Building & Neighborhood Services - Animal Control
There are many everyday supplies that the shelter needs to help keep the animals clean and content. The following is a list of suggestions. If you have something but are not sure if it could be used, please call the shelter at (641) 424-6508.
- old washable rugs or toilet covers
- cat condos
- gentle lead leashes
- kennels, large inside or outside
- dog chew toys
- cat play toys
- stiff cleaning brushes to scrub cages
- Volunteers to help out at Petco. Call the shelter for details.
- Volunteers to walk the dogs and play and brush the cats.
Yes, all animals must be on a leash that is no longer than 6 feet when being walked on public property.
We have a list and when one becomes available, we notify you. The deposit is $55.00 in the form of a check. This is returned on return of the trap.
If your cat/dog is spayed/neutered: $5.00 per year.
If your animal is unaltered: $25.00 per year.
Proof rabies vaccination and proof of the spay/neuter must be presented before obtaining your license.
No, Federal and state laws prohibit owning/keeping any type of wildlife.
If the bat is found in the room of a sleeping person, contact Animal Control or the Police Department. If the bat is any other room of the residence, remove the bat either by yourself or call an exterminator. Check and seal up cracks that they may be entering from. Also, oil of wintergreen is a possible repellent to the bat. You mix it 4 parts water to one part oil. Then spray it in the areas you have seen the bat.
DO NOT handle the bat without putting gloves on.
Not at this time.
Our policy is that the cat must be confined before we will come out to catch a cat. This can be done by placing them in a carrier, box, or within porch. If the cat is wild, then we recommend trapping the cat with the use of a live humane trap. There are some available through our department or your can purchase one from stores in town.
Licenses can be purchases from the Mason City veterinary clinics: Animal Medical Hospital, Pioneer Animal Hospital, and Garner Veterinary Clinic. You may also get your license at the City Clerk's Office located in City Hall, 10 1st NW, Mason City, Iowa.
Building & Neighborhood Services - Inspection Services
Once a permit is issued, construction must commence within 180 days and is valid for 12 months from the date of issuance. The Chief Building Official, if requested, may grant an extension.
Cost of a building permit is proportional to the dollar value of your project.
In addition to the completed application form, you must also submit a graphic representation of your project. The construction drawings or plans must show all proposed work and detail for compliance with all building codes and zoning ordinances that apply to you project. The drawings may be required to be stamped and sealed by a professional architect or engineer.
The type and number of inspections depends on the project, the following are required:
· Footing and setback inspection before concrete is poured
· Foundation inspection before concrete is poured and backfilled
· Framing rough-in-inspection before insulation or drywall
· Electrical rough-in inspection before insulation or drywall
· Plumbing rough-in inspection before insulation or drywall
· Final inspections must be made on heating, electrical, plumbing, as well as the building. Some of these inspections can be combined. When you are ready for an inspection call 641-421-3620 and provide your name, the project address, and the type of inspection requested. 24 hours notice is preferred to schedule an inspection.
Construction is not allowed until you have obtained the proper permit(s). Once all the necessary application & drawings have been submitted, it will take the building department approximately 5 business days to review residential applications and 10 to 30 days to review commercial/industrial applications. Once the application has been reviewed, processed, approved, and all the fees have been submitted, the permit will be ready to issue.
Permits for building, moving, demolition, signs, and encroachments can be applied for at the Building Inspection Division located on the third floor of City Hall, 10 1st St. NW, Mason City, IA
A building permit is a license that grants legal permission to start construction of a building project.
For residential, commercial and industrial projects a building permit is required for any construction that physically changes or adds structure to your property or for work regulated by city codes or ordinances. Interior remodel, re-roof, re-side, swimming pools that exceed 5,000 gallons, fences over 6’ in height, signs, moving and demolitions. It is recommended that you contact the Building Inspection Services Division, 3rd Floor – City Hall, 10 1st Street NW, Mason City, IA 50401 or call (641-421-3620) about any code requirements before you finalize your plans.
NOTE: Separate plumbing, electrical and mechanical permits are required for such items as: hot water heaters, water softeners, wood burners, fireplaces, rewires, central air conditioning units, and signs.
Building & Neighborhood Services - Neighborhood Services
Neighborhood Association is a voluntary organization of residents who work together to improve and maintain their quality of life. They differ from Homeowner’s Associations in that they are voluntary.
Associations can form out of concern over safety, a particular issue, a desire to enhance a sense of community and caring for others, a need to have organized input into city decision-making. They are either formed by citizens acting on their own or at the request or suggestion of government. Mary cities view neighborhood associations as a means of solving problems at the grassroots level, encouraging citizen involvement, providing a vital link to City Hall, and providing an environment for the development of future civic leaders.
Neighborhood associations are a great way to involve affected citizens in the decisions at the front end, rather than late in the process and only after citizens feel threatened. It is an excellent mechanism for communicating with the greatest number of people. Associations can be a training ground for new leadership and talent, and they can create a more caring and sharing community.
Building & Neighborhood Services - Transit
Adult & Student $.50, Monthly bus passes or tokens available at City Hall.
6:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (except Saturdays, Sundays and same holidays).
City Administrator
Monday and Tuesday pick-up days will be the Wednesday immediately following the holiday; Thursday and Friday pick-up days will be the Wednesday immediately preceding the holiday.
An easy way to remember the collection schedule: the pick-up day will be the Wednesday of the same week as the holiday.
Yes, tours are offered through the City Clerk's office at City Hall. You may call (641) 421-3600 during regular City Hall business hours to set up a tour for your group.
