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Book Club Sets

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1. Can I check out a book club set from JPL?

Yes. You can check out an available single book or multiple copies for your book club group.

2. How long can I keep the set?

Book club sets check out for six weeks.

3. Can I renew my book club book(s)?

Since our book club books sets are often on the move to other libraries or book clubs, they may not be renewed.

4. How do I find out what sets JPL lends and if they are available?

Go to the Johnston Public Library website, hover over Browse, and select Book Club Sets from the drop-down menu. You may browse the entire collection or refine your search by clicking on Status: Checked-In Titles Only. A helpful summary is listed after each book title.

5. How do I place a hold on a book club set or book?

1. Call the library at 515-278-5233, ext. 619 and ask Lori for assistance in placing a set on hold.
2. From the JPL website go to Browse select Book Club Setn then Refine (checked-in titles only). After selecting a title, select on the Place Hold button. Choose one or multiple copies. Choosing multiple copies will open an order form. Enter the number of copies needed, dates of group handout and discussion, and if you have not already logged in to your account, your barcode number. The submitted form will be sent to a staff person who will fill your order, check it out to your account, and alert you when it is ready to be picked up. If you do not already have a library card, please call the Circulation Desk for assistance.

6. Should each person from my book club check out their own copy?

We find that it is best to have the book club set checked out on one account.

7. How do I pick up a reserved book club set?

When you are notified by email or phone call that your set is ready for pick up, please come to the Circulation Desk. A staff member will give you your checked-out book club set in a tote bag. You are on your way!

8. How do I return a book club set?

Please bring your set (including the tote bag), to the Circulation Desk. Staff will take care of checking it in!

9. What if someone from my group has not returned their book and the set is due?

No problem. Bring in the set and we will check in the returned books. We will then work with you in resolving the missing book.

10. Is there any additional information for Book Club Leaders?

Want to read the latest titles or more popular items? It's a great idea to reserve book club sets in advance. Assemble a list of titles your club would like to read and we will help you reserve them when they are available.

Need recommendations or just need to know what is available now? Call 515-278-5233, ext. 619 and speak with Lori, or stop by weekdays between 12:00 pm and 5:00 pm to chat in person. We can prepare an available book club set while you wait, complete with discussion questions.

Brief summaries of all of our titles are available on our website. This may help your group choose the next read. If you want to get further acquainted with a book, we will often have single copies available for checkout.

Review all Book Set FAQs (PDF).

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E-Books & E-Audiobooks

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1. How many titles can I check out?

5 titles per library card at any given time.

2. What is the loan period for e-books & e-audiobooks?

14 days.

3. How do I return an e-book or e-audiobook

See these instructions on how to return titles before they're due.

4. How do I renew an e-book or e-audiobook?

A title may be renewed one time if it has not been requested by another borrower. Check out renewal instructions from OverDrive.

5. Why can't I find the title or author I want?

Unfortunately, not all books and audiobooks are available electronically. In addition, some publishers have decided not to make their e-titles available to libraries. In any case, if you don't see the title you want at Bridges make a purchase request; we'll see if it's available for purchase and let you know if we decide to add it to Bridges.

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Interlibrary Loan

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1. What is interlibrary loan and how does it work?

Interlibrary loan (ILL) is a network of libraries throughout the United States who agree to lend materials to each other. When the Johnston Public Library doesn’t own an item, we can ask other libraries to send it to us so that we can lend it to you.

2. How is ILL different from a purchase request?

Use the ILL request for items that have been published for at least six months or for items that wouldn’t be of general interest to other library patrons. Submit a purchase request for new or forthcoming items or titles that you think would appeal to others.

3. How many items can I request at a time?

You can have up to five active requests at a time. This gives you time to read, listen to, or view the material before it is due back to the lending library.

4. What can I not order through ILL?

We don’t borrow materials that we own. Place a hold for an item in our collection that is currently checked out. We don’t borrow items that were published within the past six months. Submit a purchase request or wait six months before submitting an ILL request. We don’t borrow puppets, molds, cake pans, or learning tools. E-books and e-audiobooks are subject to licensing agreements and are not eligible for ILL.

