The Hurd Museum is located in Hawkeye. The purpose of the museum is to preserve the Hurd Building and to collect memorabilia that is housed in the museum for future generations to enjoy.
Before Building Your Barrel

Determine the best location for your water recycling system by considering the following:
-How will you be using your harvested rain water… for plants, washing vehicles?
    Will you require individual barrels at different locations around your home?
    Will you transport your water with water can or soaker hose?  
-Look at your downspouts and evaluate your environment…  
    Is the ground level near your downspout?  
    Can you build a platform for your barrel with cinder blocks?
    Is there enough space for multiple barrels?  
Will you require flexible downspout attachments?  
-    How many barrels will you need?
Obtain 55-gallon drums from your local car wash, dairy farmer, or food producer.
Refurbish the containers to eliminate any toxicity by rinsing your barrel out thoroughly, avoid using bleach, as it is environmentally harmful. For an environmentally safe soap solution use 2 teaspoons of castile soap and 2 teaspoons of vinegar or lemon juice for every gallon of water used to clean your barrel.

Gather Your Supplies

We used the following tools/supplies:  
    Electric jig-saw – used to cut the top off our barrel
    Electric drill – to drill holes for spigot and runoff
    1 inch drill bit
    1 ¼ inch hole saw
    Screen Retainer Spline
        
And purchased the following parts:
    1 ¼ Discharge Hose          
    Faucet/Spigot – ¾ inch hose bibb    
    1 inch Flat washer (2)        
    ¾ inch Conduit Nuts        
    Flexible window screen (fiberglass) 30ft x 84ft    
    1 ¼ threaded elbow to barb        
     Silicone Caulk             
    
Constructing Your Barrel

1.  Taking the Top - Off  Wear eye protection! Start cutting with your jig-saw about an inch or so in from the barrel edge.  Since the material gets pretty thick near the edges, try not to rest the side of the foot on the barrel surface, making the blade slant toward the outside and into that thicker material. We chose a topless design to make it possible to get at the inside for cleaning, to allow flexibility of the placement of your downspout and to allow rain to flow without blockage.  Smaller openings are more likely to get covered with leaves and debris, causing spillover. Use a blade or a file to clean up the plastic burrs from the edges of this hole.

2.  Installing the Faucet  - Measure about 2 inches above the bottom of the barrel where the curvature along the bottom rim ends and the barrel side begins to rise toward the top.   *Before  drilling your hole you may want to practice on the lid.  Drill a hole using your 1 inch spade bit. Thread the hole by carefully screwing the faucet into the hole you drilled.  The metal will cut threads into the soft plastic of the barrel.  Carefully unscrew the faucet.  Apply the big washer on the faucet… you will have a washer on the inside and outside of the barrel.  Circle each washer with a thin bead of caulk. Carefully thread the faucet/washer into the hole.   Secure with the ¾ inch conduit nut.  The washer and nut together strengthen the barrel around the faucet area and keep the faucet from moving relative to the plastic. Get a hand with tightening the nut.  While one person holds the faucet in place on the outside of the barrel, another can use pliers to tighten the nut on the inside.

3.  Prepare the Overflow - Before drilling your overflow hole, consider it’s placement relative to your existing downspout.  They should be aligned.  Toward the top of the barrel, drill a hole using your 1 ¼ inch hole saw  - you may need to file the hole for the elbow to thread properly. Thread the elbow barb into the hole and hold it in position with one hand on the outside of the barrel while you attach the 1 ½ inch conduit nut to the inside of the barrel. Apply the hose to the barb.

4.  Finish the top - Cut screen with two inches of excess around the opening.  Secure the screen to the barrel with rope.

Multiple Barrel Connection - Some designs have just a hose connection on the barrel using a barb connectors to chain barrels. If you're going to hook up a second (or third) barrel to the first one, make another threaded hole for the connection to another barrel, if you wish, and insert the hose barb there. Since the connections between barrels aren't stressed as much as the faucet, washers are unnecessary here.

Elevating the rain barrel
The rain barrel is designed to take advantage of gravity.  Therefore, place the barrel on cinder blocks or a sturdy wooden crate at least 15 inches from the ground.
55 gallons of water weighs over 450 pounds; make sure your support is strong.

Watch this video for information on creating a green roof and what it can do for you.

To find a chamber member business, select from the categories below.

Select from the gallery below.
Below are area Organizations & Clubs listed in our Business Directory.

West Union is home to four city parks: Lions Park, Rotary Park, Clark Park and Sunset Park. Lions Park is located just off Highway 18.
Rotary Park is located across from the North Fayette High School off of North Pine Street.
Clark Park is located off of South Pine Street.
Sunset Park is on Auburn Street which runs adjacent to Highway 150 North.

