Two Newton City Council members say the issuance of $6-million in General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds this spring to fund for various projects, ongoing initiatives, and equipment and vehicle purchases will be impactful and help the community grow. At-Large Councilman Joel Mills also believes it’s something a lot of cities are not financially able to do.

“This is a treat. To be able to work up here with all the department heads under the direction of City Administrator Matt Muckler. I think this city is truly doing outstanding work and I applaud everybody. Sincerely…thank you.”

Third Ward Councilman Stacy Simbro sees the $6-million dollars as an investment in Newton’s growth.

“Just that investing forward. We have to have that. We want to be a community people want to move to and live in.”

Newton City Administrator Matt Muckler and Finance Officer Lisa Frasier have both stated the borrowing will not impact the City’s property tax levy now or in the future. The 2026 levy is going to be the same as the current fiscal year, and remain at $17.10 per $1,000 of valuation. Some projects and purchases the General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds would pay for include $955,000 in downtown street improvements, a $700,000 Stormwater Project at First Avenue East and East 12th Street, $430,000 to asphalt overlay various streets, and $360,000 for the purchase of an ambulance for the fire department.