Council passes ordinance banning copter landings

RED OAK — While there may not be “no parking” signs posted, Red Oak’s city council passed an ordinance Aug. 17 prohibiting helicopters from landing inside the city limits.

City Administrator Brad Wright said he has fielded concerns regarding recent helicopter landings, including one in Legion Park a few months ago and another during RAGBRAI.

“There is no logical reason for a helicopter to be landing [in the city limits],” Wright said. “The landings have been continuing and I would like to see them stopped as soon as possible.”

Council members agreed entirely, and waved the required second and third readings so the bill could be enacted immediately.

The ban does not apply though to medical helicopters, which will still be allowed to land anywhere the pilot deems safe in order to respond to emergencies.

Also, at the meeting:

The council approved a request from Southwest Iowa Rural Water District to provide service to a residence located within two miles of the community. Rural water representative Kevin Gowing also informed the Council the district would be providing water purchased from Red Oak to the Hastings community. District employees will also be painting and maintaining their tower beginning next mont.

Wright informed the Council the Southwest Iowa Housing Trust Fund is applying for a $294,000 grant to improve housing opportunities in the region.

Wright also informed the council carpet and tile installation is underway in City Hall and the police department.

The Council agreed to next meet on Tuesday, Sept. 8, as their next scheduled meeting falls on Labor Day.