To reserve the shelter house at any of these parks, or for additional information, please contact Kathy Guyer with West Union Park & Rec:
Phone: 563-422-3685
Email: kdguyer@gmail.com
The Fayette County Historical Center is located at 100 N. Walnut Street. This center provides an educational opportunity for students, visitors and residents. The center is run by volunteers and funded entirely through donations.
West Union is home to North Fayette Community Schools. The North Fayette District is a proud part of Fayette County covering 190 square miles. The district includes the communities of Fayette, Hawkeye, Eldorado, Alpha, and West Union. Elementary Centers are located in Fayette, Hawkeye, and West Union with a Middle School and High School in West Union.

An important part of community life in the area, North Fayette Community School District provides academic, athletic, and cultural activities for all residents. District patrons and local businesses fully support the district's endeavors to provide the best education for all students.

A new Performing Arts Center opened on the 60-acre high school campus in 2007 offering state-of-the art facilities for music and drama. A new 8-lane track and stadium facility was completed in August 2008 providing high quality facilities for student athletics.

West Union Community Library
210 North Vine Street
West Union, IA 52175
Phone/Fax: 563-422-3103

Library Hours:
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 10:00-5:30
Tuesday: 10:00-7:30
Wednesday: 10:00-5:30
Thursday: 10:00-7:30
Friday: 10:00-5:30
Saturday: 10:00-2:00

The West Union Community Library is conveniently located at 210 North Vine Street in West Union. The library hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. and on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. Saturday hours are 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

The West Union Community Library offers handicapped accessibility, 3 meeting rooms for public use, a newspaper and magazine reading lounge, 8 public computers with internet stations, 900 video tapes and 600 audio books and 26,000 volumes of books. This wonderful library also offers one of the few Gates Computer Labs in the State of Iowa.
The West Union area has many different denominations to choose from when it comes to places of worship. The following is a listing of the various churches:

First Baptist Church
Dr. Lawrence Williams
North Vine & Adams Street
West Union, IA 52175

Holy Name Catholic Church
Rev. Dale Rausch
128 North Walnut
West Union, IA 52175

Victory Christian Church
Rev. Roland Waterman
112 Pine Street
West Union, IA 52175

Gospel Hall
East 4th Street
West Union, IA 52175

Bethany Lutheran Church
Rev. Marshall Nessa
29746 Iris Road
Ossian, IA 52161

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church
Dennis Hugdahl
28884 State Street
West Union, IA 52175

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church LCMS
Rev. Ronnie Koch
311 Hwy 150 South
West Union, IA 52175

United Methodist Church
Rev. Scott Keele Kober
301 Hansen Blvd.
West Union, IA 52175

Bethel United Presbyterian Church
Pastor Galen E. Smith
208 N. Vine Street
West Union, IA 52175

Redeemer Lutheran Church AALC
Corner Hwy 18 & 150
West Union, IA 52175

Valleyview Community Wesleyan Church
Pastor White
111 Franklin Street
West Union, IA 52175
563-423-5913
http://www.valleyviewwesleyan.com

Zion Lutheran Church ELCA
Rev. David Grant
130 Washington Street
West Union, IA 52175
UPCOMING FUNDRAISERS

August 13 - Ice Cream Social & Auction
Maidrites, Hot Dogs, Chips, Pie and more!
October 11 - Chicken Dinner at the Echo Valley Banquet Center

Call Bonnie for more information at 422-5505.
Garbage Service:
Waste Management........800-747-0473
Bunn Services...........800-286-6462 or 563-920-3209

Electricity Service:
Alliant Energy.......800-887-5211 or 800-255-4268

Gas Service:
Black Hills Energy..................888-890-5554
www.blackhillsenergy.com
Cable Service:
Mediacom.............................800-332-0245

Internet:
Alpine...............800-635-1059 or 563-245-4000
Mediacom................800-332-0245
Qwest...................800-244-1111
find your home in West Union...

Real Estate Contacts:

Homestead Iowa Realty
306 Hwy 150 South
West Union, IA 52175
Contact: Debbie Merrill Owner/Broker (563) 419-5432
Phone: 563-422-3277 or 800-643-3277
Website: www.HomesteadIowaRealty.com
Email: dmerrill@netins.net
Real estate sales, rentals & market analysis.
Also contact:
Lisa Wescott Broker Associate (563) 380-0568
Janet Stahr Broker Associate (563) 380-0568
Chuck Frieden Sales Associate (563) 880-0129


Northeast Iowa Realty and Appraisal
115 S. Vine Street
West Union, IA 52175
Contact: Jay Jensen
Phone: 563-422-3285
Website: www.northeastiowarealty.com
Email: jcj@northeastiowarealty.com
Real estate sales and appraisals, free notary service.


