SOUTH SIOUX CITY, NEBRASKA
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2009
CREDITS
MAYOR
Sandra K. Ehrich
CITY ADMINISTRATOR
Lance Hedquist
COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Al Bengtson
CITY COUNCIL
Al Bengtson . Merrill Hale Gary Hallstrom Dan Bousquet Dennis Nelson Oscar Gomez Rod Koch John Sanders
TECHNICAL COMMITTEES
FINANCE COMMITTEE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE Merrill Hale - Chair Al Bengtson - Chair Rod Koch Dan Bousquet Gary Hallstrom John Sanders Oscar Gomez Dennis Nelson
LEISURE COMMITTEE PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE Oscar Gomez - Chair John Sanders - Chair Gary Hallstrom Dan Bousquet Merrill Hale Al Bengtson Rod Koch Dennis Nelson
LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE HOUSING & COMMUNITY Gary Hallstrom - Chair DEVELOPMENT Merrill Hale Dennis Nelson - Chair Rod Koch John Sanders Oscar Gomez Al Bengtson Dan Bousquet
South Sioux City Comprehensive Plan
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE AGENCY Terry Muff - Chair Randy Lanning - Chair Jan Johansen Bart Gotch - Vice Chair Bill Abbe Merrill Hale - Sec./Treasurer Gene Manley Scott Manley Mike O’Brien Rick Robinette PARKS & RECREATION BOARD PLANNING & ZONING Rick Brandes - Chair COMMISSION Bill Huser - Vice Chair Milt Peters - Chair Ardel Bengtson Doug Pfeifer - Alternate Rick Voss Ron Rapp George Quint Lyle Todd Gail Sailer Arlyn Wilson Tom Luxford John Koskovich Gene Maffit - Staff Coordinator Jane Krogh Scott Manley PLUMBING LICENSING BOARD Eric Bertness Steve Nelson - Chair Arlan Kuehn Kent Zimmerman Joe Conley BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS Richard Poulsen Keith Rector - Chair Wally Messerlie Arlan Kuehn John Koskovich Larry Brostad Milt Peters ELECTRIC LICENSING BOARD Bill Addison - Chair CABLE TV Kent Zimmerman Jan Johansen Joe Conley Russ Gifford John O'Dell Everett Gunn Dave Heeney
HOUSING AUTHORITY Bruce George - Chair Pat Wojcik- Vice Chair Randy Colwell Lori Love Sam Gomez Lillian Bossow – Commissioner
LIBRARY BOARD Diane Boyd - Chair Adriana Dungan Joan Robinette Merrie Stinger
South Sioux City Comprehensive Plan
ARBORETUM/TREE BOARD DESIGN COMMISSION Tom Hardy - Chair Rod Koch - Chair Dick Leitschuck – Vice Chair Andy Phillips Merlyn Kimbell Mark Buckley Bill Garvey Carol A. Schuldt Marge Moos Deb Schroeder Lue Franco Larry Meyer Gene Maffit Mark Utter Jim Steele - Coordinator Kent Zimmerman- Coordinator
BOARD OF HEALTH SEDC REPRESENTATIVE Sandy Ehrich, Mayor Merle Long Scot Ford – Police Chief Al Bengtson- Council President LEC BOARD Kent Zimmerman Jason Bowman Dr. Rick Colwell John Sanders Eric Bertness COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Bart Gotch - President MFO Representative Ron Rapp - Vice Chair Denis Campbell Doug Pfeifer - Sec. /Treasurer Pat Wojcik Kathy Addison Steve Rector POLICE PENSION Gloria Oorlog Jason Heft Mary McNamara Merrill Hale Arlan Kuehn Sue Murray Jim Gunsolley Ed Mahon - Alternate Marci Mahon Pat Brandes Nanci Walsh - Staff Coordinator
Nebraska League of Cities Legislative Rep. Sandy Ehrich, Lance Hedquist South Sioux City Chamber Legislative Rep. Sandy Ehrich, Lance Hedquist Sewer Users Committee Al Bengtson, Lance Hedquist Dakota County Solid Waste Agency John Sanders SIMPCO Sandy Ehrich, Al Bengtson - Alt. SIMPCO MPO Representative Sandy Ehrich SIMPCO Tech Committee Paul Nolan, Chad Kehrt – Alt. Nebraska Municipal Power Pool Lance Hedquist, Sandy Ehrich Loess Hills RC&D Lance Hedquist Positive Image Committee Al Bengtson Keep Northeast Nebraska Beautiful Jim Steele, Nanci Walsh Cardinal Development Committee Sandy Ehrich
South Sioux City Comprehensive Plan
Youth Leadership Council —Anna Stoltze, David Pacheco, Ismael Voladez, Jamie Valdovinos, Jennirae Sullivan, Karyn Kelly, Moses Pacheco, Nick Walsh, Sid Saythongphet, Sujey Gomez, Alex Stoltze, Mark Sayre, Elisabeth Martinez, Jose, Marinez, Angie Stoltze, Sponsors: Tom Luxford, Lance Hedquist, Mayor Sandy Ehrich, Jim Steel Coordinator.
South Sioux City 2003 Nebraska Showcase Community
Prepared by Siouxland Interstate Metropolitan Planning Council (SIMPCO) 507 7th Street, Suite 401 Postal Box 447 Sioux City, Iowa 51102
Telephone Number 712.279.6286 Fax Number 712.279.6920 www.simpco.org
The 2006 South Sioux City Comprehensive Plan was prepared for the City of South Sioux City under SIMPCO’s Small Community Partnership Program with funds provided by the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Business Opportunity Grant (RBOG) Program along with funding from the City of South Sioux City.
South Sioux City Comprehensive Plan
TABLE OF CONTENTS
List of Tables...... iii
List of Maps and Figures.…………………………………………………….iv
Introduction ...... v
Goals of the General Comprehensive Plan ...... vi
Section 1.0 Background Information
1.1 Physical and Historical Background...... 1 1.2 Demographic Characteristics...... 17
Section 2.0 Public Works
2.1 Transportation...... 25 2.2 Water System ...... 34 2.3 Sanitary Sewer System ...... 42 2.4 Storm Sewer System ...... 44 2.5 Electrical System ...... 44 2.6 Natural Gas...... 44 2.7 Fiber Optics/Technology...... 45 2.8 Parks and Recreation Facilities ...... 54
Section 3.0 Public Services
South Sioux City Comprehensive Plan
3.1 Essential Services ...... 58 3.2 Other Services ...... 61
Section 4.0 Housing
4.1 General Housing Characteristics ...... 71 4.2 Structural Characteristics...... 76 4.3 New Construction ...... 77 4.4 Special Housing Needs ...... 78 4.5 Future Housing Needs...... 79 4.6 Obstacles to Matching Housing Supply and Demand...... 79
Section 5.0 Financial Structure
5.1 Taxation...... 80 5.2 Revenues...... 81 5.3 Expenditures...... 83 5.4 Indebtedness ...... 84
Section 6.0 Economic Development
6.1 Local Economy ...... 84 6.2 Regional Economy ...... 89
Section 7.0 Land Use
7.1 Existing Land Use...... 92 7.2 Future Land Use ...... 93
Section 8.0 Goals and Recommendations
8.1 Housing...... 97
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8.2 Community Facilities...... 97 8.3 Economic Development...... 98
LIST OF TABLES Table 1-1 Soil Summary (Dakota County) Table 1-2 Temperature, Precipitation and Humidity (Dakota County) Table 1-3 Population Trends 1930 - 2000 (South Sioux City and Dakota County) Table 1-4 Population by Age and Gender 2000 (South Sioux City) Table 1-5 Demographic Comparisons by Race 1990 - 2000 (South Sioux City and Dakota County) Table 1-6 Demographics by Race 1990 – 2000 (State of Nebraska) Table 1-7 Population Trends and Forecasts 1930 – 2010 (South Sioux City and Dakota County) Table 2-1 Schedule of Street Capital Improvement Projects (South Sioux City) Table 2-2 Schedule of Water Capital Improvement Projects (South Sioux City) Table 2-3 Schedule of Sanitary Sewer Capital Improvement Projects (South Sioux City) Table 3-1 Fire Department Major Vehicle’s and Equipment (South Sioux City) Table 3-2 South Sioux City Community School Enrollment 1999 — 2003 Table 4-1 Housing Stock Profile 1990 — 2000 (South Sioux City and Dakota County) Table 4-2 Tenure by Household Trends and Projections 2000 – 2008 (South Sioux City and Dakota County) Table 4-3 Specific Household Characteristics Trends and Projections 2000 —2008 (South Sioux City and Dakota County) Table 4-4 Housing Vacancy Status 1990 — 2000 (South Sioux City, Dakota County and State of Nebraska) Table 4-5 Owner Occupied Housing Values 1990 – 2008 (South Sioux City and Dakota County) Table 4-6 Contract Rent 1990 – 2008 (South Sioux City and Dakota County) Table 4-7 Housing Units in Structure - 2000 (South Sioux City) Table 4-8 New Housing Construction 2002 – 2005 (South Sioux City) Table 5-1 Assessed Valuation 1999 – 2005 (South Sioux City) Table 5-2 Revenues (South Sioux City) Table 5-3 Expenditures (South Sioux City) Table 5-4 General Obligation Bond Repayment Schedule 1999 — 2003 (South Sioux City) Table 6-1 Average Wages 1996 – 2003 (South Sioux City) Table 6-2 Major Employers (South Sioux City)
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Table 6-3 Retail Sales 1997 — 2004 (South Sioux City) Table 6-4 Major Employment 1998 – 2004 (Dakota County) Table 6-5 Percent of Employment 1998 – 2004 (Dakota County) Table 6-6 Number of Unemployed Persons 1996 – 2002 (Dakota County) Table 6-7 Percent of Unemployed Persons 1998 – 2004 (Dakota County) LIST OF MAPS Map 1-1 Location of South Sioux City Map 1-2 Principal Soils (Dakota County) Map 2-1 Existing Streets and Highways (South Sioux City) Map 2-2 Future Streets and Highways (South Sioux City) Map 2-3 Truck Route (South Sioux City) Map 2-4 Ground Water Storage (Dakota County) Map 2-5 Ground Water Quality (Nebraska) Map 2-6 Fiber Optic Network (South Sioux City) Map 2-7 Trail System (South Sioux City)
LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1-1 Population Trends 1930 – 2000 (South Sioux City and Dakota County) Figure 1-2 Demographics 2000 (South Sioux City and Dakota County) Figure 1-3 Demographics 2000 (Dakota County) Figure 1-4 Demographics 2000 (Nebraska)
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INTRODUCTION
Siouxland Interstate Metropolitan Planning Council (SIMPCO), working with the City of South Sioux City, prepared this Comprehensive Plan to assist residents and local government officials in decisions concerning the growth and development of the city.
A Comprehensive Plan serves as a technical guide for decision-makers and establishes long-range policies in a unified and coordinated manner. A good plan provides for orderly growth and development and serves as a reference for day-to-day decisions. The plan can also assist the local governments and businesses in obtaining state or federal grant funds, because it provides evidence that the local government with the participation of its residents is preceding rationally and carefully in the city’s development.
The planning process is one in which residents of the city works with their elected officials to develop strategies for the future to achieve the identified objectives of the community and to avoid unnecessary and costly mistakes.
One of the primary purposes of a comprehensive plan is to guide the use of the communities’ limited resources in order to improve the well being of its residents. Protection of the environment and the efficient provision of quality community services and public works are the goals of the plan. Implementation of the plan will result in the protection of property values and the avoidance of damage to economic, environmental and recreational assets. The plan will also guide development to make the best use of existing transportation, utilities, parks and other public facilities.
Due to the changing nature of conditions and circumstances, planning is designed to be a continuous process. It involves background research and analysis, the establishment of goals, formulation of short and long-range plans and a means of implementing these plans. With the passage of time, conditions change and basic information and assumptions included in the original plan may require updating to reflect these changes.
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GOALS OF THE GENERAL COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Goals are broad statements, which establish the desired direction of community growth within a given length of time. They should express the attitudes, values and priorities of community residents and governmental officials. Goals are developed for the following areas:
A. General Land Development and Public Utilities
1. Orderly development of land through planned placement of utilities. 2. Manage land as a scarce resource to be conserved. 3. Minimize the cost of rural and urban development. 4. Preservation of existing development while providing for new growth. 5. Expand social and economic opportunities for residents. 6. Land development patterns that improve/maintain the quality of life. 7. Determine best alternatives of utility services through cooperative arrangements with other public and private entities.
B. Transportation
1. Develop a transportation system that complements area wide goals, objectives and plans. 2. Maintain a transportation system that is economical and dependable.
C. Housing
1. Achievement of quality and efficient residential developments. 2. Satisfaction of housing needs of residents. 3. Provision of freedom of choice in housing. 4. Realization of energy efficiency in housing. 5. Eliminate sub-standard housing through demolition or rehabilitation.
D. Commercial/Industrial Development
1. Achievement of orderly commercial and industrial growth. 2. Competent public assistance to private enterprise in identifying areas suitable for development. 3. Re-development of Dakota Avenue.
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4. Encourage value added agricultural, technology firms and expansion of existing enterprises. 5. Consider regional tourism and industry.
E. Parks and Open Spaces
1. Satisfaction of park and open space needs of residents. 2. Achievement of a harmonious relationship between natural landscape and use of land. 3. Identify and provide recreational and leisure needs.
F. Public Services
1. Accessibility of public services to all individuals. 2. Design and location of schools to accommodate projected growth. 3. Achievement of a safe and sanitary environment for residents.
G. Technology
1. Continuity and access of www.southsiouxcity.org and the Internet to all individuals. 2. Make wise decisions regarding current and future technological changes. 3. Maintain a technology assessment plan. 4. Research technological capabilities that could enhance city services and quality of life for residents.
www.southsiouxcity.org
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1.0 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
1.1 Physical and Historical Background
1.1.1 Location of South Sioux City
South Sioux City is located in the northeastern corner of Nebraska in Dakota County and borders Sioux City, Iowa, North Sioux City, South Dakota and Dakota City, Nebraska.
Two modern, four-lane bridges spanning the Missouri River facilitate traffic between Sioux City and South Sioux City. U.S. Highways 77 and 20 and Nebraska Highway 35 serve the area. The Interstate 129 bridge and expressway give complete four-lane access to Interstate 29. South Sioux City is at the head of navigation on the Missouri River.
Dakota County is approximately 255 square miles in area and is bounded on the south by Thurston County, west by Dixon County, and north and east by the Missouri River. The Winnebago and Omaha Indian reservations, two of Nebraska’s three Indian reservations, are located in Thurston County.
Map 1-1 illustrates the location of South Sioux City.
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MAP 1-1 LOCATION OF SOUTH SIOUX CITY
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1.1.2 Historical Information near South Sioux City and in Dakota County
¾ 1739 Near South Sioux City, the first white man crossed the Missouri River into what is now Nebraska.
¾ 1804 Near South Sioux City, the famous Lewis and Clark expedition was encamped for a week in August. One of their members, Sergeant Charles Floyd died and was buried on a high bluff overlooking the Missouri River.
¾ 1854 Gustave Pecaut, a Frenchman, is believed to have been the first white settler in what is now South Sioux City and built a log house near the Missouri River.
¾ 1858 Harney City named after General Harney, who commanded troops stationed in the vicinity as protection against Indian raids, was incorporated and was eventually changed to Covington. Covington became noted as one of the frontier’s wild, rip-roaring communities.
¾ 1870 The town of Stanton was established immediately south of Covington. Six years later it was voted to consolidate Covington, Stanton, and South Sioux City into the community now bearing this name.
¾ 1876 The first railroad was built out of the Missouri River community. It was a narrow gauge and known as the Covington, Black Hills, and Columbus. Later it became the standard gauge St. Paul, Minneapolis, and Omaha.