You may contact the City Water Utility Division at (641) 421-3612 to obtain information about water and recycling services. The office is located on the 1st Floor at City Hall, 10 First Street NW.
A copy of the certificate can be obtained through the County Recorder's office at the Cerro Gordo County Courthouse, located at 220 N. Washington Avenue in Mason City. Their phone number is (641) 421-3056.
Title 9, Chapter 10A of the City Code outlines the provisions of the alternate side parking ordinance. Alternate side parking will be placed in effect and removed by the City Administrator as deemed necessary. Citizens are asked to check the City’s website home page or turn to local news media for the status of the ordinance.
In the event the alternate side parking ordinance is in effect, the following provisions shall apply.
- Parking shall be permitted on the odd numbered side of the street on odd numbered days of the month.
- Parking shall be permitted on the even numbered side of the street on even numbered days of the month.
- People moving their vehicle(s) from one side of the street to the other side must do it between 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. the night before.
- On cul-de-sacs bearing consecutive numbers, parking is prohibited according to the schedule for the street to which it connects.
- During alternate side parking, signs prohibiting parking at all times on one entire side of the street only shall not be enforced and alternate side parking regulations shall be in effect.
- Alternate side parking regulations shall have no effect on streets where parking is prohibited on both sides.
- Alternate side parking regulations do not apply to U.S. Highway 122 and U.S. Highway 65 south of 8th Street South and north of Fifth Street North, nor to the business district. Business district is defined as the area bounded by and including all streets between Connecticut Avenue on the east, Jefferson Avenue on the west, Fourth Street South on the south, and Fifth Street North on the north. (Exception: Parking shall be permitted within 100 feet of the main entrance of a commercial business location on the side adjacent to the building during regular business hours.)
This notice is not intended to be a comprehensive review of the city ordinance regarding alternate side parking. Contact the Street Division at (641) 421-3675 or the Police Department at (641) 421-3636 with any questions.
The Public Works Department also asks that parents not allow children to play in piles of snow along the curb. Children are known to have been killed and injured by snow removal equipment. At best it is difficult for the snowplow operators to see.
Thank you in advance to all the citizens of Mason City as we anticipate the winter weather.
The Iowa State Patrol offers a toll free road report line at (800) 288-1047. There is also a web site you can log on to at
www.iowaroadconditions.org. This service is updated as often as possible during bad weather.
City Council meetings are held the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7:00 p.m. The meetings are held in the Mason City Room of the Public Library located at 225 2nd Street SE in Mason City. Citizens may watch the City Council meetings live on Cable Channel 4, and rebroadcast daily at 1:00 a.m., 7:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
The exception is if a major holiday falls on the Tuesday of scheduled meeting, in which case the meeting will be held the Wednesday following the holiday.
Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. except on major holidays. Major holidays are:
New Year's Day in January
President's Day in February
Good Friday in March or April
Memorial Day in May
Independence Day in July
Labor Day in September
Veteran's Day in November
Thanksgiving Day and the following Friday in November
Christmas Day in December
For actual dates of the holiday, make-up sanitation dates and if transit buses are running on the holiday, refer to the Holidays page.
The Iowa Department of Transportation offers applications and testing for new and renewing driver's licenses at 1622 S. Federal Avenue. Their phone number is (641) 423-8391.
Motor vehicles are licensed through Cerro Gordo County. You may call the Cerro Gordo County Treasurer's office, Vehicle Registration Division at (641) 421-3126.
City Clerk
The phone number for the Cerro Gordo County Clerk of Court is (641) 424-6431.
City Council meetings are held the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7:00 p.m. The meetings are held in the Mason City Room of the Public Library located at 225 2nd Street SE in Mason City. Citizens may watch the City Council meetings live on Cable Channel 4, and rebroadcast daily at 1:00 a.m., 7:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
The exception is if a major holiday falls on the Tuesday of scheduled meeting, in which case the meeting will be held the Wednesday following the holiday.
Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery
Elmwood - St. Joseph has burial records dating back to the late 1800's. Some of the record include the cause of death and family information. Obituaries dating back to 1938 are also available. You can
email the office and the receive information or stop by the office and enjoy the process of searching our records.
Yes, send an
email with name of the person and the grounds staff will straighten the monument or marker. They also raise markers that have settled too far into the ground and straighten vases that have shifted due to the freezing and thawing of the ground.
You can
email the office with the name of the person you are wanting to locate and the cemetery staff will email you a map of the approximate location. You can also visit the office between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to receive personal assistance.
Yes. Both Elmwood and St. Joseph Cemeteries were deeded to the City of Mason City in 1949 and it became one.
- Flowers (either live or artificial) in oblong metal, wood or plastic boxes or receding vases may remain on graves at all times.
- Size of boxes not to exceed 36" or a combination of 36" long by 8" wide.
- One Container to each grave.
- Other decorations may be placed for Memorial Day and remain until June 10.
- Winter decorations may be placed between November 1 until April 1.
Engineering
No.
Submit a petition form to the Engineering Department. The form is obtained at the Engineering Department.
Yes, Iowa One Call @ 1-800-292-8989.
Right-of-way is normally the property from the back of the sidewalk to the center of the street. The right-of-way belongs to the City.
Sewer, Water, Septic permits - Repair work, New or Disconnect Sidewalk, Approach, Curb Cuts, Monitoring Wells in the right of way Oversize loads on City Streets .
Submit a petition form to the City Clerk. The form is obtained at the City Clerk's office.