5. Is there a charge for ILL?

Johnston Public Library does not charge for this service. Sometimes, the lending library will charge a fee which we would pass on to you. We will always talk to you about any fees before agreeing to borrow the item on your behalf.

6. How long will it take for my ILL to arrive?

It usually takes about 2 weeks for your ILL request to be available for pick-up. If it’s taking longer, we’ll call or e-mail you with an update. We’ll also let you know if we’re unable to borrow the item.

7. How will I know when to pick up my ILL?

ILLs are just like holds. We’ll notify you by the method you’ve chosen (text, e-mail, or phone) when the item is ready for you to pick up.

8. How long can I keep my ILL?

The lending library sets the due date. Generally, you’ll have 3 weeks to read, listen to, or view the item before it is due back at our library.

9. Can I renew my ILL?

Renewal is up to the lending library. Submit your request for renewal five days before the item is due. We’ll ask the lending library and let you know if they’re willing to extend the due date. If the lending library is willing, you may renew up to two times. If you’re still not through with the item, we ask that you return it and wait a month before submitting an ILL request to borrow it again.

10. Why do you put a wrapper around the item?

We wrap the item to remind you that you borrowed it from us even though it’s the property of another library. The barcode on the wrapper helps us track the item in our system. We want to be extra careful of another library’s material, so we ask that you hand it to a staff member instead of putting it in the book drop.

11. What if I obtain a copy elsewhere after I submit an ILL request?

Let us know if you want to cancel your ILL request. Sending materials between libraries costs time and postage. If you make a habit of not picking up material that we order for you, we’ll suspend your ILL privileges.

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Library - Computers, Printing, Wi-Fi & Other Technology

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1. Does the Library have Wi-Fi?

Yes. The Library’s free Wi-Fi network, called “JPL WiFi”, does not require a password or a Library card.

2. Can I fax documents at the library?

Yes. Check out our Printing, Scanning, and Faxing page for details.

3. Can I scan documents at the library?

Yes. Check out our Printing, Scanning, and Faxing page for details.

4. Can I use a computer at the library?

Yes. We have several Windows PCs with Internet access and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher). Computer users are welcome to install software on library PCs. Changes to PCs are reset after each session. Log in with your library card or stop at the reference desk for a guest pass.

Check out our Printing, Scanning, and Faxing page for information about printing from a library computer.

5. Can I make copies at the library?

Yes. Check out our Printing, Scanning, and Faxing page for details.

6. Can I print from a library computer?

Yes. Check out our Printing, Scanning, and Faxing page for details.

7. Can I use a library computer if I don’t have a library card?

Yes. We issue computer guest passes to those without a card but we encourage those that are eligible to apply for a library card.

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Library - Foundation

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1. Don’t my taxes pay for the Johnston Public Library?

While public funds make libraries possible, donations and community support allow libraries to flourish. Contributions, large and small, go to support technologies, programs, and community needs that are beyond the library's operating budget.

2. Is the Foundation a city entity?

No. The Johnston Public Library Foundation is an independent 501c(3) organization led and funded by community members like you.

3. How is the Foundation organized?

The Foundation has a Board made up of local volunteers. Elected positions on the board include a President, Vice president, Secretary, and Treasurer. The Library Director, the Library Board President, a member of the Friends of the Library, and nine to eleven additional members make up the rest of the Foundation Board. Interested in getting involved? Contact us to learn more.

4. What is the difference between the Library Board and the Library Foundation?

Library Board members are appointed by the mayor and approved by the city council. The Board makes administrative decisions for the library such as adopting policies and setting the budget. The Library Foundation works to raise private funds for library services and decides how those funds will be used.

5. How will my donation be used?

100% of your donation will be used to support collection development, programs, technology initiatives, and other library services. Contact us if you're interested in your donation being used for a specific project or need.

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Library - Getting a Library Card

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1. Can I get a library card if I don't live in Johnston?

Most likely, yes. Iowans from cities with libraries participating in Iowa's Open Access program-which includes nearly all Iowa cities-may apply for a Johnston Public Library card.

2. What if I lose my library card?

Replacement cards are issued at the library's checkout desk. There is a $1 fee for a replacement card. Please contact us if your library card is lost or stolen.

