Cedar Falls moves forward with controversial annexation plan

The Cedar Falls City Council held a public hearing to discuss the voluntary annexation of 81.33 acres of land into the city. This area includes four parcels owned by the city and one half-acre parcel owned by private citizens, the Gaffneys, who have not consented to the annexation.

City staff member Shane explained that the annexation is classified as an \"eighty-twenty\" annexation. This means that 80% of the land being annexed is voluntary, while less than 20% is non-consenting. The inclusion of the Gaffneys' parcel is necessary to avoid creating an irregular boundary along South Union Road. Without this inclusion, the new city limit would leave a small notch in the boundary.

The council previously set the date for this public hearing in August. They followed state procedures by consulting with the Board of Supervisors and Cedar Falls Township Trustees, who did not raise any objections. Notices were sent to surrounding property owners and nearby communities, including the city of Hudson.

If the council approves the annexation, the application will be submitted to the state’s City Development Board for final approval. This process is expected to take one to two months. Following state approval, the council will need to certify the population of the newly annexed area and amend the voting precinct map. These actions are anticipated to occur in early 2025.

The meeting concluded without any public comments or objections, and the council is expected to move forward with the annexation process.