Thank you to everyone who joined us for the town hall with Mayor Jill Shudak and City staff. The evening focused on recent progress, major projects, and what’s ahead for Council Bluffs. Mayor Shudak shared her focus on accountability, transparency, and strong community partnerships.
First 90 days: what’s been done
Mayor Shudak has been working closely with city leadership in reviewing operations and identifying ways to improve efficiency. Key actions include:
- Meeting with all department leaders to identify needs and opportunities
- Launching City Connect, an instant messenger tool for internal communication
- Beginning policy reviews and updates
- Moving Animal Control under the Police Department
- Identifying gaps in technology and coordination between departments
Work will continue through ongoing policy reviews and staff engagement.
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East Manawa Subdivision
Phase I of the E. Manawa Subdivision is officially underway, bringing new life to this expansive 93-acre development. At the heart of it all is Mallard Street — the anchor road of Council Bluffs' newest subdivision and a foundation for the community taking shape around it.
- Forty new attached homes under construction
- Designed for households at or below 80% of median income
- Features include tornado shelters and quality construction
- Prices starting around $175,000
River’s Edge – Phase Four (opening this summer)
Southwest Iowa Nonprofit for Collective Impact (SINC) is conducting the fundraising and management for River's Edge Phase Four in partnership with the City of Council Bluffs. Tax increases are not part of the River's Edge funding plan. Phase Four is funded entirely by private donations which have been raised by SINC. The estimated budget is $50 million, and all of the funds have been committed by private donors and area foundations. The Iowa West Foundation provided the lead gift of $16.5 million.
River's Edge Phase Four builds on years of investment at River’s Edge and adds new experiences for residents and visitors.
New amenities
- Borman Family Treetop Walk: a half-mile elevated trail through the woodland
- Lakin Foundation Pier: a new above-water experience with seating and play features
- MidAmerican Adventure Tower: a 138-foot tower with climbing, views, and outdoor activities
Big Lake Park playground
Big Lake Park playground improvements are coming soon. Plans include adding new equipment and seating areas to improve the playground and create a better experience for families.
Mayor’s 311
A new tool to help residents report concerns and connect with City services is launching in phases. Have a concern to share? The Council Bluffs Mayor’s 311 makes it easy to connect with the City, submit a report, and stay informed along the way.
- “Report an Encampment” is live now
- Additional features will roll out by June 30 and replace the current “Report A Concern” feature on the website
Mayor’s 311 connects your concerns directly to the right team. Once submitted, your report is reviewed, routed, and tracked through completion so nothing falls through the cracks. This centralized system helps the City respond more quickly and consistently while improving communication along the way.
Access it here: https://mayors-311-cbpw.hub.arcgis.com/
2050 Comprehensive Plan and Downtown Master Plan kickoff
The City is planning for the next 25 years, and community input is essential. The 2050 Comprehensive Plan and Downtown Master Plan will guide how Council Bluffs grows, invests, and evolves. From neighborhoods and housing to downtown spaces and local businesses, this work will impact daily life across the community. Together, residents and City leaders can create a Council Bluffs that reflects what matters most to the people who call it home.
There are many ways to get involved and help shape the future of Council Bluffs. There will be opportunities to engage both online and in person through questionnaires, surveys, and community workshops.
Grow CB
Mayor Shudak announced Grow CB, a collaborative initiative led in partnership with Iowa West Foundation and the CB Chamber. This initiative is designed to bring together local nonprofits, business leaders, and regional partners to support strategic growth and strengthen the community. By aligning resources and priorities, Grow CB aims to advance housing, workforce development, economic opportunity, and neighborhood investment to improve quality of life for residents.
Community feedback sessions will be scheduled soon. If you’d like to participate sign up here: https://bit.ly/3RkcIge
Upcoming events
There’s a lot happening in the community. Visit www.unleashcb.com/events for the full calendar.
- Clean Sweep – May 5
- Celebrate CB Parade/Train Days – May 9
- Wall That Heals – May 22–25
- Public Works Open House – May 23
- Summerfest at River’s Edge – June 5
- Council Bluffs Celebrates 250 – July 3
Ways to stay connected
Communication remains a top priority. Mayor Shudak will have another town hall in the fall. In the meantime, there are multiple ways to stay connected with the City.