¾ 1889 The Pacific Short Line railroad was started. This was built to O’Neill, Nebraska, and was finally taken over by Burlington. ¾ 1896 The now–famous Combination Bridge across the Missouri River was completed connecting South Sioux City and Sioux City, Iowa.
¾ 1907 The last rail line to be built was from Burlington to Lincoln.
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¾ 1938 The Combination Bridge was purchased and became the property of Dakota County with the understanding that when the bridge was finally debt free, it would also become toll free.
¾ 1951 After February of 1951, the bridge was open to the public without toll payment.
¾ 1981 The Combination Bridge was replaced by the Siouxland Veteran’s Memorial Bridge and was dedicated on July 22, 1981.
¾ 1991 During the Desert Storm War the idea of 50 flags, representing each state, was conceived out of patriotic pride in honor of all servicemen and women. Because of this “Patriotic Pride” a Veteran’s Section was established in Albertsen’s Bridgeview Park and dedicated on July 4, 1991.
¾ 1999 Completion of an 8-mile fiber optic network loop around the city.
¾ 2003 Dedication of the newly renovated City Hall. South Sioux City won the All-America City Award, the nation’s premier civic recognition award, because of their civic excellence and working together to address critical issues. This is the oldest and most prestigious community recognition award in the country. South Sioux City was also recognized as the Governor of Nebraska’s Showcase Community, the highest recognition
award in the state. 2003 NE Showcase Community
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Museums & Historical Sites
Historical sites near South Sioux City and in Dakota County are described below.
1. Blyburg The site of Blyburg, near Blyburg Lake, was settled in 1856 at the same time that the settlements of Pacific City, St. John’s and Dakota City were being settled in other areas of the county. Blyburg did not survive very long.
2. Bobier Site This earth lodge site, located 4.5 miles southeast of Homer, was occupied around 1400- 1450 A. D. The prehistoric peoples inhabiting this area during that time were members of the Central Plains Tradition, St. Helena Phase.
3. Coburn Junction The settlement of Coburn or Coburn Junction, located five miles west of Dakota City was a train depot. The depot burned in 1919, was rebuilt on the same spot, and was eventually deserted when the discontinuation of passenger trains eliminated the need for a depot agent. By 1940 the depot was sold as private property and moved to South Sioux City to be used as a home.
4. Conway Site This site is located 2.5 miles north of Homer. The University of Nebraska surveyed it in 1940. Several house depressions and artifacts of the Nebraska Phase of the Prehistoric Central Plains Tradition are here.
5. Combs School Combs School is the oldest school building in Dakota County and one of the oldest in Nebraska. It was constructed in 1857 at the Omadi site. It was moved four miles south of Dakota City because of the meandering river and later moved again as it was in the railroad right-of-way. The school, located next to the O’Connor House, was closed on May 22, 1964 and now belongs to the Dakota County Historical Society.
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6. Emmanuel Lutheran Church It is located at 1500 Hickory Street in Dakota City. Built in 1860, this was the first Lutheran Church in the Nebraska Territory. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
7. Fort Charles Fort Charles (or Fort Carlos) was a trading post established in 1795 by James Mackay for Spanish St. Louis traders and located on the Missouri River between the mouths of the Little Sioux and the Big Sioux Rivers, about twelve miles south of the present site of Dakota City. Its builders for the reigning King of Spain, Charles IV, named the fort. Fort Charles was designed for trade with the Omaha Indian’s and their neighbors, and to act as a base for exploring further upriver.
8. Homer Site The State Historical Society surveyed this site south of Homer in 1941 and unearthed artifacts of the St. Helena Phase of the prehistoric Central Plains Tradition.
9. Lewis and Clark Camp On August 13, 1804, the Lewis and Clark expedition camped on a sandbar on the south side of the creek along which the Maha Indians resided. Men were sent to persuade the Maha Indians to talk to Lewis and Clark. The men followed the Maha Creek (now Omaha Creek) into the village. However, the Maha had burned the village four years earlier because of an influx of smallpox, and the men found only burial mounds to the rear of the village.
Lewis and Clark also talked with chiefs from the Otoe Missouria tribe in an attempt to make peace among the various Indian tribes in the area. It was the last day of camp at this site when Sergeant Charles Floyd was taken ill. The next day, after setting sail, Sergeant Floyd died and was buried on top of a cliff with military honors. They camped that evening at the route of the Floyd River.
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10. Museum Machinery Building This museum is located two miles east of Homer. This is a collection of early machinery.
11. Nelson Site This site, an earth lodge village of the Prehistoric Farmer dating around 1400 A. D. is located about one mile northwest of Homer. It was discovered by the State Historical Society in 1940 and contains artifacts of the peoples from the Woodland Tradition.
12. O’Connor House This historical 14-room mansion located two miles east of Homer is an example of Italianate domestic architecture. Captain Cornelius O’Connor built it in 1865 to accommodate his wife and eight children.
13. Omadi Located five miles south of Dakota City, Omadi was laid out by George T. Woods, Chauncey A. Horr and Moses Kreps in 1855. It supposedly received its name from a young Indian who, having contracted smallpox, stood on the bank of the river crying, “Oh, me die!”
By 1856 Omadi reached a population of about 400. The first school was built in 1857 but was later moved to a site two miles south of Homer when the Missouri River started eroding the bank nearby. The school had to be moved a second time when the Burlington Railroad discovered that the building was sitting on railroad property. In 1862 the river had washed away half of the town, and by 1865 every house had moved either to farms or to Dakota City.
14. Railroad Park A renovated historical park located in Emerson. It features a caboose as well as lots of trees and nursery rock.
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15. Ryan Site This site, located on the bluffs just south and east of Homer, consists of a series of burial mounds, which belonged to the prehistoric peoples of the Woodland Tradition. The Omaha Indians later used these mounds as a gravesite.
16. St. John’s City Marker It is located on U. S. Highway 20 in front of St. Patrick’s Church in Jackson. The little town of St. John’s City had a church, log school, hotel, fifty dwellings, sawmill, gristmill, store and two doctors.
17. Tonwantonga Marker This is located on U. S. Highway 77 two miles north of Homer. It marks the site of the earth lodge of the Omaha Indian town of Tonwantonga.
18. Winnebago Trading Post This site, located 2.5 miles east and .5 mile south of Homer, is the location of a Winnebago Indian Trading Post.
19. Brick House This historic house is located on West 17th Street in South Sioux City.
Sources: SIMPCO, Missouri River Preservation and Development Project (July 1, 1977), pp. 186-226. Nebraska State Historical Society, Historic Preservation in Nebraska (Lincoln: State Historical Society, 1971), pp. 11-12.
1.1.3 Physical Features of Dakota County
Geography
Dakota County, like most of Nebraska, is agricultural in origin with scattered farmsteads throughout the geographic area. Dakota County consists of two main topographic areas: loess-covered uplands and Missouri River bottomlands. The loess-covered uplands, which include the bluff area that borders the Missouri River Valley, lie in the
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northern part of Nebraska’s rolling hills and make up 55 percent of the county. The Missouri River bottomlands include the valleys of creeks that head in the uplands and comprise the other 45 percent.
The south-central part of Dakota County has less relief than any other part of the uplands. Drainage ways in this area have low gradients and are not deeply entrenched. The rest of the uplands are strongly dissected and the drainage ways have steep gradients and entrenched channels.
The lowest elevation in Dakota County, located in the southeastern corner along the Missouri River, is 1,070 feet above sea level. The highest elevation, in the southwest corner, is 1,520 feet. South Sioux City is 1,110 feet above sea level.
The Missouri River bottomlands are nearly flat and broken in places by depressions, oxbows and old channels.
The Missouri River and its tributaries drain most of the county. The Elk, Pigeon and Omaha Creeks, which flow into the Missouri River, are fed by many smaller streams, springs and drainage ways. These creeks flow in a northeasterly direction until they enter the Missouri River bottomlands, at which point Pigeon and Omaha Creeks head easterly and southeasterly. All three creeks are confined to constructed channels.
The Elk and Pigeon Creeks drain the western, northern and central parts of the uplands. Omaha Creek drains the southern part, except for the area along the Dakota -Thurston county line in the southwest corner of the county.
The Missouri River bottomlands in the north, northeast and eastern parts of the county were subject to severe flooding prior to 1955. The river would often flood in March. In June a second rise in water levels would occur due to snow melt in the mountains in the western portion of the Missouri River Basin. Many disastrous floods occurred and greatly damaged parts of Dakota County. Floods of 1943 and 1952 were very severe.
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Missouri River
The large dams constructed on the Missouri River have greatly changed the rivers environment. Fort Peck Dam in Montana was begun in 1933 as a Works Project Administration (WPA) project. The following is construction data for each of the dams.
Missouri River Dam Construction Dates Dam River Mile Start Date Closure Date In Operation Date Ft. Peck 1772 1933 1937 1940 Garrison 1390 1946 1953 1955 Oahe 1072 1948 1958 1962 Big Bend 987 1959 1963 1964 Ft. Randall 880 1946 1952 1953 Gavins Point 811 1953 1955 1955
Source: U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, Reservoir Control Center, Missouri River Division
The channel of the river has been stabilized from river mile 752 (Ponca State Park) to the confluence with the Mississippi River near Alton, Illinois. The channel has been constricted to a 300-foot wide, 9-foot deep navigation channel from river mile 734 (Big Sioux River) to the Mississippi River. Dakota County is therefore served by the inland water navigation system. The development of barge terminals and related facilities is possible.
These dams and river projects have greatly reduced flooding in Dakota County. Quality development in the former Missouri River flood plain is now common. Water clarity has greatly improved on the Missouri River. Beneficial uses of the river include water supply, navigation, recreation, irrigation, and in stream uses.
The construction of the Missouri River dams and navigation channel have, however, caused considerable riverbed degradation. The summer water surface levels on the Missouri River adjacent to Dakota County are now nine to ten feet lower than they were in the pre dam period. This lowering of the river has allowed the drainage and
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cultivation of many acres in Dakota County. This change has also resulted in the loss of those acres for public use backwaters, oxbow lakes, shoots, marshes and wetlands.
Soils
Dakota County consists of eight soil associations (landscaped with distinctive proportional patterns of soil).
Nora-Crofton-Moody 19% Moody-Judson-Crofton 6%
Crofton-Nora-Napier 30%
Omadi-Kennebec-Napier 10% Forney 3% Blyburg-Blencoe-Luton 10% Haynie-Albaton-Onawa 19%
Ida-Monona 3%
The Loess Hills, located along the east bank of the Missouri River, are composed of a fine yellow soil of windblown glacial silt. The U. S. Soil Conservation Service (SCS) completed a special soils survey in 1969 in the urban area for SIMPCO. The soils were then classified for various types of development. The information from both studies was valuable for development and zoning decisions.
For purposes of analysis and general comparisons of the soil associations, a rating formula was devised. Each of the major soils within the soil association (those in the title) was assigned a value of one for each of six use categories for which it had potentially severe limitations.
The categories used were: septic tank absorption fields, sewage lagoons, shallow excavations, dwellings without basements, sanitary landfills, and local roads and streets.
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These total values were then adjusted according to the percentage of the association (minor soils excluded), which each soil comprised. The adjusted values were then summed for comparison purposes. Thus, a value of six would indicate very severe soil limitations for the six uses discussed and a value of zero would indicate the least limitations.
Soil associations in Dakota County, ranked from most to least limitations, are as follows:
Forney 5.76 (most limitations) Ida-Monona 4.74 Crofton-Nora-Napier 4.02 Nora-Crofton-Moody 3.51 Haynie-Albaton-Onawa 3.00 Moody-Judson-Crofton 2.73 Omadi-Kennebec-Napier 2.11 Blyburg-Blencoe-Luton .88 (least limitations) Source: United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service formerly the Soil Conservation Service.
The soil survey information may be obtained at the Planning Commissions of Dakota County and South Sioux City. The information is also available at the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service and SIMPCO.
Map 1-2 and Table 1-1 illustrates principal soils in Dakota County, which appear in the following proportions within the county:
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TABLE 1-1 SOILS SUMMARY - DAKOTA COUNTY
Soil Series Series Description Permeability
Albaton Poorly drained. Bottom lands of Missouri River Slow Valley swales and depressions. Nearly level.
Blencoe Somewhat poorly and poorly soils formed in Slow to moderate drained alluvium under grasses on bottomlands. Surface layer silty clay, 16” thick. Subsoil is firm silty clay in upper 8”, friable silty clay loam in next 6”, and silt loam in lower 6”. Substratum is silt loam. Slopes range from 0% to 2%.
Blyburg Moderately well drained. Bottom lands. Nearly Moderate level to gently sloping.
Crofton Well drained. Western part of uplands; narrow Moderate ridge tops. Gently sloping to steep.
Forney Deep, poorly drained soils formed in alluvium on Very slow bottomlands. These soils have silty clay surface layers 8” thick, underlain by 11 inches of very firm silty clay. The next layer is silty clay buried surface layer, 10” thick over a silty clay buried subsoil. Slopes are less than 1%.
Haynie Moderately well drained. Bottom lands. Nearly Moderate level.
Ida Well drained. Eastern part of uplands in bluffs. Moderate Strongly sloping to very steep.
Judson Well drained. Footslopes, narrow valleys along Moderate drainage ways.
Kennebec Moderately well drained. Bottom lands of upland Moderate drainage ways. Nearly level.
Luton Poorly and very poorly drained soils formed in Slow alluvium under swamp grasses on bottom lands. Surface layer is silty clay, 25” thick. Subsoil is very firm silty clay, 19” thick. Substratum is silty clay. Slopes are less than 1%. Monona Well drained. Uplands. Moderate Moderately sloping to steep
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TABLE 1-1 continued Soil Series Series Description Permeability
Moody Well drained. Uplands. Gently to strongly sloping. Moderately slow
Napier Well drained. Footslopes and bottomlands of Moderate upland drainage ways. Nearly level to strongly sloping.
Nora Well drained. Uplands. Gently sloping. Moderate
Omadi Moderately well drained. Bottom lands. Nearly Moderate level.
Onawa Somewhat poorly drained. Bottom lands. Nearly Slow to moderate level.
Source: United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service formerly the Soil Conservation Service
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MAP 1-2 PRINCIPAL SOILS IN DAKOTA COUNTY
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1.1.4 Climate of South Sioux City
South Sioux City has four distinct seasons. Sunshine ranges from approximately 55 percent in December to nearly 80 percent in July. Wind direction changes frequently all seasons of the year, with average wind velocity reaching about nine miles per hour.
The relative humidity in Nebraska shows a westward decrease across the state, varying from 76 to 65 percent in January and changing to 56 to 84 percent in July. Periods of humidity under 50 percent in Dakota County are uncommon during the summer.
Variations in temperature, precipitation and humidity are provided in Table 1-2. Data was recorded at Norfolk weather station.
TABLE 1-2 TEMPERATURE, PRECIPITATION, AND HUMIDITY IN DAKOTA COUNTY AVERAGES Temperature Precipitation Humidity Rain Snow Month Min. Mean Max. (Inches) (Inches) Morning Afternoon January 08.3 18.1 28.0 0.64 6.9 76 65 February 14.7 24.4 34.0 0.78 6.2 79 65 March 24.8 34.9 45.1 1.81 7.6 80 62 April 37.6 49.6 61.6 2.56 1.6 79 52 May 49.6 61.3 72.9 3.64 0.0 80 53 June 59.4 70.8 82.1 3.93 0.0 82 55 July 64.1 75.2 86.2 3.36 0.0 84 56 August 61.8 72.8 83.9 3.03 0.0 86 58 September 51.4 63.7 76.0 2.59 0.0 83 54 October 39.4 51.9 64.3 1.80 0.8 79 52 November 25.7 36.0 46.3 1.18 3.7 80 60 December 13.9 23.3 32.7 0.67 6.3 79 66 Annual 37.6 48.5 59.4 25.98 33.1 81 58
Source: Nebraska Public Power District, Community Facts July, 2006
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The average last and first frost days, length of the agricultural growing season and wind speeds are illustrated in the chart below.