Finance
Revenues from the sales and service tax are to be allocated in the City of Mason City as follows:
Fifty percent (50%) of said revenues shall be used directly for property tax relief and for no other purpose.
The specific purposes for which the revenues shall otherwise be expended are:
Forty percent (40%) of said revenues shall be used for street improvements such as surfacing/resurfacing, railroad crossing repair, overpass/underpass construction, bridge repair, storm sewer work, traffic signals installation and maintenance, public parking maintenance, city owned sidewalk repairs, park improvements and any other lawful use such as the retirement of debt incurred for such projects.
Ten percent (10%) of said revenues shall be used for the General Fund for any legal city purpose such as police protection, fire protection, library services, recreation programs, projects, airport, transit services, museum, and administrative purposes.
- January 1 City department heads give budget and proposals to city finance officer.
- January 14 (and February 4) Budget work session(s) with finance office and city council.
- February 18 Council receives and adopts final proposed budget and orders notice of hearing. - February 21 Notice of hearing on adoption of final budget published.
- March 4 Budget hearing held.
- March 4 Adoption of final budget is made.
- March 15 Certified budget due to county auditor.
- March 25 Final day for persons affected by the budget to file a written protect (10 days after certification date).
- June 15 IDOM certified taxes back to county auditor.
- July 1 Budget takes effect.
Notice Requirement: Notice of the budget hearing must be given not more than 20 days, nor less than 10 days before the date of the hearing.
Detailed Budget: The detailed budget must be available for public inspection at least 10 days before the final budget hearing and 20 days before final date for certification, and is to be available at the clerk’s and mayor’s offices and the public library, or posted at three places designated by ordinance if there is no library.
Warrants/claims are process every Thursday and released after council meets the first and third Tuesday of each month.
Fire Department
There is no open burning of yard waste allowed within City limits. A variance may be applied for if you have a property lot of 24,000 square feet or larger (generally the size of about 3 standard City lots).
Recreational fires are allowed in Mason City without a permit. A recreational fire:
- Cannot be used to burn refuse (including yard waste such as leaves or small branches) – only untreated firewood may be burned.
- Must be attended to at all times with basic extinguishment tools at hand (fire extinguisher, garden hose, sand, shovel, etc.).
- Is allowed between the hours of Noon and Midnight.
- Does not have to be in a commercial fire pit, fire place or chiminea.
Residents are encouraged to inform themselves of all of the
provisions and rules for recreational and cooking fires within the City's limits. Anyone with questions regarding recreational fires is encouraged to contact the Fire Department.
If the ionization or photoelectric smoke detectors in your home currently meet all the manufacturer's recommendations, you are not required to replace them with dual-sensor detectors before April 1, 2010. However, when you have a detector that needs to be replaced, it must be replaced with a dual-sensor detector after April 1, 2010. Of course, if you are replacing smoke detectors before April 1, 2010, the Mason City Fire Department recommends you select a dual-sensor detector.
Class I (gasoline) or Class II (diesel fuel & kerosene) cannot be dispensed into portable containers unless the container is designed and marked for gasoline or other flammable liquids, has a tight closure and is fitted with a spout or designed so that the contents can be poured without spilling.
Acceptable containers may be constructed of metal or plastic, have a volume of 5 gallons or less and must bear an Underwriters Laboratory (UL) or other accepted testing agency label verifying the container is listed to contain flammable or combustible liquids.
No sale or purchase of any Class I or Class II liquids can be made in containers unless such containers are clearly marked with the name of the product they contain.
Flammable and combustible liquids cannot be dispensed into portable tanks or cargo tanks. Cargo tanks and portable tanks must be filled at bulk plants or terminals.
New construction and major remodeling projects require permitting through the City's Inspection Services. However, specific permits for fire protection systems are not required through the Mason City Fire Department. There is no charge for the Fire Marshal’s review of construction documents and plans and approval of fire protection systems within the City’s limits.
The Fire Department used to make and have available to the public wooden drain plugs to use during wet seasons to keep floor drains from overflowing. Now, better plastic drain plugs are available at a reasonable cost at most hardware and home improvement stores. The Fire Department no longer has the equipment to make these drain plugs. Of course, the best time to buy a drain plug is when you don’t need one.
The Mason City Fire Department will gladly file with all commercial nsurances. It is an authorized provider for Medicare, Iowa Medicaid and Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Mason City Fire Department is dedicated to provide quality emergency ambulance services to all persons regardless of social or economical status. However, the Mason City Fire Department cannot negotiate its rates with individuals nor does it have the ability to provide charity services.
Yes. The Fire Marshal reviews and approves all sprinkler and fire alarm systems in new construction or major remodeling projects within the City limits. Construction documents would be submitted to the Fire Marshal at the Mason City Fire Department. More information about sprinkler and fire alarm system reviews and approvals can be found on the Fire Marshal’s page under Fire Protection Systems. Certainly, anyone with specific questions should feel free to contact the Fire Marshal at the Mason City Fire Department (641.421.3640) during normal business hours.
Fire Fighter positions are Civil Service and all Fire Fighters are hired off a Civil Service List. The Department's current list expires in October 2011. In order to sit for the written test to be a fire fighter, an EMT-B certification is required. Prior fire fighter experience is not required. The top 20 applicants who pass the written test will then be given a physical ability test. Applicants who pass both tests are then put on the Fire Department’s Civil Service List—from which all future Fire Fighters are hired. It is always possible that the Department's current list will be exhausted before October 2011, but it is not, at this time, anticipated. There is more information regarding applying for fire fighter positions on the
Fire Department's web page.
