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1. What is the snow ordinance?

The purpose of the City’s snow ordinance is for citizens to move their vehicles from public streets and parking lots allowing for effective snow removal. Plows make multiple passes before a street is fully cleared, therefore drivers must not park vehicles on public streets or parking lots until the ordinance is officially lifted. Vehicles parked on public grounds during a snow emergency will be issued a parking citation and towed if necessary.

When the snow ordinance is issued or lifted, the public is alerted through local media outlets. In addition, citizens can sign-up to receive notifications regarding the snow ordinance online or by texting “Join Snow” to 31002.

2. When will my street get plowed?

In order to make the most efficient use of available resources for snow and ice control operations, priorities have been established. Depending upon the severity of the snow / ice event, deviation could occur. Established priorities fall in this order:

1. Arterials and collectors (the minimum street network which must be kept open to provide a transportation system for police, fire, and rescue)
   
2. Central Business District
   
3. All remaining streets
   
4. Alleys
   
5. Parking lots
   
6. Cul de Sac clean-up

3. How do I know that my drinking water is safe?

The Water Treatment Plant is proud to report that all Federal and state requirements are continuously met or exceeded. The annual Water Quality Report contains important information regarding the water quality for the City of Pella customers.

4. How do I report a pothole on my street?

Utilize the Report a Concern function on this website. Or call the Public works Department at 641.628.1601 to report. Please provide detailed information on the location of the pothole, address/cross streets, etc.

5. How do I know if I have a water leak?

A toilet flapper leak, overflow leaking, or a dripping faucet can easily waste thousands of gallons of water each month. To determine if you have a leak in your home, turn off all of your water inside and outside of your home, but leave your shutoff valve open. Your meter has a small red dial or triangle on its face that is used as a leak detector. If this is moving at all, you have a water leak. By knowing your home's water system, you can avoid unnecessary water usage.

6. What do I do if I smell a sewer odor in my basement?

This is usually caused by an empty drain trap somewhere in the house that is allowing sewer odor back in to the house. You should periodically pour water down every drain trap in the house. Be sure to use enough water to completely fill each trap.