Woodard Real Estate
114 S. Vine Street
West Union, IA 52175
Contact: Dick Woodard
Phone: 563-422-3831
Website: www.woodard-realestate.com
Email: dwoodard@woodard-insurance.com

Real estate services, market analysis and notary.


Rental Property Contacts:


Mark Bostrom (563) 425-3059 I Shawn Kleppe (563) 567-8225 I
Jack Cline (563) 422-5169
I Kevin Cline (563) 422-5746 I
Norm Einck (563) 422-5723
I Jim Frey (563) 422-5522 I
Marty Fisher (563) 422-5394 I Troy Johansen (563) 422-6089 I
Ferlin Lauer (563) 422-5934
I Jeff Miller (563) 422-5810 I
Earl Moss (563) 422-3331
I Mark Smith (563) 422-3646 I
Kara Wedemeier (563) 422-6104 I Dick Woodard (563) 422-3831
Andy Larson (563) 380-5401 I Dave Langreck (563) 778-2350

The links below will open a new browser window. Close the newly opened window to return to this site.
Early in 2008, the city of West Union was chosen as one of two new Green Pilot Communities by the Iowa Department of Economic Development. This pilot project will create best practices and allow the city to serve as a model for other communities to become more environmentally friendly. West Union will receive technical assistance, training, and financial incentives from IDED to complete a new, environmentally responsible and innovative streetscape. The first step on the "green" journey included a Green Pilot Workshop held in June 2008 to brainstorm and research green applications that could be incorporated into the 6-block streetscape design currently being considered by community leaders. A schematic design is currently being developed and should be complete in July 2009.
Dick Woodard, President

Gail Hackman, Vice President

Michelle Zander, Secretary

Carolyn Havenstrite, Treasurer

Robin Bostrom, Executive Director

Greg Ptacek, Organization Chair

Jon Biederman, Design Chair

Troy Johansen, Business Improvement Chair

Erin Heins, Promotion Chair

Ron Saboe

Sean Singewald

Derek Heins

Mike Lauer

Mike O'Brien
Using a "Four Point Approach", Main Street is Economic Development within the context of Historic Preservation.

The four points are:

Design:
The Design aspect of Main Street focuses on having attractive buildings, streets, signage and landscaping. Main Street works with local building owners by providing design assistance visits and creating financial assistance tools such as the Main Street Façade Improvement grants. We also work to educate the public about good design and Historic Preservation.

Organization:
The Organizational facet of Main Street works toward establishing strong communication between citizens, businesses, city and county government. Organization ensures that the program is well structured, well funded, and committed to the future. Our Organization Committee works to organize human and financial resources by managing fund raising, recruiting volunteers and promoting the local Main Street program.

Promotion:
The role of Promotion is to create special community events, retail sales events, and build a positive image to attract people downtown. Main Street works with the Chamber of Commerce to lend additional support and promotion for local businesses and organizations to tout the Main Street District as a great place to be!

Business Improvement:
The goal of Business Improvement is to help our existing businesses remain strong as well as to recruit new businesses. Main Street sponsors educational activities, training and workshops for local businesses that promote good business practices as well as provide additional information for business improvement. Economic restructuring also works to enhance public spaces, improve buildings, and recruit new businesses to the downtown district.
Mike Lauer, President
Lauer & Lauer Insurance
123 North Vine Street
West Union, IA 52175
563-422-3871
lauerins@alpinecom.net

Greg Ptacek
Kerndt Brothers Savings Bank
205 North Vine Street
West Union, IA 52175
563-422-6072
gptacek@kerndtbrothers.com

Carolyn Havenstrite, Vice-President
Haven Electronics
128 North Vine Street
West Union, IA 52175
563-422-5751
wdradioshack@alpinecom.net

Ron O'Kones, Treasurer
563-422-5340
rokones@hotmail.com


Kevin Bemiss
Bemiss Distributing Company
101 South Industrial Parkway
West Union, IA 52175
563-422-6095
bemiss@bemissdistributing.com

Tobin Britt
First National Bank
115 North Vine Street
West Union, IA 52175
563-422-3883
tbritt@fnbwu.com

Deb Chensvold
Palmer Lutheran Health Center
112 Jefferson Street
West Union, IA 52175
563-422-3811
dchensvold@palmerlutheran.org

Jerem White
Elwood, O'Donohoe, Stochl, Braun & Churbuck
125 North Vine Street
West Union, IA 52175
563-422-5631
elwoodlaw@alpinecom.net

Appointed/Ex officio Members:



Bob Vagts
City Administrator, City of West Union
612 Hwy. 150 South
West Union, IA 52175
563-422-3908
>cityofwestunionadmin@alpinecom.net