In Mason City, the City will pick up bagged leaves of clippings and bundled branches free of charge on your regular garbage pick-up day from April 1 - November 30, as long as:
- Bags are 30 gallon or less in size, made of biodegradable paper and not filled with more than 50lbs. Yard waste bags are available at grocery, hardware and retail stores.
- Branches smaller than 4 inches in diameter are tied in bundles with string, twine or nylon (do not use wire). Bundles cannot be bigger than 18 inches in diameter or 4 feet in length.
The Landfill of North Iowa will take leaves or grass clippings free of charge.
Landfill Contact Information:
Located at 15942 Killdeer Ave.
(1/2 mile south of County Road B-35)
Phone: 641-357-5452
Web Site:
www.landfillnorthiowa.orgOpen weekdays 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Open Saturdays 8 a.m. to Noon
- The Landfill does not charge for leaves or grass
- Yard waste must be removed from containers when dumped so purchase of bags is not necessary.
- Tree trimmings are accepted at a cost is $10.00/ton for branches up to 12" in diameter. For logs and stumps over 12" in diameter, the cost is $90.00/ton.
It is recommended that when purchasing a CO detector you have one with a display that gives you a read out of the Parts Per Million (PPM). It is also a good idea that you purchase one that plugs in vs. a battery operated one. Detectors should be in a place that can wake you when you are asleep and should be placed on the wall 5 feet from the floor. There is a lot more information about
carbon monoxide and detectors on the Fire Department's web page.
Questions on ambulance billing can be directed to the Billing Clerk, Jennifer Brown. She can be reached at 641.421.4357 or toll-free outside of Mason City at 1.877.421.2399. Anyone in an emergency needing an ambulance should call 911. Only the Billing Clerk can be reached at these numbers. Anyone wishing to contact the Fire Department, should call 641.421.3640. Jennifer can also be contacted at Fire Headquarters, Monday through Friday, 9:00 - 11:00 or 1:30 - 3:30. Payments can be made in person at City Hall (10 1st St NW) with the Utility cashiers. The Fire Department accepts MasterCard and Visa, both in person and over the phone. Phone credit card payments should be made to Micki at City Hall (641.424.7110). Messages left on the ambulance billing phone numbers after hours are secured and you should feel free to leave a detailed message. Written questions can also be directed to Jennifer and mailed to the Fire Headquarters at 350 5th St SW, Mason City, IA 50401-3822.
If your carbon monoxide detector goes off (loudly) and people are sick - Evacuate and call 911 immediately!! Carbon Monoxide(CO) is a colorless and odorless gas that can kill. If your smoke detector goes off (loudly) - Evacuate and call 911 immediately—Even if you cannot see or smell smoke. If your detector is beeping or chirping, your detector either needs new batteries or needs to be replaced as it may not be working.
The City of Mason City has 1221 fire hydrants in the City. It is not possible for City employees to keep them clear all winter long. The hydrants themselves and the needed 3 foot clearance area is actually City property and any one in the neighborhood should feel free to keep their hydrant clear, even if it’s not on their property. More information regarding fire hydrants is available on the Fire Department's web pages. The Fire Marshal does not review any plans or documents for fire protection systems located outside the City’s limits.
The Mason City Fire Department provides ambulance services to most of Cerro Gordo County (except Clear Lake and its surrounding area), as well as the east half of Worth County.
Most detectors in homes currently use 'ionization' technology to detect the smoke. Ionization detectors are best at the early detection of rapidly spreading, flaming fires. Some homes may have detectors that use 'photoelectric' technology to detect the smoke. Photoelectric detectors are best at the early detection of slow burning, smoldering fires. Dual-sensor smoke detectors combine both technologies into one detector. Effective April 1, 2010, the State Fire Marshal will be requiring dual sensor smoke detectors. At the very minimum you should have one smoke detector on each level of your home. These should be placed near the bedrooms or areas where your family members sleep. If you have a large home or if sleeping areas are not close together place a smoke detector near each bedroom. Smoke detector batteries should be changed twice a year. The easiest way to remember this is to change your batteries when you change the time on your clocks every Spring and Fall. Most any of the detectors you will find in home improvement or warehouse type stores will do the job fine. Like any thing else you buy - you get what you pay for. Read the labels and make sure they are installed properly and working. Also remember to look for a "UL" seal! There is a lot more information regarding
smoke detectors and fire extinguishers on the Fire Department's web page.
On most 911 emergency ambulance calls throughout the country, two or more emergency vehicles respond. In the City limits, a fire engine responds for many reasons. The additional firefighters and paramedics responding on the fire engine can assist the ambulance crew on scene. This is the case for possible heart attacks or people having breathing problems. The fire engines carry much of the same equipment as the ambulances and it may be closer at that time. Ambulances usually only have two fire fighters on board. During an emergency, both of them are busy with the patient, radio and advising Mercy Medical Center’s emergency room of the patient and his/her needs. Extra fire fighters on the scene can assist with family questions, neighbors, etc. allowing the two ambulance fire fighters to provide focused and quality care to the patient.
The Mason City Fire Department will send a unit only until it can contact the ambulance provider for your area and verify that they are responding and that no assistance is needed. If the ambulance service that serves your area is able to respond, the Mason City Fire Department will not be able to provide ambulance services to you. The Fire Department has mutual aid agreements with most surrounding area ambulance services. In the event that the ambulance service that serves your area cannot respond, they may request a unit from the Mason City Fire Department. . Likewise, in the event that the Mason City Fire Department could not respond because its ambulances are busy elsewhere, we can request an ambulance from another service to respond.
