Council Bluffs moves forward with annexation plan for industrial development

During the City Council meeting on April 7, 2025, Council Bluffs officials discussed a significant voluntary annexation proposal that could reshape the local economy and infrastructure. The annexation, which extends south from the current city limits along South 192nd Street and the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad right of way, aims to attract a major business that could bring substantial investment and job opportunities to the area.

The proposal has sparked some controversy, particularly from residents and officials in Mills County, who expressed concerns about the impact on local roads, specifically Bunge Avenue. Mills County Supervisor Jack Sayers highlighted that the current state of Bunge Avenue poses safety risks due to heavy truck traffic and called for a formal agreement regarding road maintenance and repairs. He emphasized that the annexation line should ideally extend to the center line of Bunge Avenue to ensure shared responsibility for the road's upkeep.

Despite these concerns, city officials remain optimistic about the potential benefits of the annexation. Mayor Matt Walsh noted that the anticipated business could invest up to half a billion dollars in property improvements and create hundreds of high-paying jobs, which would significantly boost the local economy. The mayor and other council members underscored the importance of collaboration between Council Bluffs and Mills County to address infrastructure needs and ensure public safety.

The council also clarified that while there were letters of opposition to the annexation, none were submitted directly to the mayor, leading to some confusion during the meeting. City officials assured that all concerns would be taken into account, and they committed to conducting traffic studies for any developments that arise from the annexation.

As the council moves forward with the annexation process, they aim to foster a cooperative relationship with Mills County, ensuring that both communities can benefit from the economic opportunities presented by this development. The discussions reflect a broader goal of enhancing regional collaboration to support growth and improve the quality of life for residents in Council Bluffs and surrounding areas.