FROST DATA Average date of last frost in spring May 4 Average date of first frost in fall September 28 Average length of growing season 147 days Average number of “heating degree days” based on 65° Fahrenheit 6,921 Average number of “cooling degree days” based on 65° Fahrenheit 931 Wind speed in miles per hour (annual average) 12 Prevailing wind direction (annual average) South
Source: High Plains Regional Climate Center, University of Nebraska, 1948-2005, and Nebraska Public Power District, Community Facts, July 2006
1.2 Demographic Characteristics
1.2.1 Population Trends
Population and population characteristics are among the most important indicators of the condition of a city. Since 1930 South Sioux City and Dakota County’s populations have shown steady growth. While estimated population figures produced by the U. S. Census Bureau show steady growth from 1930 to 2000, there has been a significant increase from 1990 to 2000 for both South Sioux City and Dakota County. South Sioux City shows a 23.23% increase and Dakota County a 20.97% from 1990 to 2000. Population trends for South Sioux City and Dakota County are shown in Table 1-3 and in graphic form in Figure 1-1.
TABLE 1-3 POPULATION TRENDS, 1930 - 2000 Place 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 South 3,927 4,556 5,557 7,200 07,920 09,339 09,677 11,925 Sioux City Dakota County 9,505 9,836 10,401 12,168 13,137 16,573 16,742 20,253
Source: U.S. Census Data
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FIGURE 1-1 POPULATION TRENDS FROM TABLE 1-3
Population Trends, 1930 - 2000
25,000
20,000
15,000
South Sioux City 10,000 Dakota County
Population 5,000 0 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000
Year
Source: U.S. Census Data
1.2.2 Population by Age
A comparison of births and deaths. The natural increase of population is equal to births minus deaths plus or minus migration. Generally a city with more population in younger age groups (particularly with people in childbearing or family formation years) will experience a higher overall birth rate. Improved medical practices have reduced the death rate, extended life expectancy and improved the quality of life for the older segments of the population.
Table 1-4 illustrates South Sioux City’s 2000 population by age and gender. The highest population numbers of females are under five years, five to nine years and twenty to twenty-four year olds. For males it is under five, twenty-five to twenty-nine years and forty to forty-four year olds. Both female and male populations, sixty-five years and older, are among the lowest percentage of the population.
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TABLE 1-4 POPULATION BY AGE AND GENDER- 2000 South Sioux City
600
500
400
300 Male
Population Female
200
100
0
85+ 5 to 9 80-84 75-79 70-74 65-69 60-64 55-59 50-54 45-49 40-44 35-39 30-34 25-29 20-24 15-19 Under 5 Age Group 10 to 14 Population composition by race and age is an important influence on population growth and community issues. Changes in the racial and ethnic composition of the area population bring social and economic changes. Businesses, educational institutions and governments have developed multi-lingual capabilities and are delivering data and
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information in more than one language. The number of businesses owned or designed to serve the newer residents is increasing.
Table 1-5 illustrates South Sioux City and Dakota County’s 1990 and 2000 demographics by race. Although population is predominantly white, the minority population has increased as a proportion of the total population at a faster rate. South Sioux City’s total minority population increased from 973 in 1990 to 3,851 in 2000, a 22.24% increase. Dakota County’s total minority population increased from 1,746 in 1990 to 5,885 in 2000, a 29.06% increase.
The largest minority populations in 1990 and 2000 for South Sioux City and Dakota County were: 1990 2000 South Sioux City Hispanic or Latino Hispanic or Latino (of any race) 545 (5.63%) (of any race) 2,958 (24.81%)
American Indian/ American Indian/ Alaskan Native 229 (2.37%) Alaskan Native 250 (2.10%)
Asian or Pacific Asian or Pacific Islander 115 (1.19%) Islander 385 (3.23%)
Dakota County Hispanic or Latino Hispanic or Latino (of any race) 1,016 (6.07%) (of any race) 4,581 (22.62%)
American Indian/ American Indian/ Alaskan Native 294 (1.76%) Alaskan Native 339 (1.67%)
Asian or Pacific Asian or Pacific Islander 336 (2.01%) Islander 627 (3.10%%)
1990 2000 Nebraska Hispanic or Latino Hispanic or Latino (of any race) 36,969 (2.34%) (of any race) 94,425 (5.52%)
Black or African Black or African American 56,711 (3.59%) American 67,537 (3.95%) Asian or Pacific Asian or Pacific Islander 12,026 (.76%) Islander 22,324 (1.30%)
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TABLE 1-5 DEMOGRAPHICS BY RACE SOUTH SIOUX CITY AND DAKOTA COUNTY
South Sioux City Dakota County 1990 2000 Percent 1990 2000 Percent Number Percent Number Percent Change Number Percent Number Percent Change Total: 9,677 100.00% 11,925 100.00% 23.23% 16,742 100.00% 20,253 100.00% 20.97% Caucasian 8,704 89.95% 8,074 67.71% -7.24% 14,996 89.57% 14,368 70.94% -4.19% % of Minority 973 10.05% 3,851 32.29% 22.24% 1,746 10.43% 5,885 29.06% 18.63% Black or African American 62 0.64% 96 0.80% 0.16% 74 0.44% 111 0.55% 0.11% American Indian/ Alaskan Native 229 2.36% 250 2.10% -0.26% 294 1.76% 339 1.67% -0.09% Asian or Pacific Islander 115 1.19% 385 3.23% 2.04% 336 2.01% 627 3.10% 1.09% Hispanic/Latino 545 5.63% 2,958 24.80% 19.17% 1,016 6.06% 4,581 22.62% (of any race) 16.56% Some other race alone 22 0.23% 7 0.06% -0.17% 26 0.16% 7 0.03% -0.13% Two or more x x 155 1.30% 1.30% x x 220 1.09% races 1.09%
Source: U.S. Census Data Two or more races was not a category in the 1990 U. S. Census Data but was a category in the 2000 U. S. Census therefore for comparison purposes, a certain amount of adjustment needs to be considered.
Table 1-6 illustrates the State of Nebraska’s 1990 and 2000 demographics by race. The largest minority populations in 1990 and 2000 for Nebraska were:
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TABLE 1-6 DEMOGRAPHICS BY RACE STATE OF NEBRASKA
Nebraska 1990 2000 Percent Number Percent Number Percent Change Total: 1,578,385 100.00% 1,711,263 100.00% 8.42% Caucasian 1,460,095 92.51% 1,494,494 87.33% 2.36% % of Minority 118,290 7.49% 216,769 12.67% 5.17% Black or African American 56,711 3.59% 67,537 3.95% 0.35% American Indian/Alaskan Native 11,719 0.74% 13,460 0.79% 0.04% Asian or Pacific Islander 12,026 0.76% 22,324 1.30% 0.54% Hispanic/Latino (of any race) 36,969 2.34% 94,425 5.52% 3.18% Some other race alone 865 0.05% 1,327 0.08% 0.02% Two or more races x x 17,696 1.03% 1.03%
Figure 1-2 and 1-3 illustrates in graphic form Table 1-5 and Figure 1-4 illustrates Table 1-6 data with rounded percentages.
Figure 1-2
South Sioux City Demographics 2000
68% Caucasian Black or African American American Indian/Alaskan Native Asian or Pacific Islander Hispanic or Latino (of any race) Some other race alone 1% 1% Two or more races 2% 0% 3% 25%
Source: U.S. Census Data
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Figure 1-3 Dakota County Demographics 2000
70% Caucasian
Black or African American American Indian/Alaskan Native
Asian or Pacific Islander Hispanic or Latino (of any race)
Some other race alone 1% 1% Two or more races 0% 2% 3% 23%
Source: U.S. Census Data Figure 1-4
Nebraska Demographics 2000
68% Caucasian
Black or African American
American Indian/Alaskan Native
Asian or Pacific Islander
Hispanic or Latino (of any race)
Some other race alone 1% 1% Two or more races 2% 0% 3% 25%
Source: U.S. Census Data
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1.2.3 Population Projections
Population characteristics and projections are very important indicators for planning purposes. Developing policies, which will take advantage of potentials for population growth, is a critical priority for South Sioux City.
South Sioux City’s population continues to grow due to its location and aggressive development activities of local governments, educational institutions, businesses and organizations. Because of this type of activity, a positive movement of growth has taken place accommodating the immigration of a diverse population.
The U. S. Census provides population forecasts. Table 1-7 illustrated South Sioux City and Dakota County population and forecasts from 1930 to 2010.
TABLE 1-7 POPULATION TRENDS AND FORECASTS 1930 - 2010 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 South Sioux City 3,927 4,556 5,557 7,200 7,920 9,339 9,677 11,925 13,211 Dakota County 9,505 9,836 10,401 12,168 13,137 16,573 16,742 20,253 21,641
Source: U.S. Census Data
2.0 PUBLIC WORKS
Decisions concerning the installation of public utilities greatly influence and are influenced by the direction and intensity of a community’s growth. All development requires adequate utilities, whether they are publicly or privately owned. Lack of planning for these utility extensions can result in poorly located, less efficient and more expensive systems.
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It is important that during the comprehensive planning process, government officials and residents agree on future growth areas for each category of land (e.g., residential, commercial, industrial, etc.).
Once decisions have been made concerning future growth areas. Plans can be drawn up for phased improvements to the existing utility systems. Development can be restricted to areas along new or proposed utility lines in an orderly and efficient manner. Thus growth can be anticipated and the provision of facilities can be planned.
Currently the City is planning 3 areas that are being classified as redevelopment areas. These areas are as follows: 1. Area 1 – bounded on the North and South by East 13th Street and East 17th Street and bounded on the East and West by Dakota Avenue and C Street. 2. Area 2 – bounded on the North and South by East 21st Street and East 25th Street and bounded on the East and West by Dakota Avenue and C Street. 3. Area 3 – bounded on the North and South by West 19th Street and West 26th Street and bounded on the East and West by Dakota Avenue and 5th Avenue.
2.1 Transportation
2.1.1 External Transportation The tri-state area (Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota) is served by a well-developed highway system. Interstate 29 runs parallel to the Missouri River connecting with principal east-west routes. Interstate 80 is approximately 90 miles south and Interstate 90 is approximately 85 miles north. Interstate 29 intersects with federal and state highways, including U.S. Highways 20 and 77 and State Highways Iowa 12 and Nebraska 35, which serve the entire tri-state area.
Interstate Highway 129 (I-129) and U.S. Highway 20 and 75/77 all serve as the primary routes to and in Dakota County. State Highway 35 connects the urban area with Wayne and Norfolk. State Highway 110 connects U.S. Highway 20 with State Highway 35. State Highway 12 connects U.S. Highway 20 with Ponca and areas west. The county
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road system connects other Dakota County communities, agricultural areas and points of interest. U. S. Highway 75 south and State Highway 12 are both scenic byways.
Approximate highway mileage from South Sioux City to major cities:
DESTINATION MILEAGE Omaha, Nebraska 98 Miles Lincoln, Nebraska 153 Miles Chicago, Illinois 534 Miles Dallas, Texas 816 Miles Denver, Colorado 634 Miles Detroit, Michigan 801 Miles Kansas City, Missouri 278 Miles Los Angeles, California 1,648 Miles Minneapolis, Minnesota 357 Miles New York, New York 1,308 Miles St. Louis, Missouri 530 Miles San Francisco, California 1,763 Miles Sioux Falls, South Dakota 82 Miles Sioux City, Iowa 2 Miles
Interstate and intrastate freight carriers with 31 local terminals adequately serve the Siouxland area. Intercity and intracity bus, transit and taxi services are also available in the Siouxland area.
Barge service is available at 10 barge terminals on the Missouri River in the region. The Siouxland (Sioux City and South Sioux City) area is the northern most point of navigation on the Missouri River. These river ports are navigable approximately eight months per year.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers maintains a 9-foot deep, 300-foot wide channel for 735 navigable miles from Sioux City, Iowa to the mouth of the Missouri River. Commodities transported by towing companies are alfalfa pellets, cement, concrete
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forms, distillers’ dried grain, feed, feed ingredients, fertilizer, grain, machinery, molasses, newsprint, nitrogen fertilizer solution, propylene glycol, rock-aggregate, salt, steel, and twine.
The Sioux Gateway Airport in Sioux City, Iowa, is the major metropolitan airport serving the tri-state area. Located adjacent to Interstate 29, the airport is a Class A all weather commercial airport situated seven miles from South Sioux City.
The Sioux Gateway Airport has two paved and lighted runways (6,599 feet and 9,002 feet), hangars, fuel, maintenance, storage, training, cargo ticket counters, car agency counters, dining area, and baggage claim facilities. A full service Fixed Based Operator (FBO) with hangars and service is available for all types of private corporate aircraft. The FBO can meet charter aircraft needs.
There are 100 to 150 private planes hangared there; three are available for charter. The elevation at the airport is 1,100 feet, the latitude is 42° 27’ N and the longitude is 96° 28’ W. Northwest Airlines serves the airport with daily flights to Minneapolis, Minnesota. Frontier Airlines serves the airport with flights to Denver, Colorado.
The nearest airfield in Dakota County for private planes is Martin’s Field, located two miles west of South Sioux City on U. S Highway 20. Martin’s Field has two runways (one 3,323-foot paved and lighted and a 1,950-foot turf runway), hangars, and fuel. There are 28 private planes hangared there; none are available for charter. The elevation at the airport is 1,100 feet, the latitude is 42° 27’ 25’N and the longitude is 96° 28’ 35’ W.
2.1.2 Internal Transportation
South Sioux City’s street and highway system includes federal and state highways, network of arterial, collector and residential streets. Motor freight and ground transportation in South Sioux
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City is facilitated by a well-developed street system. City streets are connected to a well-developed highway system. Interstate 29 intersects with dozens of federal and state highways, including U.S. Highways 20 and 77 and State Highways Iowa 12 and Nebraska 35.
South Sioux City’s street maintenance program includes street sweeping, flushing, snow removal, crack filling, panel replacements and routine maintenance. Map 2-1 illustrates existing major roads and highways in South Sioux City. U.S. Highways 77 and 20; and Nebraska Highway 35 serve South Sioux City. Map 2-2 illustrates major roads and highways in South Sioux City. The dotted lines designate future roads planned in South Sioux City.
Map 2-3 illustrates the preferred truck route on streets in South Sioux City. The blue line displays the truck route on the following streets:
Dakota Avenue West 29th street East and west 39th street East and west 9th street East 6th street 5th Avenue G street
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Map 2-1 South Sioux City - Existing Streets and Highways Map
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Map 2-2 South Sioux City - Future Streets and Highways Map
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Map 2-3 South Sioux City - Truck Route Map
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South Sioux City maintains a street capital improvement program to ensure that streets are adequately maintained, repaired, replaced and constructed in new development areas of the city. This plan outlines the current and proposed street improvements over a six year period. Street capital improvement plans should be reviewed annually while preparing for annual budgets to determine whether there are any revisions that need to be made.
The cost of the capital improvements must correlate with the financial capacity of the city to maintain a sound financial basis. The following street capital improvement schedule illustrates South Sioux City’s current and future planned improvements.
Table 2-1 illustrates South Sioux City’s Street Capital Improvement Schedule from fiscal year ending 2005 to 2011.