Growth Development and Planning
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The City of Mason City adopted a new Comprehensive Plan in August, 2006. The plan serves as a legal basis for land use regulation. More importantly, the plan articulates a unified and compelling vision, drawn from Mason City's citizens, and the specific actions necessary to achieve this vision.
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Human Resources
Conditional job offers are made pending whatever pre-employment testing and reference checks need to be made, i.e. a driver’s license check, medical examination, alcohol/drug testing, and/or a polygraph/background investigations.
We welcome the opportunity to consider you for employment with the City of Mason City. An application blank may be obtained from Human Resources. The formal application must be on file in order to consider you for employment. You may attach a resume or other materials along with the application blank.
You must submit separate application materials for each job. You may apply for as many jobs as you wish, as long as the positions are currently open. If a position is not currently open, your application will be placed in a general file and will be considered at such time you let us know what position you are wanting to apply for.
You may find out about job openings in one of four ways:
- On Line – Look for job openings through our City of Mason City website, Job Opportunities
- Postings – All job openings are posted on the Bulletin Board located in the front entrance of City Hall.
- Workforce Development – All job openings are listed with Iowa Workforce Development and may be viewed on their web site.
- Advertisements – All full-time positions open to the public are placed in the Globe Gazette and other pertinent publications in order to attract as many applicants as possible.
You may obtain a job application in one of three ways:
- In person – Pick up an application, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at City Hall
- By Mail – To request an application by mail, call (641) 421-3378. Please indicate which position you are applying for.
- Online – Application materials can be accessed through each individual job announcement on this web site.
If you meet the minimum qualifications of the job and the job is a Civil Service position, you will be eligible to take a Civil Service exam. You will be notified of the date, time, and location of the exam.
The type of examination that you will be given will be job related. Depending on the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job, the examination may consist of one or more of the following: written tests, oral board interviews, demonstration tests.
Your qualifications will be evaluated based on the information you provide on your application materials. It is very important that you fill out the application materials completely, even if you attach a resume. Do not state “see resume” when asked to describe your education, experience, etc. In addition, please be very thorough in explaining your background in regards to licenses, professional affiliations, volunteer experience, etc.
Many jobs within the City are civil service positions. The Iowa Code identifies certain positions as civil service positions and the provisions of Section 400.6 govern these positions. The following professions are examples of civil servants for the City of Mason City: Firefighters, Police Officers, Operations and Maintenance employees, Clerks, Cashiers, Engineering Associates, Custodians, Communication Officers, etc. Employees of Boards and Commissions are not governed by Civil Service rules.
If you pass the examination, you will be eligible to be certified by the Civil Service Commission. If you are placed on the certified list, you will be considered for each vacancy in that classification for the life of the list, in accordance with Chapter 400 in the Iowa Code. Your name will be retained on this list for two years, until you have accepted employment with the City of Mason City, or ask to have your name removed from the list.
Once a list has been certified, the City can hire any applicant on the certified list he/she believes is most qualified. A representative from the department with the vacancy will review the application materials and select candidates for final interviews.
Completed applications are to be returned to:
Human Resources Department
City of Mason City
10 1st St NW
Mason City IA 50401-3224
Fax: 641-421-3389
Your application and other relevant materials (i.e. resume, transcripts, etc.) must be received by the application deadline date in order to be considered.
Yes, your Veteran’s Preference provides five points to be added to the passing scores of any civil service examination. Eligible veterans are honorably discharged veterans from the military or naval forces of the United States in any war the United States has been engaged as described in section 400.10 of the Code of Iowa.
The five points will be added to the passing score. The five points may not be used to assist you in passing the test. In addition, five additional points will be added to the score if the veteran has a service connected disability or is receiving compensation disability benefits or pension under laws administered by the Veteran’s Administration. Form DD 214 must be submitted by the application deadline in order to qualify.
Library
The MCPL does not have Internet filters. However, users of the Internet should realize they can have no expectation of privacy while using the Internet, as this is a public, shared service. While library staff cannot control and will not responsible or liable for materials some may find offensive, controversial, indecent, or imapproprate, we will attempt to address any complaints brought to our attention. The MCPL reserves the right to restrict use of the Internet computers or facilities at any time for any reason.
There is no charge for using the Internet, but there is a charge for printing from the Internet. At this time, it is $.20 per page for black/white and $1.00 per page for color printing.
The Mason City Public Library has 9 Internet desktop computers. There are also 4 laptop computers with Internet access that are reserved for research, school work, job searches, and resume writing.
The MCPL also has WiFi. Patrons with Internet-enabled laptops may stop at the circulation desk for suggestions on best reception locations. There is no wireless printing at this time.
Residents of Iowa are eligible to apply for a library card from the Mason City Public Library. We ask that you present some form of photo identification that has your full name and your current street address (not a post office box). If your photo ID does not have your current address, we will accept other verifying ID that does show your current address, as long as you also have some form of photo ID. For example, we will accept a checkbook, a voter registration card, a hunting license, a rent receipt, or a utility bill or other piece of mail sent to your current address.
There is no minimum age to receive a library card. However, children under the age of 12 must have a parent or legal guardian sign their registration card. Since most children don't have a form of identification like those listed above, the parent or legal guardian can use his/her ID to request a card for the child.
To get a library card, please ask any of our staff at the main circulation desk.
Sometimes the library does not have a book that you'd like to read. To get the item, you can request the item through interlibrary loan. Fill out an ILL form at the main circulation desk. We'll call you when the book is here, and when you are done reading it you return it to the Mason City Public Library. The fee for each interlibrary loan is $1.25.