Jackie Loomis
President, West Union Chamber of Commerce
101 North Vine Street
West Union, IA 52175
563-422-3119
jacksue@netins.net

Dick Woodard
President, Main Street West Union
101 North Vine Street
West Union, IA 52175
563-422-6072
dwoodard@woodard-insurance.com

Vicki Rowland
Fayette County Supervisor
P.O. Box 267
West Union, IA 52175
563-422-3538
vrowland@co.fayette.ia.us.com

Robin Bostrom
Executive Director, Fayette County Economic Development
101 N.Vine Street
West Union, IA 52175
563-422-5073
director@fayettecountyia.com

Jennifer Fuentes
President, Kaleidoscope Kids
West Union, IA 52175
563-422-9792
jbfuente@palmerlutheran.org

Merlin Dunt
Mayor, City of West Union
612 Hwy 150 South
P.O. Box 151
West Union, IA 52175
563-422-3908
ndunt@alpinecom.net
The George L. Scott Municipal Airport has recently expanded its runway to measure 4250 feet x 60 feet. The manager is Dale Halverson.

Click on the link below to map the location and learn other details about our conveniently located airport which attracts a wealth of shoppers, business travelers and tourists.
Palmer Lutheran Health Center (PLHC) is a progressive, not-for-profit, 25-bed Critical Access Hospital situated between the scenic hills and prairies in northeast Iowa. Located in West Union, Iowa, seat of county government for Fayette County, the hospital serves a population base in excess of 15,000. The hospital is affiliated with Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, LaCrosse, Wisconsin, and is devoted to providing excellence in medical care in a compassionate, caring atmosphere.

The mission of Palmer Lutheran Health Center is to meet the health care needs of our communities, recognizing that people, knowledge and technology are our greatest assets.
Jackie Loomis, President

Lisa Miller, Vice-President

Deb Merrill, Secretary

Brian Reichter, Treasurer

Robin Bostrom, Executive Director

Justin Steinlage

Jason Zander

Cheryl Meyer

Brent Parker
Click on the link below to view the minutes from the most recent Chamber of Commerce's Board meeting.
If your visit to West Union requires an overnight stay, we have several options available. From privately owned motels to national chains or quaint bed and breakfast homes, you'll be able to find just the right place to get a great night's rest in West Union.

Click on the link below to view West Union's Code of Ordinances.
Click below to view the Chamber of Commerce's newsletters.
Click below to view our quarterly newsletter.
Thank you for contacting us. We will reply shortly. Feel free to contact us by phone - 563.422.3070.
West Union Chamber of Commerce
101 North Vine Street
West Union, IA 52175
563.422.3070
Term: 6 years

Jeff Miller (Chair)
352 S. Vine St.
422-6174
Ends: 12/1/2013

Tom Grapes
157 Franklin St.
422-3275
Ends: 12/1/2010

Steve Metcalf
207 Meadow Lane
422-5838
Ends: 12/1/2012

Verl Timm
700 Crestview Dr.
422-3881
Ends: 12/1/2015

Adam Keller
106 Bradford Street
563-518-1047
Ends: 12/1/2012
West Union's City Council consists of a mayor, a city administrator, a city clerk and five council members. Meetings are held on the first and third Mondays of each month beginning at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.

Mayor: Merlin Dunt; term ends 1/1/12

City Council Members:
Roy Guenther - 563-422-3572; term ends 1/1/14
Britt Dyke - 563-422-5052; term ends 1/1/14
Karen Halva - 563-422-5871; term ends 1/1/12
Marc Rue - 563-422-5979; term ends 1/1/12
Troy Schott - 563-380-0428; term ends 1/1/12

City Administrator: Bob Vagts
cityofwestunionadmin@alpinecom.net
Phone Number: 563-422-3908

City Clerk: Amie Johansen
Phone Number: 563-422-3908
Term: 5 years

Lynn Kelck (Chair)
115 N. Oak St.
422-3269
Ends: 12/1/2013

Bob Heins
304 Auburn St.
422-3630
Ends: 12/1/2010

Steve Heyer
PO Box 306
422-3310
Ends: 12/1/2012

Randy Petsche
106 Jones St.
422-5151
Ends: 12/1/2012

Reggie Gross
704 N. Vine St.
422-3723
Ends: 12/1/2011

Steve Roach
128 Cook St.
422-5676
Ends: 12/1/2014

Bill Nelson
502 Russell Ave.
422-5113
Ends: 12/1/2011
"Never doubt that a small group of committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." -Margaret Mead
______________________________________________


________________________________________________

"The highest reward for a person's work is not what they get for it, but what they become because of it."
John Ruskin

Fill out the form and get registered as a volunteer so your contribution of talent, skill and interest is matched with community need, projects, and initiatives.