3. How do I get a library card?

Residents

Individuals who are residents of Johnston, residents of contracting communities, or residents of areas with libraries participating in Iowa's Open Access program may apply for a library card. Applicants under the age of 14 must have his/her application signed by a parent or guardian who must be present at the time the card is issued.

Applicants 18 & Older

Applicants 18 and older must present a driver's license or other government-issued photo ID that includes proof of his/her current street address. Applicants whose ID does not include their current street address, must also present a piece of mail or other document that includes their name and current street address.

Applicants 14 to 17

Applicants 14 to 17 years of age do not need to present a photo ID but must present a document that includes their name and current street address. A photo ID with proof of street address from a parent or guardian who is present at the time the card is issued is sufficient if the child's documentation is unavailable.

Applicants Younger Than 14

A photo ID with proof of street address from a parent or guardian is required for applicants under 14.

Please Note: Cards for children will not be issued to parents/guardians if the child is not present.

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Library - Home Delivery & Other Outreach Services

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1. Does the library offer home delivery services?

Yes. Check out our Home Delivery page for details.

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Library - Jobs at the Library

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1. Is the library hiring?

Library job openings are listed on the City of Johnston's website.

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Library - Meeting & Study Rooms

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1. Does the library have meeting or study rooms?

Yes. Check out our Meeting Room page for guidelines, room information, and to reserve a room.

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Library - Research

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1. Does the library have research databases?

We have several research databases including Consumer Reports, Novelist, and Ancestry Library Edition. Check out the complete list on our Research page for more information.

2. Does the library have Johnston High School Yearbooks?

We have several editions of Johnston High School yearbooks including some Beaconites. Our yearbooks are available for viewing in our Archive Room. Most are also available online. Yearbooks are not available for checkout.

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Library - Tax Forms, Notary, & Other In-Library Services

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1. Does the library offer notary services?

Yes. Check out our Notary page for details.

2. Does the library offer tax forms?

Check out our Tax Forms page for information about tax forms and tax help.

3. Can I take a proctored exam at the library?

This library offers test proctoring services.

• Arrangements must be made with library staff in advance. If a conference room or computer is required, it must be reserved prior to the testing.
• Call Johnston Public Library staff at 515-278-5233, ext. 3 to get JPL proctoring information to submit to your university or institution.
• The student must present a photo ID at the time of the exam. Student's belongings shall be left with library staff during testing. The time limit as well as all other notes designated on the test will be enforced.
• The library assumes no responsibility to the testing agency or the student if the student fails to make arrangements to take the exam within the time allotted by the agency.
• The library also reserves the right to refuse to proctor tests that require modifications to our public computers or require an undue burden on staff to closely monitor the activities of a student while taking the test.
• There is no charge for proctoring but the student is responsible for paying any postage fees associated with the test.
• Charge for postage varies on the rates and the class.

Please contact us with questions.

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Library - Using Your Library Card

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1. Does the library take interlibrary loan requests?

Yes. The library's interlibrary loan service allows borrowers to obtain nearly any item owned by a library in the United States. Interlibrary loan requests can be placed online, by phone at 515-278-5233, or at any of the library's service desks.

2. Does the library take purchase requests?

The library is glad to accept requests for additions to the collection. All requests are given serious consideration within the constraints of budget and selection policy. If the item you request is purchased, you will be notified when it is available for checkout. Purchase requests can be placed online, by phone at 515-278-5233, or at any of the library's service desks.

3. What is a hold request?

If the item you're looking for is checked out, you may place a hold request on the item by phone at 515-278-5233, online, or at any of the library's service desks. You will receive an email, phone call, or text message notifying you when the item is ready for pick-up.

4. Where do I return materials?

Materials can be returned 24 hours a day at the drop box located at the exterior of Johnston Public Library near the main entrance or at our Beaver Creek Elementary or Horizon Elementary drive-up book returns. Materials can be returned at the library's inside drop box during library hours.

5. How do I renew materials?

Most materials can be renewed twice if not requested by other borrowers. Renewals may be made at the circulation desk, by phone at 515-278-5233 during regular library hours, or online.

