There was an unusually large turnout for this week’s Tama City Council meeting, with the biggest subject on the docket being water. After an advisory came out last week informing the public about the current levels of PFOS or Forever Chemicals in the drinking water, many locals wanted to know more.

The city’s main water man, Cody Nehring, was up front and center, ready to answer any question the public had. Cody informed those in attendance that work is being done to fix the problem, including the design and construction of a new filter. Although many in attendance of the meeting wanted to point the finger at the now closed paper mill for the Forever Chemicals, Mr. Nehring said there is no way of telling just where they came from.

The reason we are hearing about the PFOS now is because the DNR recently lowered their number as to what was a safe amount to have in the water. City Clerk Jill Apfel and Mayor Brian Hanus encourage anyone with concerns or questions about the PFOS to come into the Civic Center and talk.

The council also approved for Nehring to get a one dollar raise as he just earned his Wastewater One.

Two resolutions regarding TIF Indebtedness were approved. A Safe Route To School resolution passed. This resolution is to help in the progress of getting a walking light on 16th Street and the like.

The resignation of reserve officer Jamie Youngbear was accepted by the council. Jamie served 26 years as a reserve officer and was forced to resign due to health issues.

Since Christmas this year lands on a Monday, the council decided to give all city employees the Friday prior and the Tuesday after off.

A pre scheduled council meeting for Jan. 1, 2024, was rescheduled for Jan. 8. The council approved a second payment for street reconstruction. A payment was also approved for History’s Mysteries.