The West Union Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary group of area businesses affiliated for the purpose of furthering the growth and development of West Union. Primary among the purposes of this organization is:

► Fostering cooperation and mutual support among the members.
► Using the collective expertise of the members to provide guidance and direction to policy makers as it pertains to Chamber members.
► Working consistently to enhance the long-term competitive posture of the community of West Union as it pertains to Chamber members.
► Providing the means for members to informally exchange ideas and development techniques.
► Affording members the opportunity to enhance their knowledge, expertise, confidence, and professionalism through a varied program of educational activities.
► Promote community involvement through Chamber sponsored recreational, promotional and retail activities.
The West Union Chamber of Commerce is a group of over 100 businesses that work together to promote the community through joint retail events, community celebrations and educational opportunities for our members and the community as a whole.

Our members enjoy many benefits including:

Monthly Newsletter
Group Advertising Opportunities with Discounted Rates for Special Events
Weekly email updates
Free Workshops and Educational Events
Chamber "After Five" Networking Events
Local Representation at Regional & State Events
Sponsorship Opportunities
Discounted Rates for Photocopies and Color Printing
Free Custom Graphic Design Service
And so much more...
Bemiss Distributing Co. is leading the way in going green. How? The company replaced 75 of its light fixtures with energy saving Orion Compact Modulars. The investment will reduce the company’s electricity consumption by 55 percent from 108,471 to 48,505 kWh and its carbon footprint by 184 tons! Think of their go green efforts as the environmental equivalent of saving 99,005 gallons of gasoline or planting 11 trees or taking 10 cars off the road. The Environmental Stewardship Award the company recently received is well deserved!
The wholesale beer distributor’s reduced energy consumption will also save some green… to the tune of 5,925 dollars per year. Money saved is not the only benefit President Gary Bemiss communicates. The lights don’t have to warm up, are brighter, and provide 50 percent more light.
“This is a great project that will not only help Bemiss save on energy costs, but also help save the environment,” Orion President Neal Verfuerth said. “And, in conjunction with West Union’s mission to become more environmentally friendly, Bemiss is setting an example for other companies about how they can achieve better lighting at a reduced cost. It’s a win-win.”
Get registered as a West Union Cultivator by filling out the form below. When you register as a volunteer your contribution of talent, skill and interest is matched with community need, projects, and initiatives.

Contact
Benjamin Lewis
Telephone (563) 422-3070
or stop in the Chamber Office
101 North Vine Street, West Union, IA
or by email at vista@fayettecountyia.com
today!
The West Union Rec Center is located on North Pine Street, adjacent to the Aquatic Center. This beautiful and functional outdoor recreational and social gathering place is perfectly placed on 40 acres of pristine land. Enjoy peace and quite while relaxing in a scenic green space, complete with playground equipment, 2½ miles of paved walking/biking paths, softball and baseball diamonds, two soccer fields and several ponds for “catch and release” fishing.

Construction is currently underway to add more amenities! The plan consists of new tennis courts/basketball courts, a gazebo which will serve as an additional shelter house, expansion of one of the existing soccer fields to serve also as a youth (5th thru 6th grade) football field, a T-ball field and two grass volleyball courts. One soccer field will remain, as well. These additions will make what is already a wonderful place in which to relax and play even better.

A completely hand-made bridge crafted and erected by local folks is positioned across one of the larger ponds and is used by visitors of all ages. A gazebo is located in the middle of the bridge where there is seating available to enjoy the view.

Reservations for the shelter house can be made by contacting Dick Woodard at 563-422-3831.
Welcome home to West Union, Iowa where warm greetings and friendly neighbors embrace quality of life.

Make your first stop the Chamber of Commerce office where we'll share a smile and a packet of information to guide you to local businesses, utilities/services, health care, recreation, library, parks, schools and educational opportunities.

Next, discover community with our churches and civic organizations or find your new neighbor on the housing in West Union page.

Get connected and involved with the community by volunteering for upcoming projects and events. Visit West Union's Volunteer Opportunities page often!

From work to play, quality of life is reflected in everything we do in West Union. Explore our local...

Employment Opportunities

Financial Institutions

Government

Insurance



Expanding your knowledge is convenient with three area higher learning facilities all less than thirty minutes from West Union.

Upper Iowa University in Fayette - Visit http://www.uiu.edu

Northeast Iowa Community College in Calmar - Visit http://www.nicc.edu

Luther College in Decorah - Visit http://www.luther.edu


Click on this link for a downloadable version of the 2009 Facade Improvement Grant. The Main Street Design Committee as well as a Main Street of Iowa Design Consultant will assist the property owner/tenant with recommendations in line with the program guidelines, such as the type of improvements, extent of improvements, and historical accuracy, at no charge. A design visit from Main Street Iowa Design staff is required.
In 2008, West Union decided to champion the practices of sustainable urban design, and was designated a Green Pilot Program by the Iowa Department of Economic Development. WU's streetscape is a transformational compilation of design elements that collectively reshape the public spaces of sidewalks and streets as a place that is more comfortable for walking than driving.