6. What is my password?

By default, passwords are the 2-digit month, 2-digit day, and 4-digit year (mmddyyyy) of the account holder's birthday. The default password for an account holder with a birthday of October 7, 1976, for example, would be 10071976.

Still having trouble logging in? Retrieve your password

7. What is my barcode number?

Your barcode number is the number located on the back of your library card. Barcode numbers begin with the string "BJOH".

8. How long can I keep library materials?

Item	CKO Period	Limit
Blu-Rays	7 days	20
Books	3 weeks	none
Books on CD	3 weeks	20
Cake pans	3 weeks	none
Comics / Graphic Novels	3 weeks	none
CDs	3 weeks	30
Downloadable Audio & eBooks	14 days	3
DVDs	7 days	20
Equipment, Kits, & Learning Tools	7 days	2
Magazines	3 weeks	none
Porta Books	3 weeks	20
Puppets	3 weeks	none
Video games	7 days	2

Most materials can be renewed twice if not requested by other borrowers.

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Library - Volunteering & Donating

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1. Does the library accept donations?

Yes. The library accepts donations of materials and dollar contributions. Donations of materials can be dropped off at the library's check-out desk. For more information about dollar contributions, becoming a member of the Johnston Public Library Foundation, or donating online, visit the Johnston Public Library Foundation page.

2. Does the library accept volunteers?

Usually. Please check out our volunteer page for more information about volunteering and contact us with questions.

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Library - Your Privacy

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1. Our library is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of our users. Why?

Because we believe that freedom of speech is meaningless without the freedom to read. Confidentiality and privacy are essential to these freedoms, because if library users have to worry about being judged, punished, ostracized, or put under surveillance, they may censor themselves. They may not seek answers to their questions or read the things they want to read, either in print or online. To be free and to govern themselves, people must be able to explore ideas, even controversial ideas, without fear.

2. If library users aren’t doing anything wrong, why should they care about privacy?

There are many reasons why library users might want their privacy and confidentiality protected. Perhaps they have been diagnosed with a disease and want to learn more about it before they tell their children. They may be suffering from domestic or child abuse and want to find out how to get help. They may be researching their rights before deciding to blow the whistle on illegal activity at work. Or perhaps they're planning a special vacation as a surprise gift for a loved one. Privacy isn't about protecting people who are doing bad things. It's about giving our users the power to decide for themselves who will know about their reading and research interests. If a user chooses to share her reading list with others, that's fine; but we can't assume everyone wants that.

3. But what if someone is doing something wrong, and the police need to see their library records to investigate a crime?

Librarians comply with law enforcement requests for information about users, as long as those requests come in the form of court orders. This ensures that a third party has considered whether the information is really critical for the investigation, and it helps prevent unnecessary invasions of privacy.

4. Questions?

Please contact us.

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Police Department

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1. How do I get my vehicle out of impound?

Registered owners or title holders of vehicles that have been impounded by the Johnston Police Department can make applications for the release of their vehicle at the Johnston Police Department Monday-Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (excluding holidays). Vehicle registration and title must be current and valid before release. Impounded vehicles will only be released to the vehicle's registered owner or title holder who will be required to provide a valid state-issued photo identification and pay a $20 CASH ONLY administrative processing fee in order to claim their vehicle. 

In some cases, additional requirements must be satisfied before a vehicle will be released from impound. For this reason, the Johnston Police Department recommends that vehicle owners contact the Johnston Police Department prior to making claim for their vehicle to ensure that they have all the necessary documentation required to complete their vehicle release request. Impound release information can be obtained Monday-Friday between 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (excluding holidays) by contacting the Johnston Police Department's records section at (515) 278-2345. 

Email inquiries can also be directed to police@cityofjohnston.com.

 Additional information regarding vehicle impounds can also be obtained on our website under the police department “services” tab.

2. How can I obtain a copy of a police report?

Copies of certain reports and information can be obtained through the police department’s records section. Some restrictions and fees may apply. For this reason, we recommend that you contact the Johnston Police Department in advance to determine what information is available to you and confirm if and when your request can be satisfied. The Johnston Police Department’s records section is available Monday-Friday between 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (excluding holidays) and can be reached at (515) 278-2345. 