If a book or item that you'd like to check out is already checked out by another patron, you can reserve that item (also called placing a hold). When the item is returned, it will be held for you at the main circulation desk. We'll send you a letter or email you, which ever your preference, to let you know the item is waiting for you to check it out. We'll hold the item for one week.
Patrons may sign up for Internet access at a sign-in kiosk location at the Circulation Desk. You will type in the barcode located on your library card. Out of state visitors may use the Internet by providing current address identification. Patrons read and agree to guidelines for using the Internet at each sign-in.
Books - 21 Days Books on CD - 21 Days Books on Tape - 21 Days Music CDs - 21 Days Video Tapes - 21 Days Computer Software - 21 Days DVDs - 7 Days Magazines - 7 Days Puppets - 7 Days You can renew library books and items once. You do not have to bring the books and items into the library in order to renew them. Renewal can also be done over the phone or online through your account.
Sessions are timed through the sign-in software. At this time patrons have a minimum of 60 minutes per session, with a daily limit of 90 minutes per day on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Books - 25
Books on CD - 4
Books on Tape - 16
Music CDs - 4
Video Tapes - 4
Computer Software - 2
DVDs - 4
Magazines - 12
Puppets - 1
You can have a total of 25 items per card.
A parent or legal guardian is required to sign a consent form and be present with a child under the age of 10 for computers that use the Internet. Children under 10 can use the library computers only when directly supervised by an adult. Children between the ages of 10 and 18 years are required to have a parent or legal guardian sign a consent form at the circulation desk before they use the Internet for the first time. Children between the ages of 10 and 18 years may use the computers unsupe
Fines are $0.20 a day for adult items and $0.10 a day for children's items. DVDs are $1.00 a day. There is a maximum fine of $3.00 on all items if returned. If items are not returned, patrons will be charged replacement costs. There are no fines on puppets or magazines if returned.
You will be unable to check out books or items if charges exceed $5.00 on your library account.
You can pay your fine at the circulation desk by cash or check.
You can check out all items at the circulation desk. There is also a self-checkout station.
You can return books, DVDs, and other items either in the outside book drop or inside at the circulation desk.
During the renovation, the main library is located in the Mason City Room at the west end of the library building. Both the Archive and Genealogy are located at Madison School and are open by appointment only. Please call 641.430.4159 for the Archive and 641.430.4154 for Genealogy.
MacNider Art Museum
The MacNider Art Museum is located at 303 Second Street SE, Mason City, Iowa Coming from the: North or South: Turn off Interstate 35 onto the Clear Lake/Mason City exit and follow Hwy 122 into Mason City. Turn left onto Federal Avenue until 2nd Street SE, then turn right and follow 2nd Street SE for two blocks. The Museum will be on your right. Please call 641-421-3666 if you would like more detailed directions.
Nothing. The MacNider Art Museum is free and open to the public.
The MacNider Art Museum acquires and displays a permanent collection of American art. The Collection includes paintings, prints, drawings, ceramics, sculpture, fused and blown glass, textiles, and Bil Baird puppets.
There are also two temporary exhibition galleries, which display traveling exhibitions, solo artist shows, juried exhibitions, and highlights from the permanent collection.
The MacNider Art Museum is open year round during regular museum hours: Tuesday - Saturday: 9am - 5pm
(with extended evening hours on Thursday until 9pm)
Sunday - Mondays and Legal Holidays: Closed
Charles H. MacNider was a president of the First National Bank of Mason City, now Norwest Bank of Mason City, and the father of General Hanford MacNider. General Hanford MacNider and his wife purchased the museum building in 1964 and gave it to the City of Mason City to be made into an arts center.
Operation & Maintenance
Yes, a permit can be obtained at the Operations & Maintenance office at 725 North Massachusetts Avenue, Mason City, IA 50401. Call (641) 421-3675 for more information.
For sewer problems call (641) 421-3682, for all other problems call the police department at (641) 421-3636, they will contact the correct personnel.
Generally, water will be off for 2-6 hours for most repairs to the water system. With a water main break it is hard to estimate how long the water will be off, however, in all cases personnel will continue to work until the water is turned back on.
All attempts will be made to leave at least one entry to home and businesses whenever possible when a street needs to be closed for construction work.
Title 9, Chapter10A of the City Code outlines the provisions of the alternate side parking ordinance. Alternate side parking will be placed in effect and removed by the City Administrator as deemed necessary. Citizens are asked to check the City's website home page or turn to local news media for the status of the ordinance.
In the event the alternate side parking ordinance is in effect, the following provisions shall apply.
- Parking shall be permitted on the odd numbered side of the street on odd numbered days of the month.
- Parking shall be permitted on the even numbered side of the street on even numbered days of the month.
- People moving their vehicle(s) from one side of the street to the other side must do it between 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. the night before.
- On cul-de-sacs bearing consecutive numbers, parking is prohibited according to the schedule for the street to which it connects.
- During alternate side parking, signs prohibiting parking at all times on one entire side of the street only shall not be enforced and alternate side parking regulations shall be in effect.
- Alternate side parking regulations shall have no effect on streets where parking is prohibited on both sides.
- Alternate side parking regulations do not apply to U.S. Highway 122 and U.S. Highway 65 south of 8th Street South and north of Fifth Street North, nor to the business district. Business district is defined as the area bounded by and including all streets between Connecticut Avenue on the east, Jefferson Avenue on the west, Fourth Street South on the south, and Fifth Street North on the north. (Exception: Parking shall be permitted within 100 feet of the main entrance of a commercial business location on the side adjacent to the building during regular business hours.)
