author. 

The All Urbandale Reads program is sponsored by the Library Foundation, whose generous support provides multiple copies of the title for library cardholders to check out, as well as covering the costs for speakers.

Visit our website for more details www.urbandalelibrary.org/all-urbandale-reads or sign up for the library’s newsletter for the latest updates.

January 12, 2024 - Urbandale’s Plowing Operations Suspended

Due to the high winds and significant drifting, the City of Urbandale will be suspending plowing operations at 7:00 PM tonight, Friday, January 12, and resuming tomorrow morning on Saturday, January 13, at 5:00 AM. Snow removal operations have been adversely affected by the sustained high winds. Plowing will resume when it is anticipated that wind conditions will be more favorable. For more information visit: www.Urbandale.org/snow.