Email requests or inquiries can also be directed to police@cityofjohnston.com.

3. How do I make a traffic complaint?

If you have a traffic concern that you wish to bring to the Police Department's attention you can contact the police department directly or you can complete a traffic complaint form. Upon receipt, the Johnston Police Department will implement an enforcement plan to investigate and address your complaint. Traffic Complaint forms and additional traffic complaint information can be obtained on our website under the police department's “services” tab. 

You can also contact the Johnston Police Department directly at (515) 278-2345.

4. Where do I go to pay a ticket?

Fine payments for parking and snow ordinance violations issued by the Johnston Police Department should be directed to the City of Johnston. Payment can be dropped off or mailed to the Johnston City Hall at 6221 Merle Hay Road, Johnston, IA 50131 Fine payments for traffic violations and other simple misdemeanor citations issued by the Johnston Police Department are not accepted at the Johnston City Hall or Police Department. Payment for these violations should be directed to the Polk County Clerk of Courts Office. 

Payments can be dropped off or mailed to the Polk County Clerk of Court at 500 Mulberry Street - Room #212, Des Moines, Iowa 50309. Payments may also be made online at www.iowacourts.gov.

If you have questions or would like further clarification regarding how or where to direct a fine payment you can contact the Johnston Police Department at (515) 278-2345 or the Polk County Clerk of Courts Office at (515) 286-3917.

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Sidewalk Repair Program

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1. 1. Who is responsible for maintaining sidewalks adjacent to a resident’s home or other property?

Iowa State Code and City Ordinance have established that the maintenance and repair of sidewalks is the responsibility of the adjoining property owner. This is detailed in the Iowa Code section 364.12(d) and the City of Johnston Code Book Chapter 136 Sidewalk regulations (136.05) and provides the City of Johnston the ability to require an owner to repair a sidewalk adjacent to their property.

2. 2. What opportunity does the city’s sidewalk program offer to residents?

By opting into the city’s sidewalk program, it offers the property owner a low-cost solution to repair/replace sidewalk panels that are out of compliance with city, state and federal guidelines. The more residents that join the program, the better price the city will receive from a contractor. This will save the property owner time and money by not having to locate and hire individual contractors for their replacement project.

3. 3. When will my sidewalks be inspected?

The city has been divided into eight segments and all sidewalks in each of the segments will be inspected in the same year. In addition, if a complaint is received on the condition of a sidewalk, an inspection will be made at the time the complaint is received.

4. 4. What options do I have to get my sidewalks repaired?

There are a few options for the property owner to repair the sidewalk. Property owners can perform the repair or replacement themselves. They can hire their own contractor to make the necessary repairs or replacement. The property owner can opt into the city’s sidewalk program and have the city’s contractor repair or replace the deficient sidewalk panels.

5. 5. How long will I have to complete the sidewalk repairs?

It would be appreciated if the repairs were completed as soon as possible to provide pedestrians with a safe passageway; however, deadlines are established and given in the notification letter. Typically, sidewalks marked as part of the inspection program are identified with a deadline for completion of repairs. Please note that the repair work must be completed within two weeks after removing the sidewalk.

6. 6. Is a permit required?

Yes, a construction permit is required; however, there are no permit fees.

7. 7. What will happen if I can’t find a contractor to do the repair work?

If the repairs are not completed by the deadline stated in your notification letter, the city will take charge of the repair work and invoice you for the repair costs. 

8. 8. How much will the city charge to repair my sidewalk?

The city will bid a new contract each year and the cost will be determined at that time. After the deadline, an inventory of which sidewalks have and have not been repaired will be made. A list will be compiled and a bid will be solicited from contractors to repair those sidewalks. Depending on the lowest responsible bid received, the city will charge the property owner for the costs of making sidewalk repairs on their property. The current anticipated cost per panel of sidewalk ranges from $400 to $600. Many factors will determine this cost, such as the size of the project, material and labor costs and contractor availability.

9. 9. If the city repairs my sidewalk, what method of repair is done?