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TABLE 2-1 SOUTH SIOUX CITY SCHEDULE OF STREET CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS Fiscal Year Ending 2006 to 2011 STREET PROJECTS 05/06 06/07 07/08 08/09 09/10 10/11 Funding Source STP & CMAQ Funds East 29th Street - C to Bike Trail $ 175,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - East 6th Street - B to G $ 500,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - Dakota Avenue Overlay - 17th to 29th $ 25,000.00 $ 1,150,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - STP, NCPA, & Sales Tax East 9th Street from B to G $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - East 17th Street from AOL to Riverview $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - 5th Ave from West 13th to West 21st $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - Dakota Avenue Overlay - Pilot Project $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - RR Crossing Upgrades - Quiet Zones $ - $ 375,000.00 $ 375,000.00 $ - $ - $ - NDOR, BNSF, & Sales Tax ITS Projects $ 100,000.00 $ 100,000.00 $ - $ - $ - NDOR & City Sales Tax CDBG Funds East 15th, 16th, 17th from Dakota to B $ - $ 611,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - East 22nd & 23rd Street from Dakota to B $ - $ - $ 861,000.00 $ - $ - $ - East 24th Street & A Street from Dakota to B $ - $ - $ - $ 861,000.00 $ - $ - West 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th, & 25th Dakota to 4th Ave. $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 538,000.00 $ 538,000.00 Sales Tax Random Panel Replacement $ 75,000.00 $ 75,000.00 $ 75,000.00 $ 75,000.00 $ 75,000.00 $ 75,000.00 All America Sub. - College Way Ext. $ 130,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - NECC, Sales Tax $ $ East 48th Street Extension $ 150,000.00 $ - $ - - $ 145,000.00 - All America Sub. Streets $ - $ 140,000.00 $ 100,000.00 $ - $ - $ - Cornhusker Way $ - $ 260,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - East 26th Street Dakota to A $ - $ - $ 33,000.00 $ 33,000.00 $ - $ - East 34th Street - Dakota to C $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 301,000.00 East 31st Street from Dakota to C $ - $ - $ - $ 208,000.00 $ - $ - 9th Avenue from 9th Street to Golf Rd $ - $ - $ 162,000.00 $ - $ - $ - Storm Water Study $ 70,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - El Dorado Way from Sierra to El Paso $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 152,000.00 $ 152,000.00
TOTAL $1,225,000.00 $ 2,711,000.00 $ 1,606,000.00 $1,177,000.00 $ 910,000.00 Source: South Sioux City, Public Works Director STP – Surface Transportation Program ITS – Intelligent Transportation System CDBG – Community Development Block Grant South Sioux City Comprehensive Plan Page 33
2.2 Water System
Two factors govern the design of a community’s water system:
♦ Capacity needed to meet the maximum daily water consumption for residential, commercial and industrial uses.
♦ The capacity and pressure necessary for fire protection.
The minimum requirements require that storage meet the average daily demand for water and the well capacity should meet the peak daily demand in any 24-hour period.
Public health drinking water standards, compatible with the National Safe Drinking Water Act, as amended, are the basis for all state standards applied to Nebraska cities. These standards specify maximum limits for coliform bacteria and for certain contaminants. Concentrations in excess of these limits are not allowed.
In addition, certain minerals not affecting the safety of the water for human consumption affect its potability and its practical domestic applications. Iron and manganese are two problem minerals in area ground water.
2.2.1 Source and Storage
South Sioux City’s municipal ground water system is supplied by five wells, which have an average depth of 154 feet and also a 16 inch water main from Sioux City, Iowa. The system, which serves 99 percent of the population, has a combined maximum pumping capacity of 4,700 gallons per minute (GPM). The system has an overhead storage capacity of 1,000,000 gallons comprised of four 250,000-gallon storage tanks.
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The average daily demand is 2,250,000 gallons per day (GPD) and the historic peak daily demand is 4,700,000 gallons per day (GPD). The system has a maximum capacity of 7,760,000 gallons per day. The water supply in South Sioux City is provided mostly by wells.
The amount of ground water estimated to be stored in permeable materials at reasonable depths in Dakota County, which includes South Sioux City, is shown on Map 2-4. This does not include water stored in older bedrock formations, which may be of low quality. It does not include water stored in the finer-textured materials interbedded with more permeable materials.
Map 2-5 illustrates ground water quality in Nebraska. The majority of Dakota County has low nitrate levels of less than 7.5mg/l (milligrams per liter) which includes the South Sioux City area. South Sioux City has some of the lowest nitrate levels in the state indicating high ground water quality. South Sioux City has mostly silty and loamy soils with a water table less than 30 feet below the surface which gives this area a moderate vulnerability to groundwater contamination.
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MAP 2-4 GROUND WATER STORAGE IN DAKOTA COUNTY
So
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MAP 2-4 LEGEND
Dakota County Map Legend
Silty and loamy soils with a water table less than 30 feet below the surface. These areas have a moderate vulnerability to groundwater contamination. Even though the soils restrict the downward movement of pesticides, the water table is less than 30 feet below the surface and caution should be used. Generally silty and loamy soils with a water table less than 30 feet below the surface. Much of this area has a moderate vulnerability to groundwater contamination because the water table is less than 30 feet below the surface. Some parts have sand, loamy sand or sandy loam soils with little organic matter and high vulnerability to groundwater contamination. Extreme caution should be used in sandy areas. Caution should be used throughout the entire area.
Silty and loamy soils with a water table greater than 30 feet below the surface. These areas have a slight vulnerability to groundwater contamination. 1976 Soil Survey of Dakota County, Nebraska by the United States Department of Agricultures Natural Resource Conservation and Survey Division, University of Nebraska at Lincoln (UNL). Configuration of the Water Table, Spring 1979, Sioux City Quadrangle, Nebraska Conservation and Survey Division, UNL, GM-54.
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MAP 2-5 GROUND WATER QUALITY IN NEBRASKA
Water Quality Assessment Section, Nebraska, December, 2003. Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality, Groundwater Unit
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2.2.2 Water Treatment
South Sioux City’s water system has two water treatment plants (iron and manganese removal; fluoride and chlorine added), which have a combined peak capacity of 4,400,000 gallons per day (GPD) of treated water. In addition, a 14 inch water main connects to Sioux City, Iowa’s municipal water system which has a capacity of 2,700,000 GPD of treated water. This water main provides South Sioux City with a third water source making available a total of 7,220,000 GPD of treated water which assists in meeting summer peak demands, additional fire usage, water wells and treatment plants.
The Riverview Water Treatment Plant, built in 1984, is an iron and manganese removal plant with a design capacity of 3,320,000 GPD. The treatment process at this plant utilizes horizontal pressure filter vessels and includes aeration, flocculation, sedimentation, and filtration with post chlorination and fluoridation. The B Street Water Treatment Plant, built in 1956, is also an iron and manganese removal plant with a design capacity of 1,500,000 GPD. The treatment process at this plant utilizes rapid sand gravity filter and includes aeration, sedimentation, and filtration with post chlorination and fluoridation. The end product of these treatment facilities is water which is clear in color with a hardness of 500 to 520 parts per million. The average tap water temperature ranges from 55 in winter and 57 in summer.
Chemical Analysis (parts per million) Hydrogen Ion Concentration 7.79 Calcium 104 Total Solids 603 Magnesium 30.0 Iron .20 Nitrates .4 Manganese .02 Chlorides .18 Fluoride .95 Sulfates 228 Total Alkalinity 270 Sodium 62.0 Total Hardness 520 Potassium 6.7
Source: Nebraska Public Power District, Community Facts, July 2006
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2.2.3 Water Distribution System
South Sioux City’s first water distribution system was constructed in the early 1900s. This system consisted of a network of two and four inch water mains. The current water distribution system is comprised of 815 valves with 427 fire hydrants to ensure an adequate supply of water for fire protection. The system has a static pressure of 55 per square inch (psi) and a residual pressure of approximately 40 psi. This system supplies water in compliance with federal and state standards to over 4075 services in and around South Sioux City.
South Sioux City maintains a water capital improvement program to ensure that services and facilities are adequately maintained, repaired, replaced and constructed in new development areas of the city.
This plan outlines the current and proposed water improvements over a six year period. Water capital improvement plans should be reviewed annually while preparing for annual budgets to determine whether there are any revisions that need to be made.
The cost of the capital improvements must correlate with the financial capacity of the city to maintain a sound financial basis. Table 2-2 is a schedule of the water utilities capital improvement projects from 2006 to 2011.. The following water capital improvement schedule illustrates South Sioux City’s current and future planned improvements.
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TABLE 2-2 SOUTH SIOUX CITY SCHEDULE OF WATER IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
Water Projects 05/06 06/07 07/08 08/09 09/10 10/11 Funding Source East 29th Street - C to G $ 81,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - Combined Utility 1st Ave. Water Tower Painting $ 75,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - Combined Utility Westside Loop $ 750,000.00 $ 750,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - EDA & SRF Loan East 15th & 16th Main Replacement $ - $ 111,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - East 22nd & 23rd Main Replacement $ - $ - $ 120,000.00 $ - $ - $ - East 24th Street Main Replacement $ - $ - $ - $ 60,000.00 $ - $ - West 22nd & 23rd Main Replacement $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 110,000.00 $ - West 24th & 25th Main Replacement $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 108,000.00 Automate Riverview WTP $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 150,000.00 $ - Combined Utility Design & Construct New Well $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 150,000.00 $ - SRF Loan
Expand Riverview WTP $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 150,000.00 $1,500,000.00 SRF Loan Replace 4" Water Mains - Citywide $ - $ 50,000.00 $ 80,000.00 $ 80,000.00 $ 80,000.00 $ 80,000.00 Combined Utility Valve Replacement $ - $ - $ 30,000.00 $ 30,000.00 $ - $ -
TOTAL $ 906,000.00 $ 911,000.00 $ 230,000.00 $ 170,000.00 $ 640,000.00 $1,688,000.00 Source: South Sioux City, Public Works Director GIS – Geographical Information System WTP – Water Treatment Plant DEQ – Department of Environmental Quality
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2.3 Sanitary Sewer System
The sanitary sewer system in South Sioux City is municipally owned and operated. The sewer collection system is comprised of 12 lift stations and approximately 40 miles of sewer main ranging from 6 inches to 24 inches with approximately 850 manholes as access points to maintain the system. South Sioux City services 3,190 residential and 470 commercial customers.
The system pumps sewage under the Missouri River by pipeline to the Sioux City Sewage Treatment Plant, which has a peak capacity of 30 million gallons per day (MGPD). The plant has an average flow of 1,150,000 gallons per day (GPD) and provides both primary and secondary treatment of sewage with ample capacity is available for future growth.
South Sioux City’s average discharge to Sioux City is 1,500,000 gallons per day and the historical peak flow is 2,500,000 gallons per day. A second Missouri River Crossing is planned for fiscal year 2007/2008. Table 1-3 is a capital project schedule for the sanitary sewer utility from 2006 to 2011.
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TABLE 2-3 SOUTH SIOUX CITY SCHEDULE OF SANITARY SEWER PROJECTS
Sanitary Sewer Projects 05/06 06/07 07/08 08/09 09/10 10/11 Funding Source Shore Place Lift Station & FM $ 50,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - Combined Utility GIS Mapping $ 75,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - Combined Utility CDBG(50%) Siouxland Estates Lift Station & FM $ 242,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - ARC(50%) EPA, Grants, SRF 2nd Sewer Crossing $ 150,000.00 $ 2,950,000.00 $ - $ - $ - $ - Loan Eliminate 34th Street Lift Station $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 500,000.00 SRF Loan Manhole Replacement & Main Repairs $ - $ - $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00
TOTAL $ 517,000.00 $ 2,950,000.00 $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00 $ 50,000.00 Source: South Sioux City, Public Works Director GIS – Geographical Information System SRF – State Revolving Loan Fund
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2.4 Storm Sewer System
The storm system in South Sioux City is municipally owned and operated. The storm system has pipes ranging in size from 6 to 84 inches. There are thirteen storm sewer outlets from South Sioux City that drain into the Missouri River. The two main outlets are the east-side and west-side drainage ditches.
2.5 Electrical System
The South Sioux City municipal electric system is owned and managed by the city. Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) operates and distributes electricity in the city through an operation and maintenance partnership with the city and NPPD. South Sioux City is provided with 69,000-volt power supplied by a NPPD substation located four and one-half miles southwest of the city, which provides a two-way feed to the city’s seven distribution substations. The distribution substations have a total transformer capacity of approximately 55,000 kVA. A 230,000-volt line from Norfolk, Nebraska, a 230,000-volt line from the United States Bureau of Reclamation substation at Hinton, Iowa, and two 115,000-volt lines, one from the south and one from the west supply power for the NPPD substation. The present capacity of the NPPD substation serving South Sioux City is 98,000 kVA. The lines furnishing power are a part of the NPPD statewide grid system. The distribution voltage is 12,470 kVA and covers seven square miles. Seven substations located throughout the city supply this system. Eighty percent of the electrical system is underground, improving reliability and reducing storm and animal-caused outages.
2.6 Natural Gas
South Sioux City has a gas aggregation agreement with MidAmerican Energy. Gas aggregation normally reduces gas customers’ natural gas bills.
Northern Natural Gas Company (DYNERGY) is the pipeline supplier. The pressure of the four-inch pipeline serving the community is 50 pounds. Natural gas is available for
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residential and commercial uses. Firm gas service can be made available for residential and commercial uses. A firm supply of gas for industrial uses is negotiable and dependent upon volume and end-use requirements.
Propane gas and oil are available for residential, commercial, and industrial purposes from private providers in South Sioux City.
Fiber Optics/Technology
South Sioux City’s technology mission is to enhance the quality of life in the community through the promotion and use of technology. The technology department is responsible for the maintenance of the city’s communications infrastructure including the fiber optic network, wireless broadband network, computer network, phone systems, radio communications, on-line utility bill, and the municipal web site.
In 1997, the City of South Sioux City began exploring the possibility of building a fiber optic network in the city. A partnership was formed between the City of South Sioux City, CableOne and the South Sioux City Community School District to partner as a connected community. The fiber optic network would be used by: the city to promote community economic development, CableOne to upgrade its network to a hybrid fiber optic coaxial digital network capable of providing affordable high-speed Internet access, and the school district to connect all schools together enhancing technological and educational capabilities.
In 1998, construction of the fiber optic network began. The fiber optic network was wisely engineered in a ring topology providing alternate routes for the fiber access in the event of a fiber break.
In 2001, most of South Sioux City’s buildings were linked via a fiber optic network eliminating the need for the costly data circuits leased from the telephone company. The single mode fiber optic ring allows built-in redundancy for assurance of data
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transmission. City staff has the technical expertise and the equipment to maintain the ring. The fiber optic ring is constructed of 144 fibers with spurs reaching various points in the community. The city can lease dark fiber from point to point within the community allowing businesses to maintain separate facilities in various parts of the community. Wide Area Networking (WAN) can be provided as well as point-to-point connections.
The city also maintains its own Internet Protocol (IP) network, providing server and email functions for the public and private entities. The fiber optic infrastructure is also the backbone network for future development of high-speed data services, including Internet and Voice over IP (VoIP).
All major long distance service providers offer phone service and dual fiber optic feed from their digital central switching office. Service is monitored on-site and is on a self- healing fiber ring. Dual feed is available from two separate switching offices. South Sioux City is a hardwire Point of Presence (POP) community. Local exchange carriers, diverse routing, T1 and fractional T1 voice and data circuits are available through the city and several private providers.
South Sioux City offers high-speed Internet access, maintains its own digital connection to the World Wide Web (Web). Internet access is available through several local providers who have partnered with the city in the use of the municipal fiber optic network.
The South Sioux City Community School District and CableOne have fully connected to the fiber optic network. Leadership of the school district, which serves approximately 3,300 students, decided to connect all of the school buildings via an extremely powerful method of optical transport called ATM or Asynchronous Transfer Mode. ATM is a powerful method of transport, connection orientated with a guaranteed quality of service.
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This technology increased the district’s Intranet and Internet capabilities. The district had previously leased an expensive Frame Relay network with limited capacity and a slower speed connection of 56 thousand bits per second (kbps).