This notice is not intended to be a comprehensive review of the city ordinance regarding alternate side parking. Contact the Street Division at (641) 421-3675 or the Police Department at (641) 421-3636 with any questions.
The Public Works Department also asks that parents not allow children to play in piles of snow along the curb. Children are known to have been killed and injured by snow removal equipment. At best it is difficult for the snowplow operators to see.
Thank you in advance to all the citizens of Mason City as we anticipate the winter weather.
Citizens are asked to call Alliant Energy at (800) 255-4268.
The city arborist crew working under the Street Department maintains all trees on the city right-of-way. Call (641) 421-3675 for more information.
Operation & Maintenance - Street
Yes, but the hose should not run across the sidewalk. It creates a trip hazard.
No, they must be picked up once the City Engineer has given permission to close the street. A $50.00 deposit must also be paid.
Yes, if they are in bundles 2 to 3 feet long by 18" in diameter. Residents are asked to place the bundles with yard waste for the Sanitation Department to collect on your sanitation service day during the yard waste season.
Yes, the Operations & Maintenance Department repairs broken curb when time and material are available. Replacing curb is a lower priority than a major road repair.
Contact Bob Berggren at the Street Department at (641) 420-1999.
Sand can be purchased at stores that sell hardware, construction material or landscaping supplies. The city may supply sand as needed. Contact Bob Berggren at the Street Department at (641) 420-1999.
Citizens should submit a petition to the City Engineering Department at City Hall, 10 1st Street NW, or call (641) 421-3605 for more information.
The City ice control crew is called out whenever the streets are icing up. Snowplows are called in at the supervisor's discretion.
The City streets are swept approximately every 3-4 weeks.
The city tree crew trims trees on a daily basis, work load and weather permitting. A full cycle around the entire city takes approximately 7-10 years.
Contact Bob Berggren at the Street Department at (641) 420-1999 for a list of tree species.
The Street Department cleans the storm drains. Contact (641) 421-3675 for more information.
Contact the Neighborhood Services Division at (641) 421-3380 for a block party kit. Included in the kit is a Barricade Request form which is necessary to close the street. This form is also available from the Street Department by calling (641) 421-3675.
Once the request form is filled out, submit it to the City Engineer located at City Hall, 10 1st Street NW, (641) 421-3605.
If permission is granted, call the Street Division at (641) 421-3675 to obtain the barricades.
Contact the City Engineering Department located at City Hall, 10 1st Street NW, or call (641) 421-3605.
Citizens are asked to contact the Utility Billing Division at (641) 421-3612 or visit their offices on the first floor of City Hall located at 10 1st Street NW.
The Neighborhood Services Division handles the requests. Contact the division at City Hall, 10 1st Street NW, or by phone at (641) 421-3626 fill out a citizen service request form located on the City's website, located along the left hand column of the home page at www.masoncity.net.
Contact Dispatch at (641) 421-3636 and press '0'.
Contact the Street Department at (641) 421-3675. They will hire an individual to take care of it.
The property owner repairs their portion and the city repairs the corners. Contact the Street Department at (641) 421-3675 for more information.
The Neighborhood Services Division handles the requests. Contact the division at City Hall, 10 1st Street NW, or by phone at (641) 421-3626 fill out a citizen service request form located on the City's website, located along the left hand column of the home page at
www.masoncity.net.
Snow plows travel 15 to 20 MPH when plowing the center of the street and approximately 10 MPH when plowing the curb line.
It depends on the amount of snowfall, but the plow operators are instructed to clear the snow from curb to curb.
The Street crews will sand the whole street if necessary and if time and material are available.
Operation & Maintenance - Utilities
Generally, the water will be off for 2-6 hours for most repairs. With a water main break it is hard to estimate how long the water will be turned off. However, in all cases, personnel will continue to work until the water is turned back on.
All attempts will be made to leave one entry to homes and businesses whenever possible when a street is closed for construction work.
Contact the Utility Supervisor (641) 421-3677 or via e-mail at
lmiller@masoncity.net. You can also call the Mason City Police Department at (641) 421-3636.
Operation & Maintenance - Water
Please call (641) 421-3682. The City's collection system personnel will check to make sure the City's sewer lines are flowing properly.
Parks Department
Contact Park Supervisor Bob Berggren at (641) 420-1999 or at (641) 421-3675.
Contact Park Supervisor Bob Berggren at (641) 420-1999 or at (641) 421-3675.
Contact the Recreation Department at (641) 421-3673.
Police Department
The only fine payments accepted at the police department are for Mason City parking violations. All other citation-related payments should be made at the Cerro-Gordo County Courthouse, 220 North Washington, during normal business hours.
People wanting to ride-along need to complete a ride-along application. A background check will be conducted. If the person passes the background check, a supervisor will contact the applicant to schedule the ride-along. Generally, one ride-along is allowed every 6 months.
See the city ordinance Title 8-6 (Noise Pollution Control)for requirements. Applicants will submit their letter requesting permit / variance and fee to Mason City Police Department for review.
The ordinance is available on the city's website under 9-10A-1 through 8. Copies of the ordinance can also be picked up the police station. If questions, please call a dispatcher at (641) 421-3001 or a shift commander at (641) 421-3644.
Accident reports are usually mailed to the drivers involved. Copies may also be made on-line at www.policereports.us . Requests for records can be submitted during normal business hours, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4: 30 p.m. For more information on when or if certain records are available, please call the Records Department at (641) 421-3694 first.
