Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Dubuque public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues with low priority
Old Mill Road church building reuse
The 1874 former Rockdale church got rezoned to neighborhood commercial so its owners can save it from vacancy, with neighbors hoping for community-minded uses.
Bodenhofer Vehicle Damage Claim
The council denied a resident's claim for car damage caused during policing, saying the criminal suspect — not the city — is responsible, and suggested pushing the state to cover property damage through its crime victim compensation fund.
Levi and Sullivan storm sewer extension
A pilot project extending storm sewer to streets that never had it, fixing winter icing and sump pump issues using cheaper, stronger polypropylene pipe.
NICC Entrance Right-of-Way Vacation
A sliver of West 7th/Main Street right-of-way was vacated and sold to Northeast Iowa Community College for its building entrance improvements at 700 Main Street.
FY 2027 Budget Summary Brochure
The annual Dollars and Cents mailer shows no property tax rate increase, a budget 3.4% below last year, and Dubuque still holding the lowest property tax rate among Iowa cities over 50,000.
Road Salt Supply for Winter 2026-27
The city locked in its winter road salt supply at $567,138 to keep streets clear.
Workforce housing at 440 West 3rd Street
The council backed a state tax credit application to convert the crumbling first Mercy Hospital building into six apartments using historic tax credits.
Airport Taxiway A Federal Funding Boost
The FAA offered $2 million in extra federal money if Dubuque combines two taxiway phases — the local share drops to just 5%.