As a green Pilot Project, West Union is a pioneer in establishing best practices for the implementation of green infrastructure. West Union realizes that urban areas are part of, not separate from, the natural cycles of the prairie. And will serve as a model and outdoor classroom to communities that want to improve their economic viability through sustainable green infrastructure. Water, is treated as a resource instead of an obstacle.
West Union is the kind of place everyone would like to call home. Nestled in the rolling hills of northern Fayette County, the community serves as the county seat and is home to 2,549 residents. West Union has been a Main Street Community since 2006, was selected as a Green Pilot Community in 2008, and this year has been named an Iowa Great Place!

West Union is a beautiful community of tree-lined streets, well-kept homes, and family-owned businesses. It is home to North Fayette Community Schools, Palmer Lutheran Health Center, the Fayette County Fair, and Echo Valley Speedway. You can catch a football game on Friday night, take a walk in our many parks, catch a concert in the Performing Arts Center, or watch the dirt-track races at one of two race tracks. If you love the great outdoors, hunting, or fishing, we have some of the state's best right in our backyard including well-stocked trout streams, wild turkey, and white-tail deer. No matter what your age or interest, West Union and the surrounding area have something for you. Come for a visit and meet our people. We think you'll like what you see!
July 4th - Fireworks at the West Union Rec Center
10:00 p.m.

Fayette County Fair - July 27 - 31
Come see our booth at the fair!

FAYETTE - Disease and pest control can be challenging for gardeners.  Managing pests without the use of chemicals can be even harder.  ISU Extension is hosting a webinar on July 27 to outline the basics of managing your landscape organically. Pest control for vegetable gardening and ornamentals will be discussed.

 

Dr. Kathleen Delate, Departments of Horticulture and Agronomy, Iowa State University will present this session which is part of the Summer Webinar Series: Gardening Green 2010 brought to you by the Iowa Master Gardener program.  The host site in northeast Iowa is the Fayette County Extension office in Fayette. 

 

The live, interactive webcast will be held on July 27 from 6:30-8:30 pm.  Pre-registration is required.  Contact Ben Lewis at Fayette County Economic Development to register, 800-477-5073 or Click here to register online

 

The final installment of this series will be about Rain Gardens in Iowa and will be offered on Aug. 24 at the same time and place.  Rain gardens are a great way to manage storm water in your landscape. This topic will be covered by Dr. Ann Marie VanDerZanden, Department of Horticulture, Iowa State University. Master Gardener education credit is available for both programs













City Administrator: Bob Vagts
612 Highway 150 South
cityofwestunionadmin@alpinecom.net
563-422-3908

Open 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Save the date! -and maybe your neighborhood too.

When and Where? Tuesday, August 3rd from 6:30-8PM, location is still TBD

Building on the urban storm water mitigation installations behind Woodard Insurance, and talking about how your everyday actions and choices effect the world, AmeriCorps VISTA Ben Lewis, will show you some simple ways to "Go Green" and take care of the environment. Three, twenty-minute presentations will start at 6:30, 7:00, and 7:30PM.

Then, come back Thursday evening to REDUCE, REUSE & recycle!!!

Thursday evening will feature some fresh from the garden local food and end with a DIY rain barrel and vermicomposting workshop in the grass behind Zion Lutheran Church (click Here for a map). This is a hands on workshop where you will participate in upcycling and dig your hands into home-made dirt.

Yes, worms will eat your garbage, and you can water your plants with harvested rain!

More detailed information to come. Stay Tuned!
Merlin Dunt has served as Mayor since 1989.
When it comes to good food, West Union has many varieties to choose from. Fast food to homemade goodies, sports bar to authentic Chinese fare. Whatever your taste buds are craving, we can satisfy your urge!

JOIN A LEAGUE!

Call Ron about joining a summer league.

Enjoy a full service bowling center featuring 8 lanes, leagues for all ages, restaurant and bar. Reserve the center for a bowling party to celebrate that special occasion.
Call Ron to sign up for a league TODAY at 422-3594!