The city will only remove and replace sidewalk squares if the city takes charge of the repair work. Therefore, if you desire to utilize a repair option other than removal and replacement, you will need to arrange for the work.

10. 10. If I have the city repair my sidewalk, will my property be assessed?

The city will first invoice the property owner for the costs incurred and will work with the property owner in making the payment. Only if the invoice is not paid within 30 days will the property be assessed and added to property taxes.

11. 11. Do I have to hire a contractor, or can I repair the sidewalk myself?

If you have the ability to complete the repairs to the city’s specifications, you may complete the repair work yourself.  

12. 12. Can the city recommend a contractor?

The city cannot recommend contractors as we are unable to favor any particular contractor. The city does not require that the contractors be licensed and therefore does not have an approved contractor list.

13. 13. What are the acceptable methods to repair my sidewalk?

There are different acceptable methods of repair depending on the repair type marked on the inspection sheet. The sidewalk inspection report details repair types. The recommended method of repair is removal and replacement for all types; however, other options are as follows:

• Types B, D, and F (see attachment) must be removed and replaced. The city recommends doweling the new squares into the adjacent squares to prevent the movement of the new squares.  
• Type A and C (see attachment) may be removed and replaced or mud-jacked, not to exceed 5%. Type A may also be corrected if it does not exceed ½” in height it can be beveled with a grinder to meet the city’s specifications
• Type E may be sealed with a rigid sealant after the removal of all vegetation/debris.

14. 14. Can I fix more squares than what is marked?

Absolutely. The city only marks the minimum number of squares to eliminate hazards. You may have additional squares in marginal condition that you may want to repair, or you may find it in your best interest to replace entire segments of the sidewalk rather than doing spot repairs.

15. 15. Will the city inspect the forms and grade?

The city does require the forms and grade to be inspected. However, an inspection can be made after the forms are set and before the concrete is poured. Inspection arrangements are to be made at least 24 hours in advance.

16. 16. Is there funding available to help pay for the repairs?

The city does not have funds allocated to offset the costs property owners will incur to repair their sidewalks.

17. 17. What do I do if the squares marked on my inspection form are actually adjacent to my neighbor’s property?

Call Johnston Public Works at 515-278-0822, so we may re-evaluate the location of the marked squares. If the square(s) is adjacent to your neighbor’s property, a letter will be sent to your neighbor.

18. 18. I sold the property; should I call the city?

Yes, if you recently sold the property, the records may not have been updated at the Polk County Recorder’s office yet. By notifying the city of the recent sale, we can notify the correct property owner.

19. 19. What if I disagree with the squares marked?

If you believe the squares marked adjacent to your property do not meet the criteria established on the inspection form, or it would be preferable to repair the adjoining square, please call Johnston Public Works at 515-278-0822. A second opinion of the need for repairs may be requested. The city will have a different inspector look at the sidewalk and evaluate it for meeting the criteria.

20. 20. I have seen other squares worse than mine; why weren’t they marked?

The city tries to be as fair and as consistent as possible when marking sidewalk squares for repair. If you believe we missed a sidewalk needing repair, or there is a sidewalk in another area of your neighborhood that also needs repair work, please call Johnston Public Works at 515-278-0822 with the addresses to initiate inspections of those sidewalks.

21. 21. Who is responsible for repairing my damaged irrigation system?

Any irrigation system (lines or heads) that are in the public right-of-way are susceptible to damage and are the responsibility of the homeowner to repair.

22. 22. Do I need to notify the city when the repairs have been made?

Notification is not necessary. The city will automatically re-inspect the sidewalks marked for repair after the deadline stated in your notification letter. 

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Stormwater Utility

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1. What are stormwater utility fees?

Like gas, electricity, water, and sewage - stormwater runoff can be managed as a utility and billed as a fee. The fee is based on the concept that every property in a watershed contributes runoff and should support the operation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of the stormwater drainage system in the watershed. The amount of support is based on the amount of runoff the property contributes to the stormwater drainage system.

2. What is stormwater?

Stormwater is the runoff that results from precipitation. As this water flows over construction sites, farm fields, lawns, driveways, parking lots, and streets, it picks up sediment, nutrients, bacteria, metals, pesticides, and other pollutants. Unlike sanitary sewers that go to a treatment plant, most stormwater is discharged directly to local water bodies.