With the fiber optic network, the schools Intranet realized a high-speed Internet connection of 1,230 thousand bits per second (kbps) and Local Area Network speeds of 155 million bits per second (Mbps) or Optical Carrier - 3 (OC-3). Advanced speeds and capacity of this nature have given teachers and students infinite capabilities reducing barriers to enhance students learning capabilities. South Sioux City High School now offers a Cisco Academy to train juniors and seniors in computer networking.
In 2008 the City of South Sioux City completed its 3rd fiber crossing under the Missouri River providing a redundant, diverse route for the vital communications link between Iowa and Nebraska.
Map 2-6 illustrates South Sioux City’s Fiber Optic Network
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MAP 2-6 SOUTH SIOUX CITY FIBER OPTIC NETWORK MAP
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Wireless Technology
In April 2002, the City of South Sioux City was awarded a Community Technology Fund grant from the Nebraska Information Technology Commission. The grant funding paved the way for the implementation of a wireless municipal area network that utilizes 802.11b technology to deliver high-speed wireless connectivity to “Hot-Spots” or wireless access connection points throughout the community. The grant proposal was a joint project of the City of South Sioux City, South Sioux City Community School District and the South Sioux City Police and Fire Departments.
The idea for the wireless network came from a need to get network connectivity for Internet and e-mail to the city’s re-located Parks and Recreation Department to the river front Scenic Park Campground area. This area is a beautiful location for an office; however, it was not financially viable to extend the city’s fiber optic network to that area. South Sioux City already had fiber optic connectivity to the Riverview water treatment plant, which is located about a half mile from the Parks and Recreation Department offices.
After some research, Cisco Aironet was chosen to provide a wireless bridge from the water treatment plant to the new Parks and Recreation Department offices. The wireless bridge performed so well an interest was born to explore further uses of wireless technology.
The South Sioux City Police Department had recently been funded by a COPS grant to implement mobile data computing in police vehicles. Mobile data is an extremely valuable tool for law enforcement but due to bandwidth constraints file transfers are limited to simple text files.
The idea for the high-speed wireless network for the police department was to enhance the capabilities of the mobile data computers. Several “Hot-Spots” or access points are located in each patrol zone. They are located at the Law Enforcement Center (both
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indoor and outdoor access points), gas pumps at the public works yard and the high school and junior high complex.
The wireless network runs at a speed of 11 Mbps, which is many times faster than the traditional radio data utilized by the mobile data computers. The network is not intended to blanket the town with coverage. Yet, a police officer is never more than a couple of minutes away from an access point and does not have to leave his or her patrol zone to access the network. All an officer has to do is drive to within several blocks of an access point, park and log in on their computers. The officer then has access to the police database, e-mail and high-speed Internet that is housed at the Law Enforcement Center.
Access to high speed Internet has become a powerful tool that allows South Sioux City police officers to become the first in the state to access the Nebraska Criminal Justice Information System (NCJIS) from their patrol car. Officers now have a wealth of information at their fingertips.
Another main objective of the wireless network for public safety is to give access to the state-of-the-art security system at the junior/senior high school complex. Through the wireless network, police are able to view, live from the patrol car, the video from each of 48 different security cameras.
The installation of an access point in the South Sioux City Public Library has created alternative locations for computing. The library purchased two laptop computers that can be checked out to patrons for use in the library. This is a great enhancement to public access computing; patrons and students can use the wireless technology to sit where they feel comfortable to use the Internet or do homework. The access point even reaches the basement where it has been utilized for classes and story hour for children.
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The South Sioux City Community School is finding innovative uses for the wireless access points. Science students have used wireless enabled laptops to identify flora and fauna real-time over the Internet from the school arboretum. The athletic department uses the wireless to track weather radar in real-time and to post live updates and scores to the web. There are even future plans of web casting video of high school football games from a wireless access point. The coverage in the bleachers and press box is excellent. An access-point was installed at the administration building that allows the teachers, administration and school board to connect to the school network, Internet, and email from the boardroom and administration office areas as well.
The South Sioux City Fire Department has a project under way to use a GPS (Geographical Positioning System) locator and Geographical Information System (GIS) software to produce highly accurate maps of all of the fire hydrants in town. This information as well as hazardous materials data and terrorist updates is readily available through the wireless network.
The South Sioux City Public Works Department is putting the wireless technology to work by utilizing 802.11b enabled Compaq IPAQs to access the water department SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system. The system is capable of monitoring and controlling wells and water treatment plants throughout the city.
Several lessons have been learned throughout the implementation of this project. Early experiments utilized a single omni directional antenna on the access point. Further experimentation has proven that two omni directional antennas set up in what is called a diversity configuration is far superior to single antennas. The two antennas in a diversity configuration effectively cancel the multi-path that is a common problem with the 2.4 gigahertz (Ghz) frequency utilized by the access points.
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Evertek, Inc., and South Sioux City have formed a joint partnership to offer a low cost Non-Line of Sight (NLOS) High-speed Wireless Internet service to its residents and businesses as well as rural areas within approximately 15 miles of the city limits.
Evertek and NextNet launched the industry’s first commercial NLOS plug-and-play broadband services in Pocahontas, IA in December 2001. Today, Evertek has expanded commercial coverage to 10 additional rural markets, including Sioux Rapids, Kingsley, Cherokee, Marcus, Schaller, Ocheyedan, Sheldon, Holstein, and Ida Grove, IA, with populations ranging from 1,245 to 9,200. Evertek holds the MMDS License (2.5-2.686GHz) BTAs for Mason City, Sioux City, and Fort Dodge, Iowa,
Evertek is a locally owned and operated communications provider of Internet, television and telephone in northwest Iowa. The company was founded in 1905 under United Farmers Telephone and started offering Wireless Service in 1989. The City of South Sioux City, a city with a population of 11,900 located in Northeast Nebraska, is a well known technology leader in the state with a vision for the future.
Under the terms of the partnership, the City purchased the necessary equipment for the base stations, is providing space on two water towers for antennas and will provide billing services, product demonstrations and assist with marketing. Evertek will provide the FCC license for the MMDS service, connection to the Internet backbone, tech support, customer premise equipment (CPE), and marketing services.
The equipment for the wireless system transmits and receives signals to and from the CPE in the customers’ homes and business. Evertek then provides the backhaul to the Internet. The non-line of site system allows the CPE to be placed nearly anywhere in the customer’s home or business and is not affected by trees, buildings or other obstructions. The customer will have a choice of a self install to avoid any fees associated with start up or having to take time off of work for an installation appointment or may have a technician professionally install the device.
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The cutting edge technology will be utilized by the City of South Sioux City for many high-tech applications particularly for public safety. The system is fully functional in a mobile environment and will be used by local and state law enforcement agencies and fire departments to access information in real-time from the patrol car, ambulance or fire truck.
The fire department provided valuable assistance to the project by allowing their 105 foot ladder truck to be used to put an access point on a water tower. Since the access points are basically a line-of–sight technology, mounting the access point near the top of the water tower greatly increases their range of coverage. Client adaptors purchased with the grant funds are installed in the laptop computers and have integrated antennas. The client adaptors are easy to install and provide 128 bit Wired Equivalency Protocol (WEP) encryption for security. Cisco offers a client adaptor that has tiny MMCX (connector for coaxial cable) connectors that allow for a remote antenna to be plugged in. The remote antenna is actually two small antennas in a diversity configuration that can be placed on the dashboard or stuck to the window of a patrol car. This is the optimum set-up and nearly doubles the effective coverage of the network.
Wireless Ethernet networking is no longer an emerging technology. All of the major equipment manufacturers have a wireless product offering. Most of the equipment is easy to install and is very reliable. Applications for the utilization of the hot spots are limited only by the imagination. South Sioux City is constantly looking for ways to expand the use of their wireless network and continuing to install additional wireless access points on top of the other water towers in the city propagating the network in a whole new section of the city.
South Sioux City has also implemented a state of the art Emergency Vehicle Traffic Signal Pre-emption System called Opticom. South Sioux City and the Nebraska State Department Roads funded this project jointly. Opticom works by installing optical sensors on traffic arms at busy intersections. Signal emitters were installed on the city’s emergency vehicle and rescue units.
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When one of the vehicles approaches a busy intersection, the vehicle operator can turn on a switch that sends a pre-emption signal from a signal emitter on the emergency vehicle to the optical sensor on the traffic arm. The sensor on the traffic arm receives the signal and changes the traffic signal in the opposing directions from yellow to red and green in the direction of travel for the emergency vehicle. The traffic signal stays green until the emergency vehicle has passed through the intersection.
In September of 2006 Long Lines of Sergeant Bluff, Iowa announced their intention to build a state-of-the-art Fiber To The Home (FTTH) network in South Sioux City. With a partnership formed between Long Lines and the City of South Sioux City, there is now fiber to 99% of all homes and businesses within city limits. As a franchisee of the city, Long Lines now provides advanced communications services over the fiber network for businesses and cable TV, broadband internet, local and long distance phone service and cellular service for residents. Through a memorandum of understanding between the city and Long Lines, the city has acquired access to a minimum of 1 Megabit of bandwidth on the fiber network to each business and residence served by Long Lines in order to provide city services such as automatic meter reading, load control and a citywide Intranet.
The City has also purchased 4 more Q-Star graffiti cameras to deter illegal trash dumping and graffiti tagging. In 2009 the city will purchase a total of 12 more deterrent systems to increase our capability of covering trouble areas. These systems are solar- powered, self-contained units with motion detectors. The Fiber Optic Department as well as police can download photos directly to a laptop from the comfort of their vehicles.
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Q-Star FlashCam 880
South Sioux City has also installed cameras at the new YMCA facility and at 21st and Dakota Avenues. Including cameras located throughout South Sioux City Schools, the city now maintains nearly 200 cameras. All cameras are accessible to police officers 24/7 from their patrol cars using the wireless network.
South Sioux City is also producing a minimum of one PodCast per month. PodCasts are published on YouTube, iTunes and on the City website at www.southsiouxcity.org
The Fiber Optics Department is also responsible for the City’s holiday display. This year, with the help from South Sioux City Chamberettes, The Watchful Eye Foundation, and Jr. Optimists Club and Youth Leadership Foundation, a display was presented at Dakota Gardens across from City Hall. With music synchronized by the Communications Director, the display was broadcast on a low-band FM station for all to enjoy.
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2.8 Parks and Recreation Facilities
South Sioux City and the Sioux City urban areas are located along the Lewis and Clark Expedition Route. Portions of the tri-state areas (Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota), as well as three waterways (the Big Sioux, Floyd and Missouri Rivers), converge there. Hunting for deer, duck, goose, pheasant and coyote are popular. Fishing for catfish, trout, bass and other fish is popular in the area’s rivers and lakes. The tri-state area provides a wealth of recreational opportunities for the sports and outdoor enthusiasts throughout four distinct seasons of the year. Some of the activities are cross-country skiing, horseback riding, ice hockey, in-season horse racing and National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) stock car racing.
Among the many points of interest in the urban areas are approximately 60 municipal parks and one state park. Park facilities include shelter, picnic tables and grills, rowboats; canoes and paddleboats; hiking and jogging trails; trails equipped for wheel chairs, playground equipment, baseball/softball diamonds and soccer fields.
Most recreational land is located within a short traveling distance of key residential areas. Various sites include: Sergeant Floyd Riverboat Museum/Welcome Center, Anderson Dance Pavilion, McCook Lake, Floyd Monument, Cimmarina, Crystal Cove and Scenic Park Campground.
Crystal Cove located near South Sioux City is an exceptional urban park that was created through innovative efforts between governments and a highway contractor. The Sioux City Urban Area Trail System allows access to open areas and recreational sites and is near the South Sioux City Trail System. It is a series of trails made up of different materials in different locations. Concrete or asphalt primarily provides a great surface for walking, bicycling, running, cross-country skiing or roller-blading. The Iowa link is south of Chautauqua Park, running along the Missouri River. The South Dakota link is north of the McCook Lake area, moving toward Vermillion and Yankton. The Nebraska link moves west from Crystal Cove to the Niobrara State Park region.
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The City of South Sioux City developed a community walkway/bikeway trail system and a Community Arboretum. The Arboretum link and the Cardinal Park Complex function as key transportation links between the other walkway/bikeway segments. This trail system allows baseball, soccer, tennis and football participants of the Cardinal Park Complex to travel safely to and from the sports complex.
A new trail addition was constructed to Dakota City, Nebraska in 2006. An additional segment in South Sioux City is the West 39th Timberline to Dakota section of the citywide trail system, which provides a vital connecting link from the southwest subdivisions. It provides a safe and defined conduit accessing the recreational and educational facilities lying east of Dakota Avenue.
Scenic Park and the out door pool known as the Aquaplex offers many water activities for all ages such as the American Red Cross Learn to Swim Program, life-guard training, water exercise, lap swim and pool rentals.
Sports facilities in the area include the new YMCA, five-field baseball/softball complex and the Jeff C. Dible 15-field soccer complex, all located in Scenic Park in South Sioux City.
Facilities in Sioux City include the 8-field Riverside softball complex and Lewis & Clark Park (home to the Sioux City Explorers, a Class ”A” minor league baseball team).
Scenic Park is the largest park in South Sioux City with over 133 acres of park space. One innovative path in the park is made up of recycled products and is known as the Eco-path. The park offers aquatic facilities, camping, tennis courts, boat ramp and a playground. The park also provides access to the South Sioux City trails. The Siouxland Soccer Complex with fifteen playing fields is a part of Scenic Park.
Map 2-7 illustrates the South Sioux City trail system.
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Map 2-7 South Sioux City - Trails System Map
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3.0 PUBLIC SERVICES
3.1 Essential Services
Essential services are those activities in which the city is involved that relate to the safety and health of the residents. In South Sioux City these services include fire and police protection, and solid waste collection and disposal.
3.1.1 Fire and Rescue Service Fire protection is provided to the community by a volunteer fire department with authorized strength of 35 and also provides protection outside the city limits on a mutual-aid basis. The Dakota City fire district also provides fire and rescue protection in cooperation with the South Sioux City fire department.
South Sioux City has two fire stations and 450 fire hydrants. The fire insurance classification inside the corporate limits is 6; outside it is A-9.
Table 3-1 provides a list of major vehicles or equipment of the South Sioux City
Volunteer Fire Department. TABLE 3-1 SOUTH SIOUX CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT MAJOR VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT Make Model Year Capacity, Use Ford Road Rescue Type 3 1999 Ambulance Ford Telestar 1984 1000 gpm & 105' Aerial Ladder Ford Kayl Kraft Type 3 1994 Ambulance Ford Smeal 1986 1000gpm Pumper GMC Suburban 1994 Fire Chief Vehicle Ford Smeal 1969 1000gpm Pumper Ford Smeal 1988 Utility Vehicle Ford Smeal 1989 1000gpm Pumper Jon 25hp Johnson 1977 Rescue Boat Ford Laverne 1934 Antique
Source: City of South Sioux City
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3.1.2 Police Protection The City-County Law Enforcement Center located in South Sioux City was dedicated in 1994. The Dakota County Sheriff’s Department, the South Sioux City Police Department, Troop B a part of the Nebraska State Patrol, Dakota County Victim Assistance Program and E911 Communication Center occupy this building. Twenty-two employees staff the Dakota County Sheriff’s Department. The department has complete radio equipment including state patrol monitors, radar, TTY (Tele Typewriter), National Weather Alert System (NWAS), finger printing equipment, and photometric equipment. Regular patrol provides protection to existing industries by the Police and Sheriff’s Departments and in-grounds patrol to those businesses requesting such protection.
Crime rates per 1,000 populations in 2007:
South Sioux City 15.5 Nebraska 30.2 U.S. 46.7 Sources: Nebraska Crime Commission
Troop B of the Nebraska State Patrol is headquartered 75 miles away in Norfolk with an additional office in South Sioux City. Six troopers are stationed in South Sioux City.
