Wake Up Tri-Counties Galva Mayor Volkert Recaps the August 2026 City Council Meeting

Galva Mayor Rich Volkert recently joined Ken Peel on Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss several topics from the latest Galva City Council meeting, including a new city slogan, upcoming road work, playground improvements, and a potential review of the city's fireworks regulations. One of the biggest announcements from the meeting was the adoption of a new slogan for the City of Galva: “Where Music Lives, Small Town, Big Sound.” Volkert explained that Galva was once known as “The City of Go,” a title coined years ago by George Helgeson Fitch, a well-known writer associated with Knox College who was also involved in broadcasting. The new slogan reflects Galva's growing reputation as a music destination, particularly through events such as the Levitt AMP Galva Music Series, Backroads, and other musical performances held throughout the community. Volkert credited Mike and Jane Martin, who have been active in Galva's music scene, with helping develop the new slogan. The City Council officially adopted it during its recent meeting. The city is also working on merchandise, including T-shirts and other items featuring the new branding. Road Work Planned for August Volkert also reminded residents about upcoming road work scheduled for August 12th through August 15th. Henry County crews are expected to conduct chip-and-oil work in the northeast portion of Galva, extending from North Center Avenue east toward the water plant and railroad tracks. The mayor asked residents in the affected area to take precautions during the project, including avoiding parking on the streets where the work is taking place and refraining from blowing grass clippings into the roadway. “We don't want to oil anybody's cars,” Volkert said, emphasizing the importance of keeping the work area clear so crews can complete the project properly. City Reviewing Fireworks Regulations Another issue discussed during the council meeting involved Galva's fireworks regulations. Volkert said the city's fireworks ordinance has not been updated since 1980. Following concerns raised after this year's Fourth of July celebrations, city officials are considering whether changes may be appropriate. The mayor said the city wants residents to continue enjoying the Fourth of July while also addressing safety and quality-of-life concerns associated with fireworks being discharged for extended periods. “We want the Fourth to be a great celebration,” Volkert said. “We want everybody to have a good time. But we're going to take a look at what we can do.” Volkert said the city does not intend to rush into changes. The police chief and city attorney are expected to work on possible recommendations before the matter is brought back to the City Council. He said any potential changes would likely not be decided until sometime next year. Playground Project Continues Galva's new playground equipment was also discussed. Volkert said residents have questioned why the equipment has not yet been completely installed. He explained that the playground was selected by a committee of local citizens, but the project has experienced delays because not all of the necessary parts have arrived. About two-thirds of the playground is complete and available for use, and the city hopes to finish the remaining work within the next month or sooner. Volkert also noted that the city continues to work on various projects and issues while maintaining communication with residents. He encouraged Galva residents to contact City Hall when they notice problems or have concerns so officials can address them as quickly as possible.