Increasing amounts of impervious surfaces in urban areas, such as rooftops, driveways, parking lots, and streets, decreases the ability of the water to soak into the ground, thus increasing the amount of stormwater. More stormwater places more demands on the city’s stormwater infrastructure.

3. What is an impervious surface?

An impervious surface is a hard surface that does not allow rain to absorb into the ground. Impervious surfaces increase stormwater runoff. Examples of impervious surfaces considered for the utility are roofs, paving (including gravel driveways), sidewalks internal to the site (not along the streets), sheds, paved patios, and pool decks. Surfaces not considered impervious: planting beds/landscaping features, the surface area of pools and decks (unless the area under the deck is paved).

To better understand how impervious surfaces are mapped and calculated view the impervious calculation document.

4. Who pays the fees?

Owners of all developed land in the City of Johnston would pay the stormwater utility fee. This includes residential properties, commercial properties, industrial properties, churches, and other nonprofit and governmental organizations. Undeveloped land is not charged stormwater utility fees because it does not have impervious surfaces.

5. How are stormwater utility fees charged?

The most fair and equitable basis for calculating stormwater charges is based upon the amount of a property's impervious area, which can be measured and has a direct and accepted relationship to the estimated amount of water that leaves a property as stormwater runoff. A property's impervious area is the most significant factor affecting both stormwater quality and quantity because stormwater cannot be absorbed by these surfaces and must be managed through some sort of stormwater system.

A unit of impervious surface area on an average single-family, residential property, or "equivalent residential unit" (ERU), is the quantity used for assessing the new stormwater charges. The size of one ERU was determined by averaging the impervious surface areas existing on all single-family properties around the city. The value of one ERU in the City of Johnston is set at 4,000 square feet of impervious area. Thus, the stormwater utility fee system is based on the total impervious surface area divided by 4,000 square feet; properties with greater than 4,000 square feet (1 ERU) of impervious surface are charged for more than one ERU.

For example: A property with 8,000 square feet of the total impervious surface would be billed for 2 ERUs. In all cases there are caps on the maximum number of ERUs that can be billed to the property, the cap for single-family residential properties is 4 ERUs and the cap for commercial, industrial, nonprofit, and all other properties is 40 ERUs.

6. How much are stormwater management fees?

The ordinance established a fee of $4.55 per equivalent residential unit (ERU) per month beginning July 1, 2012. The stormwater management fees are billed by the Johnston Water Utility and are made payable monthly at the same time payment for city water, sanitary sewer, and garbage are made.

7. How do I know how many equivalent residential units (ERUs) I’ll be billed?

If you would like to see how the impervious surface was calculated on your specific property you may contact city staff at 515-278-2344 or by email and an aerial map will be provided for your property showing the impervious surfaces.

8. How was the equivalent residential unit (ERU) rate determined for Johnston?

To determine the appropriate level of revenue needed to fund the utility, the city first analyzed the unmet needs of the stormwater utility system and developed a list of critical projects through the work completed with the Watershed Assessment and Stormwater Management Plan in 2009 and since that time other critical projects have been identified through the Capital Improvement Program; as noted on the list above.

Additionally, a small portion of the stormwater utility revenue annually will be used for operations and maintenance of the stormwater management system, with the intent of doing preventative maintenance to reduce the number of future capital improvement program projects. Using the costs and schedules of these projects and expenses, the city worked with Northland Securities, the city’s financial advisor, to determine the minimum fee necessary to fund those projects over a long term basis.

9. How will stormwater utility fees be used?

The stormwater management fees pay for

• Operation and maintenance costs of the stormwater management benefits and services and may include but are not limited to the provision of adequate systems of collection, conveyance, detention, treatment, and release of stormwater


• Reduction of hazard to property and life resulting from stormwater runoff and flooding


• Improvement in general health and welfare through reduction of undesirable stormwater conditions and flooding


• Improvement to the water quality in the stormwater and surface water system and its receiving waters

A list of capital improvement projects currently planned over the next 10 years that would be funded through the stormwater utility are available.