The South Sioux City police department employs twenty-eight full-time police officers, one non-sworn community service officer and one administrative support person. The department has radio-equipped patrol cars, cameras, radar, photo fit composite, intoxilyzer, intoximeter sensors, in-car videos, wireless mobile data units and other standard equipment, patrol bicycles, adequate criminal investigation and evidence gathering equipment, two fully trained K-9 units, trained and equipped emergency entry team, and other standard equipment.
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South Sioux City bored a fiber optic cable under the Missouri River and is currently using the fiber to link the Public Safety Access Point (PSAP) in Dakota County to the PSAP in Woodbury County, Iowa for voice, data and telephonic communications. It is a well-known fact, that in a large public safety event, the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) quickly becomes overwhelmed by the large call volume. The fiber optic connection between PSAP’s allows for dedicated voice and data connectivity reducing the threat of failure associated with an overwhelmed PSTN. In 2006 the South Sioux City Police Department and the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office took part in a tri-state Homeland Security grant funded initiative administered through Woodbury County, Iowa to provide a public safety radio communications system. This system is one of the first in the nation to provide totally inter-operative radio communication between the public safety entities of a three state area.
3.1.3 Solid Waste Disposal
In 1990, the Nebraska Unicameral passed Legislative Bill 163 (LB 163) with the express intent of developing a comprehensive solid waste management plan for the State of Nebraska. The Nebraska Solid Waste Management Plan (NSWMP) was required and completed by SIMPCO in 1991. In 1992, Legislative Bill 1257 (LB 1257) was signed into law. LB 1257 incorporated several pieces of environmental legislation including the Integrated Solid Waste Management Act (ISWMA). The ISWMA establishes a timeline for the implementation of LB 1257 requirements.
The planning process for this Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan has been on going on since the passage of LB 1257 and the Integrated Solid Waste Management Act. Dakota County, City of South Sioux City, and City of Dakota City formed the Dakota County Solid Waste Disposal Agency (DCSWDA) in 1980.
It is the vehicle for the joint efforts of all the municipalities and the nine counties (Boyd, Cedar, Cuming, Dakota, Dixon, Holt, Knox, Thurston, and Wayne Counties) that utilize the L. P. Gill Landfill, located in Dakota County near Jackson. Its representatives are a
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combination of elected and appointed officials and employees from the Agency’s members. There are now approximately 30 member cities/counties who have joined the DCSWDA and have taken advantage of the Comprehensive Solid Waste Plan.
The L.P. Gill Landfill is a state-of-the-art licensed landfill. It has an estimated life of fifty years based on the volume of waste currently land filled and is not adjusted for population increases/decreases or the volume to be reduced by the banning of certain items from land filling or the volume of reduction achieved through other options and programs initiated.
The key to meeting the Solid Waste Management Act goals for reduction of land filled solid waste, including banned items, is the education of the public. In 1994 the DCSWDA joined, Keep Nebraska Beautiful, a program dedicated to providing education to all citizens, students, and educators on proper solid waste management, reducing, reusing, recycling, and conserving natural resources.
Keep Nebraska Beautiful is a part of the Keep America Beautiful (KAB) system. KAB is a national non-profit, public education organization founded in 1953 by members of the business municipality out of concern for the environment. In 1995 the DCSWDA formed Keep Northeast Nebraska Beautiful, which covers a nine-county area. In 1996, this program became a certified affiliate of KAB.
A privately owned and operated waste collection service is provided for South Sioux City residential and commercial customers.
3.2 Other Services
Other services are those services which are not essential to the city or government’s charge of protecting the welfare, and safety of its residents but which are essential to maintain a good quality of life. The private sector provides some of these services; the city funds others.
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3.2.1 Health Services
Mercy Medical Center located in Sioux City, Iowa is a 480-bed care facility established in 1890 serves South Sioux City. The Center provides a complete continuum of preventive, primary, acute, and tertiary health care; serves as a designated trauma center for the region and the hospital’s helicopter, Mercy Air Care and provides vital, life saving care; partners with other community healthcare providers to sponsor a regional cancer center; paramedic services; blood bank; federally funded community health center; physician-hospital organization; freestanding surgery center and variety of other health services.
The medical center also provides a full range of comprehensive medical services including the Heart Center, a new constructed skilled care unit, CARF-accredited inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation and the latest family-centered obstetrics. Mercy Medical continues to achieve better than national norms for mortality, door-to-door drug, and door-to-dilation time.
Mercy Trauma Center is a certified Level II trauma center by the American College of Surgeons and is one of only three in Iowa and the only Trauma Center within a 90-mile radius. Mercy Pain Center is comprised of a hospital, a primary care clinic, network home health and hospice services, occupational health and behavioral health services, blood bank, community education and outreach, older adult services, children-at-risk programs, and many other community health services.
St. Luke’s Regional Medical Center, a 371-bed acute care hospital, is located in Sioux City, Iowa, and offers a comprehensive array of health and medical services and programs with more than 20 sites of care serving healthcare needs. The hospital includes a Level II Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, 24-hour call center, Burn Trauma Unit, surgery program, Center for Digestive Disorders, 24-hour state designed poison center, Institute for Health Education for the public and healthcare professionals, St. Luke’s College of Nursing and a school of Medical Technology. St. Luke’s also
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operates a major occupational business health program, medical clinics, and several outpatient rehabilitation clinics.
Both Mercy Medical and St. Luke’s Regional Medical Centers have clinics, in South Sioux City.
3.2.2 Retirement/Care Facilities
South Sioux City has two nursing homes, Regency Square (77 beds with 34 private assisted living suites) and Matney Colonial Manor with 77 beds and 35 assisted living units.
Regency Square was constructed in 1962 with additions and renovations completed in 1973, 1978, 2000 and 2005. There are a total of 77 Medicare/Medicaid licensed beds in single and double rooms and 34 private assisted living suites. Licensed nurses are on duty 24 hours per day.
3.2.3 Social Services
Siouxland Regional Transit System provides transportation services to the elderly, handicapped, and low-income persons. The system operates 25 buses, providing mass transit in Sioux City, Iowa, South Sioux City, Nebraska, and North Sioux City, South Dakota. It also provides services to Cherokee, Ida, Monona, Plymouth and Woodbury counties in Iowa.
A variety of social service programs are available to South Sioux City residents. Funding for social programs derives from public and private sources, and these programs are administered primarily by county, state, and regional social services agencies including: Boys and Girls Home of Nebraska; Goldenrod Hills Family Services; Nebraska Association of Farm Workers (NAF) Multicultural Human
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Development Corporation; South Sioux City Community Center; and Dakota County Veterans Office.
3.2.4 Library Services
Since the opening of the new South Sioux City Public Library in October of 2004, annual traffic into the library has tripled. This state-of-the-art facility features such amenities as a coffee shop; children’s section with a beautiful stained glass window, interactive educational toys, computers with interactive software, and a cozy area to read and enjoy books; a section for older youth with study tables and a comfortable reading area; an adult area with study tables, comfortable reading areas, and a genealogy section; group and individual study rooms; eighteen networked computers with Internet access; a fireplace and an aviary.
The library’s collection includes books, magazines, videos and DVDs, music CDs, books on tape and CD, Spanish language materials, online databases, large print materials, and access to 15,500 eBooks. Patrons can also request materials through interlibrary loan. Access to the Internet and software programs is available on public access computers equipped with Spanish keyboards. Outreach volunteers from Friends of the Library deliver materials to the elderly and disabled in the community, and the library offers preschool kits filled with books, activities, videos, and puppets to the community’s day cares. The library has an average circulation of 56,000 items and is open 60 hours per week. On average 2,500 patrons use the computers each month.
The library provides preschool story hour, a weekly evening children’s story time, book clubs for adults, a summer reading program, guest authors and book signings, and a variety of programs of interest to both children and adults.
The Cardinal Opportunity Center (COC), a building which was purchased through a grant from the United States Department of Education, is owned by the library.
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Northeast Community College, the South Sioux City Public Schools, the library, and the City of South Sioux City work together in a partnership to provide the following in the COC: a state-of-the-art computer lab for the community and college, GED classes, ESL classes, and small business development and ownership classes.
3.2.5 Education
South Sioux City residents access higher educational opportunities on campus at Morningside College, Briar Cliff University, Northeast Community College and Western Iowa Tech Community College in Sioux City, Iowa. College courses can also be obtained at Wayne State College in Wayne, Nebraska, and its extended campus in South Sioux City.
Northeast Community College plans to construct a campus in South Sioux City on over 50 acres and will be operational by the fall of 2010. The presidents of NECC and Wayne State College have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the proposed campus. where students will be able to take their freshman- and sophomore-level courses from NECC and then take junior- and senior-level or graduate-level courses from Wayne State College at the same location in South Sioux City.
The Tri-State Graduate Center is a consortium of eighteen colleges and universities in Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota. Its mission is to facilitate the delivery of graduate education to the residents of Siouxland by bringing graduate programs and other training opportunities to the immediate area so graduate level training may be obtained without traveling to distant campuses.
The Center offers more than 40 graduate degree programs and 200 graduate level courses and provides the opportunity for graduate education for non-traditional students. The Center coordinates graduate level courses and programs from eighteen regional colleges and universities.
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Technical, trades and undergraduate credits can also be obtained at Western Iowa Tech Community College (WITCC) in Sioux City, Iowa, and Northeast Community College (NCC) in South Sioux City, Nebraska. A Technology Center is located adjacent to the South Sioux City High School, Western Hills Area Education Association in Sioux City, Iowa, and the Iowa Communications Network (ICN) classroom at WITCC and other locations are located there. South Sioux City is part of the Northeast Community College (NECC) service area. The college, governed by an 11-member elected board, serves 20 counties in northeast Nebraska from the main campus in Norfolk and the regional education centers located throughout the district, including the South Sioux City centers.
Secondary and Primary Education
School District #11 in Dakota County covers 22.5 square miles and has an assessed valuation (2008-2009) of $728,517,470. The Nebraska Department of Education accredits this Class III system, configured K-5, 6-8 and 9-12.
The South Sioux City Community School’s 2008-2009 general fund budget was $37,896,000 supporting a total enrollment of 3,600 students. Table 3-2 compares the enrollment figures from 2005 to 2009.
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TABLE 3-2 SOUTH SIOUX CITY SCHOOL ENROLLMENT, 1999 - 2003 SCHOOL 2005-2006 2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009 Lewis & Clark 232 215 214 210 E.N. Swett , 138 142 148 143 Harney ,395 405 391 396 Dakota City 231 220 224 217 Cardinal 323 360 369 390 Covington 338 369 377 358 Middle Schools 821 760 737 780 High School 994 1060 1071 1082 Total Enrollment 3,472 3,531 3,531 3,576
Source: Steve Rector, Superintendent of South Sioux City Public Schools
Elementary schools have enrollment targets of 23 students per classroom for grades K- 1, 25 students for grades 2-4 and 27 students for grade 5. Total enrollment capacity at the elementary level is approximately 1800 students. The six elementary schools house grades K-5.
The Middle School, built in 1976, has enrollment capacity of approximately 850 students. Additions at the high school (grade 9-12) in 1999 have increased capacity to approximately 1,100 students. The Board of Education recently approved a long-range construction plan to accommodate projected student enrollment growth that includes additions to existing schools and construction of new schools.
All schools in the district are interconnected with broadband high-speed connectivity including Internet access in every room. The richness and diversity of the curriculum reflect the commitment to continuous improvement in preparing students for the 21st century.
Approximately 83% of eighth grade students finish high school and 76% of graduating seniors pursue some type of post-high school education or training, including military
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training. Students in the South Sioux City Community School District achieve at levels above their peer group nationwide and at levels equal to or above their peer group within the state. Special emphasis is placed on reading, writing, math, and science instruction. Seniors who took the ACT test (Class of 2008) had a composite score of 21.3.
The school district also provides a comprehensive program for students with special needs with an emphasis on successful transition to the world of work during high school. A talented and gifted program called PROPEL Academy, identifies talented and gifted students and engages them in activities designed to familiarize them with their individual strengths and talents. In addition, preschool and after school programs are available should parents choose to have their children participate.
St. Michaels School located in South Sioux City is a parochial school established in 1949. The schools mission is to “promote Christian values, produce lifelong learners, and inspire tomorrow’s leaders.” The 2008 enrollment is 118. The small class size allows the principal and faculty to know each student by name. The school provides innovative technology with broadband wireless networking to every classroom.
For more information: www.ssccardinals.org www.nde.state.ne.us (State of the School Report)
3.2.6 Dakota County Interagency Team
The Dakota County Interagency Team (DCIT) was formed in 1990 to serve in an advisory and coordinating role for the purpose of developing a community-based delivery system that provides youth (children and adolescents) and their family’s access to a system of care that addresses cooperatively their educational, health, mental health, recreational, judicial, vocational and social service needs. DCIT’s plan that defines its goals and objectives is known as the Comprehensive Community Plan for Children, Youth and Families in Dakota County (1994-1996).
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The plan includes three priorities that were chosen to carry Dakota County closer to the 21st century and include:
1. Continuing to foster a unified effort by all facets of the community by working together to strengthen children and families.
2. Making the community safe.
3. Continuing to provide and strengthen local community-based alternatives for children, youth and their families.
Through the South Sioux City Community School District and DCIT, Dakota County was chosen as one of the three “learning lab” communities in the state to test a new community-state partnership known as the Partnership With Nebraska Program. The learning labs will test several areas including options where county and state governments can work more efficiently together, distribute funds more flexibly and support comprehensive planning and integrated service delivery. The goal of the DCIT plan is to improve the lives of all Dakota County residents by taking the lead in the new partnership between the state and the communities. The Nebraska Partnership location in Dakota County will be the Lewis and Clark Elementary School in South Sioux City.
3.2.7 Natural Resources Districts
The 23 Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) in Nebraska have made significant progress toward protecting ground and surface water, slowing the effects of soil erosion, reducing flood damages, creating wildlife habitat, planting trees and educating children about the environment. Natural Resource District boundaries are formed and named after major water basins in the state.
Each NRD is governed by an elected Board of Directors and has the authority to carry out comprehensive programs as well as levy a local property tax averaging approximately 1 percent of total property taxes collected.
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The Papio-Missouri River NRD covers 1,745 square miles along the Missouri River, including all of Sarpy, Douglas, Washington and Dakota Counties along with the eastern 60 percent of Burt and Thurston Counties. The Dakota County Field Office is located in Dakota City. The NRD operates three Rural Water Supply Projects. The Washington, Thurston and Dakota County systems serve a total of 1,000 rural households and the City of Fort Calhoun.
4.0 HOUSING
It is important to consider several factors when determining the need for housing within a community. Census data offers an overall picture of the type and number of housing units available within the city at the beginning of each decade. Of equal importance to housing activity are the size, age and quality of the housing available.
4.1 General Housing Characteristics
A household is the unit that occupies a house or apartment. South Sioux City and Dakota County recorded dramatic gains in household numbers between 1990 and 2000. South Sioux City household units increased from 3,816 to 4,557 a 741 (19.4%) unit increase and Dakota County increased from 6,486 to 7,528, a 1,042 (16.1%) increase.
Based on the 2000 Census, South Sioux City had 4,545 of their 4,557 households that had complete plumbing with only a difference of 12 units that lacked adequate plumbing. Dakota County had 7,504 of their 7,528 households that had complete plumbing with only 24 units that lacked adequate plumbing. With these numbers both South Sioux City and Dakota County have adequate housing stock however as their population continues to increase, housing stock must also. Household size is a direct determinant of population and has implications on housing needs for the community.
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This reflects societal trends toward single-parent households, delayed marriages, smaller families and increased elderly population.
A South Sioux City Transitional Housing Study prepared by Hanna Keelan Associates, P. C. in 2003 illustrates a vast amount of information concerning housing and is documented in this plan.