Some stolen items will have to be retained for the trial or longer. To inquire if your property is eligible for release, please call the ID Bureau at (641) 421-3390.
Recreation
The Mason City Recreation Department offers scholarships for all youth programs. Eligible families must meet certification guidelines (Title 19). A limited number is available. . .first come first serve basis.
All activities and programs are dependent upon weather conditions. Announcements of cancellations due to weather will be aired on the local radio stations. When youth are involved, we ask that parents arrive at the program site as soon as possible if sudden weather conditions occur. Decisions on canceling programs because of the weather will be made one-half before each class. Evening leagues will be made by 4:00 if possible or by the evening Supervisor before the game.
Spring/Summer programs use the grade they have just completed and for the Fall/Winter programs use the grade they are currently attending.
To determine age we go by the age they are by program start date.
Go to
Register OnlineIf you are having problems registering online, give us a call at (641) 421-3673 and we can walk you through the process.
Every attempt will be made to reschedule activities that are canceled due to inclement weather. However, no partial class or session refunds will be given if weather does not allow for rescheduling
The department will contact you about rescheduling. If you don't hear from us in an appropriate amount of time, please contact us at (641) 421-3673.
Our Spring/Summer Brochures come out March 1.
Our Fall/Winter Brochures come out August 1.
Starting in 2008 the Recreation Department will NO longer be doing a current Resident mailing in Mason City or mailing to out of town residents. No brochures will be mailed.
There are several ways to view our Seasonal Brochures & to register for programs:
- On our website - Fall/Winter Brochure & Spring/Summer Brochure. You may veiw programs or download a hard copy.
- You may pick up a hard copy Brochure at the following Business: MC Recreation Office, City Hall, Charlie Brown, Godfather's Pizza, Hardee's, Hy-Vee's, Lyon's Toyota Dodge, MC Library, Southbridge Mall - just to name a few!!
- All programs can be viewed on Channel 4 - MediaCom!
Volunteer Program
There are several special events throughout the year, which include the Earth Day annual community-wide clean up effort, the 457's Cannonball Day and the MacNider Arts Festival. There are also several special events with the Recreation Department involving family and holiday events.
Long-term volunteer commitments are in the areas of the Volunteer Park Watch Program, City Beautification Project involving the planting and maintenance of community flower gardens, Tour Guides and Sales Depot Clerks for 457 Steam Locomotive Preservation Project, the Adopt-a-Street Program and the cemetery Adopt-a Section Program.
Our many volunteer projects vary in degree of skills needed to complete them. The Volunteer Service Coordinator will work with you to find opportunities that best fit your interests. Training will be provided on projects that require specific knowledge. In many instances, just having the willingness to donate time and labor to a project, is all we need from our volunteers.
A Volunteer Interest form is a convenient way to help you answer this question. Once completed, it will help you and the City Volunteer Program staff to match your interests with volunteer opportunities. You can request the form my e-mailing the volunteer office at:
mzishka@masoncity.net. Or, click on the Your Government tab and scroll to Volunteer Program.
The Mason City community offers many opportunities for individuals to give back to the community through volunteerism. If you are not interested in opportunities with the City organization, contact local non-profit organizations to ask about volunteer opportunities. Or call the City Volunteer Program. Staff here are a good resource for opportunities to volunteer for and around the community. Contact staff at
mzishka@masoncity.net.
The City Volunteer Program has many opportunities to volunteer as little or as much as you would like. City staff will work with you to help determine project that best fit in with your schedule, amount of available time and duration of commitment you can make to the projects.
The City Volunteer Program offers opportunities on projects that can be completed both indoors and outdoors as well as short- and long-term projects. The volunteer opportunities change regularly, so we encourage you to check out Current Volunteer Opportunities frequently which can be located by choosing the Your Government tab and scrolling to the Volunteer Program. Or, contact:
mzishka@masoncity.net.
Youth Task Force
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the Youth Task Force do?
A: The Youth Task Force (YTF) is a community coalition working to reduce Risk Factors and build Developmental Assets for youth using research-based models and science-based strategies. Young people work side by side with adults on YTF projects as well as with their peers on Youth Action Teams.
Adults of all ages also volunteer for YTF committees and special projects. The YTF facilitates and coordinates these projects and, in some cases, provides funding.
Q: How does the YTF operate?
A: Thirteen members appointed by the Mayor and City Council gather together to guide the long range vision and mission of the YTF.
The Executive Committee, comprised of 9 adults and 4 youth, serves as the administrative branch of the YTF.
- Robin Anderson - Mason City Chamber of Commerce
- Jay Hansen - Prairie Ridge Addiction and Treatment Services
- Barb Kellogg -North Iowa Community Action Organization
- Jean McAleer -Francis Lauer Youth Services
- Phyllis Mulkey - Retired grandparent
- Mark Neibauer -Newman Catholic High School
- Kevin Pals -Cerro Gordo Sheriff
- Anita Micich- Mason City Schools
- Jeannett Wasicek - City of Mason City
- Maria Makar- MCHS Senior
- Andrew West- MCHS Junior
- Sephra Byrne- Newman Senior
YTF Staff members include a full-time Director, Project Assistant/Youth Coordinator, Project Facilitator/Mentoring Coordinator, Project Coordinator, Office Coordinator, an AmeriCorp Vista, and part time Youth Intern.
Q: Who can get involved?
Anyone can join
the YTF efforts, there is something for everyone and any form of help is always appreciated!