Hours of Operation

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday open at 3:00 p.m.
Thursday, Friday and Saturday open at Noon.
Sunday open at 1:00 p.m.
Click on the link below to learn about our housing assistance program to those who qualify.
July 22nd from 5 - 7. Join the businesses in the alley between West Elm and West Plum Streets for a round of mini golf, have some snacks and play a game of bags. See you there!
H & H Foodservice
304 South Vine Street
West Union, IA 52175
Term: 5 years

Tex Heyer (Chair)
P.O. Box 306
316 1/2 E. Elm Street
422-3602 - work
422-3789 - home
Ends: 1/1/2011

Charles Broghammer
201 Adams Street
422-3728
Ends: 1/1/2015

Bruce Fink
415 S. Pine Street
422-3381
Ends: 1/1/2014

Richard Hartkemeyer
214 S. Walnut Street
422-5471
Ends: 1/1/2013

Larry Daniels
428 S. Pine Street
422-5138
Ends: 1/1/2011
Minutes from past Main Street West Union Board meetings, starting with the most recent.
Minutes from past West Union Chamber of Commerce Board meetings, starting with the most recent.
Minutes from past West Union City Council meetings, starting with the most recent.
Shafar Fiberglass Inc.
10615 Echo Valley Road
West Union , IA 52175
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Supervisor: Barry Kamm
Phone: 563-380-7691
The Aquatic Center is located on North Pine Street, just north of the North Fayette High School and adjacent to the West Union Rec Center, an adjoining 40 acre recreation and social gathering area.

For more information, contact Kathy Guyer with West Union Park & Rec:
Phone: 563-422-5571
Email: kdguyer@gmail.com

Or, click on the link below for the West Union Park & Rec web site.



CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WEST UNION SWIM TEAM FOR TAKING 1ST PLACE AT CONFERENCE! WAY TO GO!!
Term: 5 years

Tex Heyer (Chair)
PO Box 306
316 ½ E. Elm St.
422-3602 work
422-3789 home
Ends: 1/2/2015

Justine Nesvik
406 S. Pine St.
422-5312
Ends: 1/2/2011

Marcy Alcorn
408 E. Plum St.
422-5279
Ends: 1/2/2014

Deb Luhman
114 Fleet St.
422-5895
Ends: 1/2/2013

Duane Jellings
103 – 4th St. SE
422-3634
Ends: 1/2/2012

Mission Statement

The mission of Main Street West Union is to preserve and enhance the vitality of our downtown through the education and encouragement of all citizens to work together to promote our community as a vibrant place to shop, work and live.



Vision Statement

West Union will tap the talents of its citizens to create a vibrant county seat community where things are happening. Education and collaboration among all citizens combined with strong leadership will increase community spirit and awareness. Restored buildings will house thriving businesses with every storefront filled. More people will be strolling and shopping in the clean and well-lit downtown. Growth from new West Union residents, more students in the local school system and good working committees will bring more volunteers who will help ensure that our downtown is an exciting place to work, find information, shop, live and have fun. Our revitalized town will be a place where people love to go and want to return.

Black Hills Custom Rebate Program for Businesses

FREE Business Energy Audit

FREE Farm Energy Audit

FREE Home Energy Audit

Energy Efficiency Programs

Energy-Efficiency and Renewable Energy Tax Credits

Iowa Business Rewards

Iowa Commercial and Industrial Cash Rewards

Iowa Energy Efficiency Programs

Iowa Farm Incentive

Iowa Incentive Program for Your Home

Iowa New Construction Incentives

Iowa Prescriptive Rebate Program

Energy Audit and Rebate Resources for your Home, Business, and Farm

Black Hills Custom Rebate Program for Businesses

Energy Efficiency Programs

Energy-Efficiency and Renewable Energy Tax Credits

Federal Tax Credits For Consumer Energy Efficiency

FREE Business Energy Audit

FREE Farm Energy audit

FREE Home Energy Audit

Iowa Business Rewards

Iowa Commercial and Industrial Cash Rewards

Iowa Energy Efficiency Programs

Iowa Farm Incentives

Iowa Home Incentive Programs

Iowa New Construction Incentives

Prescriptive Rebates Program

Director: Tara Johnson
Phone: 563-422-3103
· 7775 Square Foot Pool
· 132 Foot Body Waterslide
· 8 Competitive Swim Lanes
· Zero Depth Entry
· Full Service Concession Area (Usable During Off Season)
· Interactive Water Elements
· Ample Paved Parking
Term: 6 years