Table 4-1 illustrates the number of housing units in South Sioux City and Dakota County between 1990 and 2000.
TABLE 4-1 HOUSING STOCK PROFILE SOUTH SIOUX CITY and DAKOTA COUNTY 1990 & 2000 South Dakota Inventory Change Profile Sioux City County 1990 Housing Stock 3,816 6,486 2000 Housing Stock 4,557 7,528 Change Units 1990-2000 +741 +1,042 -Percent +19.4% +16.1% -Annual Units +74 +104 -Annual Percent +1.94% +1.61% 2000 Housing Stock Complete Plumbing 4,545 7,504 Lack of Plumbing 0 00 12 0 024 TOTALS 4,557 7,528 Over crowdedness With 1.01 or More Persons per Room 357 588 Number of Units 1990 2000 % Change 1990 2000 % Change 1 Unit 2,696 3,001 0+ 11.3% 4,631 5,127 + 10.7% 2 to 9 Units 0,365 0,414 0+ 13.4% 0,502 0,563 + 12.2% 10 or More Units 0,393 0,787 0 +100.3% 0,393 0,809 +105.9% Mobile Homes 0,312 0,352 0+ 12.8% 0,960 1,029 + 7.2% TOTALS 3,766 4,554 0+ 20.9% 6,486 7,528 0 + 16.1%
Source: 1990, 2000 Census and South Sioux City Transitional Housing Feasibility Study Hanna: Keelan Associates, P.C., 2003
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Table 4-2 identifies tenure in household trends and projections, for both South Sioux City and Dakota County. Total households for South Sioux City are projected at 4,625 by 2008, an increase of 321 (7%) from 4,304 in 2000. Total households in Dakota County are projected at 7,468, an increase of 373 (5.2%) from 7,095 in 2000.
In South Sioux City owner occupied households are expected to increase from 2,551 (59.3%) in 2000 to 2,711 (58.6%) by 2008 and renter occupied from 1,753 (40.7%) to 1,814 (41.4%). In Dakota County owner occupied households are expected to increase from 4,781 (67.4%) in 2000 to 4,974 (66.6%) in 2008 and renter households from 2,314 (32.6%) to 2,494 (33.4%) in 2008.
TABLE 4-2 TENURE BY HOUSEHOLD TRENDS AND PROJECTIONS SOUTH SIOUX CITY and DAKOTA COUNTY 2000 - 2008 Total Owner Renter Year Households Number Percent Number Percent South 2000 4,304 2,551 59.3% 1,753 40.7% Sioux 2003 4,403 2,598 59.0% 1,805 41.0% City: 2005 4,493 2,642 58.8% 1,851 41.2% 2008 4,625 2,711 58.6% 1,914 41.4%
Dakota 2000 7,095 4,781 67.4% 2,314 32.6% County 2003 7,233 4,861 67.2% 2,372 32.8% : 2005 7,317 4,895 66.9% 2,422 33.1% 2008 7,468 4,974 66.6% 2,494 33.4%
Source: 2000 Census and South Sioux City Transitional Housing Feasibility Study Hanna: Keelan Associates, P.C., 2003
Table 4-3 identifies specific household characteristics, trends and projections for South Sioux City and Dakota County from 1990 to 2008. The number of people per household is an important determinant of population having implications on housing needs for communities. The number of households is expected to increase from 2.73 in 2003 to 2.75 in 2008.
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TABLE 4-3 SPECIFIC HOUSEHOLD CHARACTERISTICS TRENDS AND PROJECTIONS SOUTH SIOUX CITY and DAKOTA COUNTY 2000 - 2008 Persons Group Persons in Year Population Households Per Quarters Households Household South 2000 11,925 209 11,716 4,304 2.72 Sioux City: 2003 12,236 214 12,022 4,403 2.73 2005 12,533 222 12,311 4,493 2.74 2008 12,954 234 12,720 4,625 2.75 Dakota 2000 20,253 291 19,962 7,095 2.81 County: 2003 20,620 293 20,327 7,233 2.81 2005 20,932 297 20,635 7,317 2.82 2008 21,364 304 21,060 7,468 2.82
Source: 2000 Census and Transitional Housing Feasibility Study Hanna: Keelan Associates, P.C., 2003
The rental vacancy rate is the number of vacant units for rent as a percentage of the total rental inventory. A comparison of owner occupancy figures from the 1990 to 2000 Census provides evidence of an increase in both owner occupancy and renter occupancy for both South Sioux City and Dakota County.
From 1990 to 2000, South Sioux City illustrates an increase from 1.3% to 1.4% of owner occupied and 5.7% to 8.8% in renter occupied households. Likewise, Dakota County illustrates an increase of owner occupied from 1.2% to 1.3% and renter occupied from 8.4% to 9.3%.
Table 4-4 identifies the housing vacancy status in both South Sioux City and Dakota County with a comparison for years, 1990 and 2000.
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TABLE 4-4 HOUSING VACANCY STATUS SOUTH SIOUX CITY / DAKOTA COUNTY, NEBRASKA 1990 & 2000 1990 2000 Owner Overall Owner Overall Renter Renter
South Sioux 1.3% 5.7% 4.4% 1.4% 8.8% 5.6% City:
Dakota County: 1.2% 8.4% 7.0% 1.3% 9.3% 5.8% * Year-Round Available Vacant Housing Units, Meeting Current Housing Code Standards, consisting of the appropriate mix of housing unit needs.
Source: 1990, 2000 Census and South Sioux City Transitional Feasibility Study, April 2003 Hanna: Keelan Associates, P.C., 2003
From 1990 to 2000 both South Sioux City and Dakota County, illustrates a decline in the total number of owner occupied housing units in the value bracket of $25,000 to $34,000 and $35,000 to $49,999. However, in brackets less than $25,000, $50,000 to $99,999 and $100,000 or more, increases have taken place.
Table 4-5 illustrates the comparison of owner occupied housing values in South Sioux City and Dakota County.
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TABLE 4-5 OWNER OCCUPIED HOUSING VALUES SOUTH SIOUX CITY / DAKOTA COUNTY, NEBRASKA 1990 - 2008 Less $25,000 $35,000 $50,000 $100,000 Than to to to or Total $25,000 $34,999 $49,999 $99,999 More South 1990 219 325 649 0,652 044 1,889 Sioux 2000 261 044 225 1,328 685 2,543 City: Median Value 1990 $44,500 2000 $76,100 2003 $82,600 2005 $85,870 2008 $95,355
Dakota 1990 385 515 952 0.999 0,123 2,974 County: 2000 685 134 409 2,185 1,373 4,786 Median $43,700 Value 1990 2000 $076,400 2003 $083,270 2005 $090,125 2008 $100,870
Source: 1990, 2000 Census and South Sioux City Transitional Housing Feasibility Study, April 2003 Hanna:Keelan Associates, P.C., 2003
It should be noted that values reported in the census are estimated by the homeowner and may not reflect true market values, especially in areas where there is little turnover of property ownership.
Median rent for South Sioux City increased $165 from $277 in 1990 to $441 in 2000. Dakota County also showed an increase of $165 from $267 in 1990 to $432 in 2000.
Table 4-6 illustrates contract rent estimates for South Sioux City and Dakota County from 1990 to 2008.
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TABLE 4-6 CONTRACT RENT SOUTH SIOUX CITY and DAKOTA COUNTY 1990 - 2008
Less $200 $300 $500 Than to to or Total $200 $299 $499 More South 1990 281 504 492 022 1,299 Sioux 2000 129 180 853 539 1,701 City: Median Rent 1990 $277 2000 $441 2003 $474 2005 $507 2008 $559
1990 419 708 0569 028 1,724 Dakota 2000 156 279 1,091 621 2,147 County: Median Rent 1990 $267 2000 $432 2003 $465 2005 $499 2008 $552
Source: 1990, 2000 Census and South Sioux City Transitional Housing Feasibility Study, April 2003 Hanna:Keelan Associates, P.C., 2003
4.2 Structural Characteristics
Table 4-7 illustrates the types of housing in South Sioux City in 2000. According to the 2000 census figures the most prevalent units are: 1-unit detached 2,888 (63.4%), 20 or more units 559 (12.3%) and mobile homes 352 (7.7%).
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TABLE 4-7 HOUSING UNITS IN STRUCTURE 2000 SOUTH SIOUX CITY Units in Structure Number Percent 1-unit, detached 2,888 63.4 1-unit, attached 0,113 02.5 2 units 0,109 02.4 3 or 4 units 0,162 03.6 5 to 9 units 0,143 03.1 10 to 19 units 0,228 00.5 20 or more units 0,559 12.3 Mobile homes 0,352 07.7
Source: U.S. Census Data
4.3 New Construction
Table 4-8 Illustrates South Sioux City’s new housing construction from 2006 to 2008. The multifamily units identified in the Table 4-8 are duplex units, constructed in single- family neighborhoods and did not contribute to the multifamily rental units typically associated with large buildings consisting of numerous dwelling units under one roof. Several new sub-divisions to serve single-family construction for various income levels have been developed along with areas for multi-family units. TABLE 4-8 SOUTH SIOUX CITY – NEW HOUSING CONSTRUCTION
2006 2007 2008
Single Family Dwellings 21 13 17
Multi-Family Dwellings Units 2 6 0
Multi-Family Buildings 1 3 0
Total Construction Costs $2,540,570 $1,356,050 $2,220,824
Average Cost $120,980 $104,312 $130,636
Source: City of South Sioux City
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4.4 Special Housing Needs
The age of the city’s population is an important factor to be considered in an analysis of housing needs. The consideration is especially important for the elderly population. Their requirements for housing and their average incomes often dictate a need for certain types of construction and for financing assistance.
Another group of people with special housing needs are individuals with developmental disabilities. In 1996 the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, Goldenrod Hills Agency, Region IV Services, the City of South Sioux City and the City of Sioux City, Iowa, worked together to obtain financing for new housing units for disabled residents.
Housing has been constructed throughout South Sioux City and designed to provide services for non-ambulatory need individuals or more independent lower need individuals. 4.5 Future Housing Needs
Two variables determine future housing demand. The most important variable, population change, is directly dependent upon economic growth in the area. Several positive changes in the economy have taken place since the 2000 census and economic growth is expected to continue.
4.6 Obstacles to Matching Housing Supply and Demand
There are several obstacles to successfully match housing stock to housing consumers. These obstacles, primarily economic in nature, include the following:
• The cost of new housing construction has increased rapidly in recent years. Many of South Sioux City residents are unable to afford the rising costs of conventional housing.
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• The economies of scale associated with large-scale housing developments on a speculative basis often do not operate as well here as in large urban areas. Financing is more difficult for the local developer to obtain than for his large urban area counterpart.
• Young families often lack sufficient capital for a down payment on their first home. Lending institutions are often reluctant to finance mortgages for low-income families.
• In areas where a depressed market has kept home values low, homeowner and landlords may not have invested in needed maintenance and rehabilitation of older structures. As a result, banks and other lending institutions may refuse to finance purchase of these dwelling units.
• The obstacles for elderly homeowners to obtain suitable housing are twofold:
a) There are insufficient numbers of units of alternative housing available to elderly citizens of low and moderate income. Waiting periods of six months or more are common in the housing complexes built specifically for seniors.
b) The demographic trends suggest that housing with amenities may be needed if the needs of the elderly are to be met. “Assisted Living Housing,” housing that provides basic services such as meals, transportation and housekeeping, will become more necessary as the population ages.
5.0 FINANCIAL STRUCTURE The condition of a community’s finances, taxation policies and expenditure patterns are important factors in determining fiscal health. The economic and fiscal characteristics of
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a governmental unit are important in the execution of both a financial and general development plan.
An analysis of municipal resources and capacity is an essential part of any community plan and capital improvements program. Each need and proposed project is evaluated according to the availability of funding. A city’s capital improvement program is funded by various revenue sources, including property taxes, general obligation bonds, revenue bonds, special assessments, state and federal grant funds, service charges, state road use tax funds and tax increment financing.
5.1 Taxation
Normal government operations are financed through the revenues raised by the property tax levy. Taxation has a direct and significant effect on present and future land use since it directly affects the costs of owning property. The development potential of the community is largely influenced by valuations, tax assessments, and by the community’s sense of fiscal responsibility. The depth of financial planning exercised by a governmental unit in the present will affect the breadth of its alternatives in the future.
The Nebraska State Government is financed by an individual income tax, corporate income tax, 5.5 percent sale tax and use taxes, and selective excise taxes (liquor, tobacco, motor fuels, etc.) Local governments are financed primarily by property taxes and service charges. Many cities are authorized up to 1.5% city sales tax collection upon voter approval. Real estate and personal property taxes are levied by county and municipal subdivisions, and school districts. All real property except agricultural land is assessed its actual value. Agricultural land is assessed at 80 percent of market value. Personal property is assessed at net book value.
Motor vehicles are subject to tax by values established by the State Tax Commissioner. Tax rates are expressed in dollars and cents per $100 of actual value. Table 5-1 presents the five-year trend in assessed valuation in South Sioux City. The data show
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that assessed valuation has been increasing steadily. Assessed valuation increased 48% from fiscal year ending 2000 through 2009.
Table 5-1 TOTAL ASSESSED VALUATION SOUTH SIOUX CITY 1999 - 2006
Fiscal Year Regular 1999-00 $349,621,109 2000-01 $367,218,035 2001-02 $393,673,255 2002-03 $395,692,804 2003-04 $440,078,734 2004-05 $477,049,228 2005-06 $486,133,616 2006-07 $500,018,414 2007-08 $505,399,287 2008-09 $516,314,736 Source: South Sioux City, Treasurer
5.2 Revenues
Revenue is derived from taxes collected by the county; excise and sales taxes; state allocations; miscellaneous fees; licenses and permits; and general fund user charges.
Total revenue reported in Fiscal 2007 was $28,337,237. The following breaks down revenues collected for General Governmental Activities and Business-Type Activities:
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TABLE 5-2 SOUTH SIOUX CITY REVENUES General Business- Governmental Type Revenue Source Activities Activities Total
Program Revenues: Charges for Services $ 1,029,888 $17,540,269 $18,570,157 Operating Grants and 1,698,799 25,000 1,723,799 Contributions Capital Grants and 274,634 1,138,545 1,413,179 Contributions Total Program Revenues 3,003,321 18,703,814 21,707,135
General Revenues & Interfund Transfers: Property Taxes 2,300,212 - 2,300,212 Other Taxes 1,036,955 - 1,036,955 Local Option Sales Tax 2,384,408 - 2,384,408 Interest 206,095 5,683 211,778 Finance Charges - 39,067 39,067 Intergovernmental Revenues 328,551 - 328,551 Use of Property - - - Lottery Revenue 79,099 - 79,099 Gain (Loss) on Sale of Assets 78,568 - 78,568 Contributed Capital Revenue - - - Miscellaneous 82,135 89,329 171,464 Total General Revenues & Interfund Transfers 6,496,023 134,079 6,630,102
Total Revenues & Interfund $ 9,499,344 $18,837,893 $28,337,237 Transfers Source: City of South Sioux City, City Treasurer
Property taxes for governmental activities decreased by $187,704 or 7.5% due to the expiration of tax collections in the Westside TIF district.
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5.3 Expenditures Expenditures for Fiscal 2007 totaled $26,917,243. Expenditures for General Governmental Activities totaled $10,451,626, accounting for 39% of total expenditures. Business-Type Activity expenditures totaled $16,465,617, for 61% of the total. For the most part, increases in expenses closely paralleled inflation and growth in the demand for services
TABLE 5-3 SOUTH SIOUX CITY EXPENDITURES General Business- Governmental Type Program Level Activities Activities Total
Public Safety $ 4,422,095 - $ 4,422,095 Public Works 2,642,243 - 2,642,243 Culture and Recreation 1,947,826 - 1,947,826 Community Development 353,854 - 353,854 General Government 711,128 - 711,128 Debt Service 374,480 - 374,480 Capital Projects - - - Utility Administration - 2,502,936 2,502,936 Electric - 10,877,656 10,877,656 Sewer - 1,479,678 1,479,678 Water - 1,101,195 1,101,195 Sanitation - 504,152 504,152
Total Expenditures $ 10,451,626 $16,465,617 $26,917,243 Source: City of South Sioux City, City Treasurer
.
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5.4 Indebtedness
The level of indebtedness of a community is a valid indicator of its fiscal health. Annual general obligation debt service requirements to maturity are as follows:
TABLE 5-4 SOUTH SIOUX CITY Governmental Activities Year Ending Principal Interest September 30 2009 $ 650,000 $ 209,634 2010 $ 630,000 $ 188,395 2011 $ 640,000 $ 165,338 2012 $ 600,000 $ 142,760 2013-2017 $ 2,695,000 $ 361,741 2018 $ 250,000 $ 11,750
Total $ 6,120,000 $ 1,309,779 Source: City of South Sioux City, City Treasurer
6.0 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
6.1 Local Economy
The goal of the City of South Sioux City is to provide safe, efficient, public services; encourage orderly growth; support expansion of job opportunities; and improve the quality of life for the health and welfare of the citizens, businesses, and industries of the community.
South Sioux City’s vision statement by 2020 is to be “a vibrant community that provides a tremendous quality of life, defined by outstanding educational and employment opportunities, for all citizens. With our strong commitment to environmental stewardship, we are a recreational, cultural, economic, and technological hub of the Midwest.”
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In order to plan for economic development for South Sioux City, it is first necessary to understand its economic history. The economic history of South Sioux City and the surrounding area has been largely determined by the fortunes of agriculture. During the 1970s and 1980s agriculture and related agribusiness under went serious recession. Heavy debt and financial loss bankrupted many farmers.
Farms have been consolidated into larger and larger units. Businesses related to the provision of agricultural goods and services have declined in proportion to the decrease in the number of farms. While the number of farms has decreased, the size has increased because of the absorption into other farms.
The City of South Sioux City approved by ordinance, creation of the Community Development Agency (CDA), on August 24, 1982. CDA is a nonprofit organization with five members and is funded through the city government. CDA manages the city’s Tax Increment Financing Districts, approves and oversees loan activity, and facilitates land and project development. CDA has brought successful results enhancing the city’s industry.
6.1.1 Earnings, Employment and Labor Force
Reasonable wages for the citizens of South Sioux City is important to the city’s economic base, households and retaining the city’s population. The average wages from 1997 to 2006 were: 1997 $23,693 1998 $24,625 1999 $24,908 2000 $25,584 2001 $25,867 2002 $26,436 2003 $28,375 2004 $28,469 2005 $30,096
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2006 $31,823
Source: Nebraska Department of Economic Development, Nebraska Workforce Development, Census of Employment and Wages in Nebraska website.
Table 6-1 illustrates in graphic form the average wages in South Sioux City from 1995 to 2005. TABLE 6-1
AVERAGE WAGE IN SOUTH SIOUX CITY
32,000
30,000
28,000
26,000 WAGE 24,000
22,000
20,000 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 YEAR
Source: Nebraska Department of Economic Development, Labor Market Information
6.1.2 Major Employers
South Sioux City values its businesses both small and large. Businesses provide jobs and an economic base for the city. Retention programs for existing businesses assist the city in both enhancing and retaining existing businesses.
The Business Retention program has a triennial survey of citizens asking for information on a variety of critical issues along with questions concerning attracting jobs and downtown revitalization improvements.
South Sioux City, CDA, Cardinal Development, and the South Sioux City Area Chamber of Commerce host business lunches quarterly in an effort to bring recognition to outstanding local businesses.
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The Chamber of Commerce presents Chamberette Awards to businesses for beautification, new construction and remodeling. Business retention and expansion surveys of existing businesses are obtained.
The South Sioux City Economic Development Department works aggressively addressing the needs of existing businesses while looking for new businesses to relocate to the city. South Sioux City’s aggressive marketing enhances their efforts, shows their pride and dedication while attracting interest.
Table 6-2, illustrates major employers, the type of employment and the approximate number of employees. They represent several sectors of the economy, including financial, food processing, manufacturing and agribusiness.
TABLE 6-2 MAJOR EMPLOYERS – SOUTH SIOUX CITY Seasonal Company Product Employees Employees Tyson Fresh Meats Beef slaughter & processing 5284 SSC Schools Education 577 Great West Casualty Co/Joe Morton & Sons Insurance 387 BPI, Inc. Beef processing 321 Sara Lee Baker Group Bakery products 169 Marina Inn Motel and restaurant 150 Gerkin Windows & Doors Windows and doors 160 35 Phillips Kiln Repair kilns 110 40 Sioux City Foundry, Inc. Ductile gray iron foundry 114 8 City of South Sioux City Government 80 38 YMCA Recreation 100 Northeast Com. College Education 102
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6.1.3 Industrial Activity
The economic base in South Sioux City continues to expand and diversify with growth in many areas. New industry and educational expansions and announced expansions include: 1) Sara Lee Bakery Group 2) Beef Products, Inc. 3) Dakota Cold Storage 4) Siouxland Concrete 5) Great West Casualty 6) Gerkin Windows and Doors 7) South Sioux City Community Schools 8) Lite-Form Technologies 9) Northeast Community College 10) G.A. Crossings 11) Green Planet Farms
These expansions and projected expansions are estimated to bring 324 new jobs to the city. The strength of the industrial sector is an important component to the future of South Sioux City.
Annual retail sales from 1997 to 2006 are as follows:
1997 $095,484,415 1998 $096,262,664 1999 $098,580,478 2000 $096,678,530 2001 $103,184,298 2002 $104,927,568 2003 $100,360,349
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2004 $ 96,211,568 2005 $94,814,234 2006 $105,310,134
Table 6-3 illustrates in graphic form retail sales from 1997 to 2006 in South Sioux City. TABLE 6-3 SOUTH SIOUX CITY RETAIL SALES
110000000
105000000
100000000 Sales
95000000
90000000 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Year
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6.2 Regional Economy
This region is known for its agriculture and agri-business activities, including the production, processing and distribution of corn, beans and various livestock products. Table 6-4 illustrates the number of persons employed in Dakota County from 1998 to 2008 from the available labor force, while Table 6-5 illustrates this figure as a percentage of the employable labor force in Dakota County for the same period.
TABLE 6-4 DAKOTA COUNTY EMPLOYMENT
Dakota County Employment
11000
10800
10600
10400
Employed Employed 10200
10000
9800
9600 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Year
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TABLE 6-5 DAKOTA COUNTY PERCENT OF EMPLOYMENT
Percent of Labor Force Employed
97.50%
97.00%
96.50%
96.00%
95.50% Percent Employed
95.00%
94.50%
94.00% 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Year
Labor force data are generally recorded by place of residence. The labor force is the number of persons 16 years of age and older that are available for employment. The number of persons unemployed from 1998 to 2008 is: 1998 298 1999 294 2000 348 2001 339 2002 477 2003 513 2004 480 2005 509 2006 303 2007 317 2008 463
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Source: Nebraska Department of Economic Development, Labor Market Information
Table 6-6 illustrates the number of persons unemployed in Dakota County from 1998 to 2008 while Table 6-7 illustrates the percent of labor force that is unemployed.
TABLE 6-6 DAKOTA COUNTY NUMBER OF UNEMPLOYED PERSONS
Unemployed
600
550
500
450
400
350
300
250 # Unemployed 200
150
100
50
0 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Year
Source: Nebraska Department of Economic Development, Labor Market
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TABLE 6-7 DAKOTA COUNTY PERCENT OF UNEMPLOYED PERSONS
Percent of Labor Force that is Unemployed
6.00%
5.00%
4.00%
3.00% Percent
2.00%
1.00%
0.00% 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Year
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Source: Nebraska Department of Economic Development, Labor Market
7.0 LAND USE
This section creates a current profile of existing land use patterns in South Sioux City and recommends goals for future development that are compatible with the character of the city. The City of South Sioux City follows several development principals to protect their sense of community.
7.1 Existing Land Use
Land use refers to the type of activity for which any given parcel of land is being used. Present land use conditions and activities exert a strong influence on future growth and development. Residential land use is the primary land use in the city.
7.1.1 Land Use Classifications
The existing land use patterns of the city are residential, commercial, industrial and open space. The existing land uses in the South Sioux City Downtown Urban Renewal Area are commercial, residential, industrial, and open space. The proposed land use of the area contains these uses except for the possible conversion of the airport to industrial, commercial and residential uses. The “Zoning Ordinance, City of South Sioux City, Nebraska” shall govern the location, type and special requirements of the development of future land uses within this downtown district.
Zoning and subdivision ordinances are two common regulatory land use tools for cities to enforce community standards. The City of South Sioux City has a zoning ordinance currently in place.
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South Sioux City is divided into the following zoning districts.
Agricultural Transitional District Rural Residential Subdivision Residential R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5 Commercial C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4 Manufacturing M-1, M-2, M-3, M-4 Planned Unit Development
The Land Use Plan is a concept plan for allocation of land for various future needs. Land has been allocated for the following uses: single-family residences, low density residences (encompassing one and two family structures), multi-family residences (densities larger than two families per structure), business commerce, arterial commerce, light and medium industry, public/semi-public uses, mobile home occupation and agriculture.
7.2 Future Land Use
The area south of I-129 is the primary industrial growth area for the city which is easily accessible and accommodating to heavy truck traffic with the interchange at Dakota Avenue and I-129 providing access to major roads, highways and the interstate system in the tri-state area. The Highway 35 Express project and potential interchange connection with I-129 near the Missouri River will further enhance this area for development.
Residential expansion is expected to continue from East 39th Street north and east toward the Missouri River, to utilize the existing infrastructure and public schools in this vicinity.
The area abutting Highway 77 to the west and north of West 21st Street to Golf Road has developed as large scale commercial retail and will provide ideal exposure and easy access to a proposed new college campus.
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Development and redevelopment of office space, small retail shops and other businesses serving the personal day to day needs of the community is expected to continue along Dakota Avenue. With the guidance of the Design Commission and adoption of a design ordinance, property owners along Dakota Avenue have an opportunity to focus their investment dollars in a manner which will not only add value to their property, it will promote unity and foster community pride while still maintaining market individuality.
7.2.1 TIF Districts
The City of South Sioux City has been involved in the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) program since 1987. The TIF program is a financing mechanism that uses taxes on increased property valuations to pay for investments in defined geographical areas. Using TIF strategically has led to many successful economic development projects in South Sioux City which have increased property values and created jobs.
The first TIF district was established by the city in 1987. Since that time three other districts were created. Following are the existing districts:
Riverfront TIF, established July 1987 – ended 2002 Westside Business Park, established September 1991 – ended 2006 Business Improvement District TIF, established December 1997 All America District, established October 2005
Riverfront TIF
Located near the Veterans Memorial Bridge which connects the states of Nebraska and Iowa over the Missouri River, the Riverfront TIF district was developed following the economic downturn experienced for businesses located near the bridge during its closure which lasted from 1982 to 1983.
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By 1987, although recovery was beginning, the TIF allowed the city to further enhance the area with the development of specific infrastructure improvements included: Park improvements, storm drainage improvements, water system upgrades, new street developments (boulevard created), and major landscaping. The Marina Inn and the Siouxland Convention Center were two of the largest private construction projects which resulted from the city’s investment into the area. This TIF is now closed.
Westside Business Park TIF
Bordering on either side of old U.S. Highway 20 and adjacent to U.S. Highway 77 By- Pass, the Westside Business Park area was long known as an area which had scattered auto salvage operations and unused agricultural land. After a few new developments occurred on the eastern edge of the area, the city created momentum for additional development projects through the planned construction of support infrastructure.
The costs included paving, water and sewer improvements and roadway lighting. An interior office park and commercial district was created which immediately allowed three private businesses to construct buildings and locate their operations into the park creating jobs. This TIF had a sunset date of December 29, 2006 and is now closed.
Business Improvement District TIF
Originally created to enhance the esthetics of the downtown area through the encouragement of planned private remodeling, rehabilitation and reconstruction projects, this TIF became a model of how to create excitement and pride in a city. Ultimately, this district was incorporated into the application for the “All America City” and was partly the reason South Sioux City ultimately was chosen as a 2003 winner.
The anchors for the design elements for this district started with the construction of the unique Prairie School styled Dakota County State Bank followed by the construction of the Prairie School styled City Hall building. Other buildings in the district are now in the
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process of façade improvements which are in harmony with a unified effort for beautification of the downtown area. The sunset date for this TIF is December 29, 2013.
All America TIF
All America District was formed to provide the land and infrastructure for a new joint campus for Northeast Community College and Wayne State College. Utilizing the new value of the shopping center area, the ability to give the land to the colleges was accomplished. Expected to be a short term district, the valuation of this area has grown significantly. In addition, the city and county will receive additional sales tax revenue from this 154 acres district, located along Highway 77.
8.0 GOALS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
8.1 Housing
More residential housing development is necessary for South Sioux City to continue to grow as a community. . Hanna: Keelan Associates, P.C., prepared and delivered a Transitional Housing Feasibility Study for the city in April 2003. Section 3 of the study shows that “by 2008, South Sioux City should develop up to 382 housing units; 176 owner units, 206 renter units. The estimated cost of this housing would be $34 million. The city will require 70 to 115 acres of land or building area to develop the 382 units.
More specifically, the study shows the housing need in South Sioux City as follows: A total of 61 Rental Units and 50 Owner Units will be needed for elderly persons. Families will require 118 rental units and 118 Owner Units. Special Populations will need 27 Rental Units and 8 Owner Units.
Changes in the State’s mental health program will return persons to community-based care. South Sioux City intends to become a pilot project for the new program.
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There are a number of residential subdivisions currently being developed throughout the community providing over 100 single family lots available for new construction. The most recent residential subdivision is the Rottunda Place Addition. The first phase of this subdivision provides a number of equestrian permitted lots and access to a private lake and walking/equestrian trails which wind through a natural wooded area.
8.2 Community Facilities
The City of South Sioux City should continue to replace old water and sewer lines while providing for expansions for new areas of growth. The water connection to the Sioux City Iowa plant should provide for the future needs of the city. The city does have the option of expanding or building a new water treatment plant based on the economics of the situation. A second sewer crossing should be constructed directly to the Sioux City regional sewer treatment plant to provide for the growth in the community including industrial waste.
The streets in the city should undergo continuous improvements as a result of federal, state and local funding of the streets and in particular, the public approved sales tax for streets. The city should undergo a review every five years to determine the progress of the street improvements and to set priorities for the next five years.
The Crystal Cove Park underwent a dredging and improvement project that kept this facility in premier condition for all to enjoy. The new sled slope adds an additional feature for the park using the dredge material.
8.3 Economic Development
A major Economic Development goal for the city is to attract employers that pay higher wages and retain the city’s well-educated youth, particularly tech-type businesses that require fiber optic networks.
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Attracting additional restaurant and retail businesses and continuing the Dakota Avenue revitalization project are additional main goals of the city. The city commissioned the Buxton Company, located in Dallas, Texas, to identify the top 25 retail and restaurant matches, based on a 15-minute drive time, for the community. Results of the study demonstrated that the identified companies could be successful in South Sioux City, and companies are being contacted individually.
Realizing that companies that use fiber optics should be the next focus of economic development direction, the city also had the Buxton Company identify firms that use fiber optics and may be considering relocation. Those companies are also being individually contacted.
Revitalization of Dakota Avenue is well underway. The city’s economic development committee, Community Development Agency of the City of South Sioux City (CDA), actively and aggressively continues its work on the revitalization project. CDA facilitated six downtown businesses to re-locate into newer, more viable buildings.
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