Dean Thomas (Chair)
411 Sandra Terrace
422-3724
Ends: 7/1/2010

Bill Moellering
344 S. Vine St.
422-3571
Ends: 7/1/2016

Katherine Jones
323 S. Vine St.
422-3289
Ends: 7/1/2012

Debra Grant
709 Sunset Blvd.
422-5251
Ends: 7/1/2015

Anne Britt
507 N. Vine Street
422-9370
Ends: 7/1/2015

Blake Brown
106 Lincoln Court
422-3853
Ends: 7/1/2014

Lezley Johansen
24861 Juniper Rd
422-5593
Ends: 7/1/2014
Congratulations!  You're making energy efficient changes to your lighting and looking forward to significant savings in the near future.   But how do you know that you are being environmentally considerate?  As part of our Green Pilot Project, Main Street West Union is encouraging all participating businesses to properly recycle their old bulbs and ballasts. 
Some ballasts may contain PCBs.  PCBs are regulated primarily by the EPA's Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), with TSCA regulations defining how PCBs may be used, processed, distributed, manufactured, exported, and/or imported; storage and disposal options; spill clean-up requirements; and how PCB owners must keep records of equipment containing PCBs. Because of potential health hazards and the damaging effects to the environment resulting from improper disposal, government regulations require any facility discarding ballasts containing PCB's or other toxic components to have their ballasts disposed of by a permitted facility. 
A-Tec, the only in state recycler of PCB ballasts will supply barrels, collect, and sort our ballasts.  The company's recycling fee of $1.00 per non PCB ballast is being waived in support of West Union's Green Pilot Project.  PCB ballasts will be recycled for .95 per lb.  Please contact Larry Young to make arrangements to recycle your old ballasts at 800-551-4912.
Showroom: Approximately 2160 sq. ft. of lighted showroom and office area. Newer floor-coverings and restrooms. Good access by way of a covered interior hallway.

Warehouse: Over 3,000 sq. ft. of heated warehouse space. Low maintenance steel roof with nearly full clear-span design.

Dock: Covered rear loading dock on the west side of the building allows for easy loading and unloading of trucks.

This property also includes 1040 sq. ft. of currently leased space providing other income to the property. Approximately 6,800 sq. ft. of asphalt parking lot is included.
By Mayor Merlin Dunt
COMMITTEE                     COUNCIL MEMBERS

Landfill/Recycling Guenther - Rue
Grievance/Employee Benefits Halva - Dyke
Building - Grounds Guenther - Halva
Finance/Purchasing Guenther - Dyke
Utility Halva - Schott
Fire Dyke - Rue
Street Schott - Rue
Planning/Codification Rue - Halva
Police Schott - Guenther
Appointed Board Liaison Rue - Halva
Mayor Pro- Tem Troy Schott

* Note - Name listed first will serve as chairperson of Committee
Director: Kathy Guyer
Phone: 563-422-3685

West Union’s strong Park and Recreation Program provides activities for all skill and age groups. Organized youth activities include flag football, soccer, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, open gym time, t-ball, baseball, softball, swim meets, swimming lessons, scuba classes, sewing classes, computer classes, bowling and ice skating. Adults can take advantage of “Lighten Up Iowa”, lap swim, water aerobics, co-ed volleyball, co-ed horseshoes and senior citizen cards. Our Park and Recreation Department also hosts several other events:

• West Union Triathlon
• Children’s Theater Camp
• “Swim and a Movie”
• Pool Carnival
• Pool Parties
• Snow Sculpture Contest
• Pitch, Hit & Run Contest
• Punt, Pass & Kick Contest
• Hershey Track Meet
• Art-in-the-Park
Supervisor: Chief Jim Davies
Phone: 563-422-3535
Email: jim@wupd.com
Golf hours: Monday thru Friday - 10am 'til dark
Saturday and Sunday - 9am 'til dark
*Course available pending weather conditions
Clubhouse Open Daily for golfers: 10am 'til close

Friday Evenings Supper Available for Public Dining 4pm til close which is typically 9pm.

Contact Tina @ 563-380-6629 to discuss booking the clubhouse for private events, weddings, class reunions or any occasion.
Director: Kathy Guyer
kdguyer@gmail.com
Phone: 563-422-5571

Term: 4 years

Clint Rodgers (Chair)
211 S. Walnut St.
422-9219
Ends: 4/1/2012

Kelli Lau
115 Monroe St.
422-6015
Ends: 4/01/2011

Doug DeMuth
321 E. Elm St.
422-5925
Ends: 4/1/2013

Tim Feldman
706 Sunset Blvd.
422-8897
Ends: 4/1/2014

Tina Halverson
110 Cook St.
422-8877
Ends: 4/01/2011

Duane Fennemen
340 E. Elm
West Union, IA 52175
422-5577
Ends: 4/01/2011

Kathy Wenthold
706 Rainbow Ave.
422-5168
Ends: 4/01/2012
Supervisor: Rory Starks
Phone: 563-380-8534
Water Superintendent: Mike Moser
Phone: 563-380-6596

Waste Water Superintendent: Scott Johansen
Phone: 563-380-6595

Water Department: Doug Harris
Phone: 563-380-6595
Conveniently located off of Echo Valley Road, Echo Valley State Park is home to excellent trout streams as well as the Echo Valley Environmental Nature Trail (EVENT). To read more about this peaceful haven, click on the link below.