Just moved to Kalona and wondering what to do first? You’re not alone. The first week in a new town can feel busy, but a simple plan helps you get settled fast. In this guide, you’ll find the key offices to contact, how to set up utilities, and where to turn for schools, healthcare, parks, and more. Let’s dive in.
Start with Kalona City Hall
City Hall is your first stop for most local services. You can set up water, sewer, and stormwater accounts, learn trash and recycling rules, and confirm the current hauler and pickup day. If you plan any changes to your home, ask City Hall about building permits, zoning, and inspection requirements.
City Hall is also your hub for local notices and election polling place information. Save time by calling ahead to confirm required documents and current office hours.
Safety and emergency contacts
In an emergency, always call 911. For routine questions, locate the non-emergency numbers for the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the Kalona volunteer fire department. Ask about animal control procedures and how to report non-urgent issues.
Store these contacts in your phone. Many hours and numbers can change, so confirm details through the city or county websites before you need them.
USPS and your Kalona address
Stop by the Kalona Post Office to confirm hours, set up a PO Box if needed, and submit a change-of-address request. If you’re moving from out of the area, submit mail forwarding to avoid delays.
Update your address with your employer, banks, insurance providers, subscriptions, and voter registration. This helps important mail find you without interruption.
Licenses, vehicles, and voting
The Iowa DOT handles driver’s licenses and sets documentation requirements. The Washington County Treasurer typically processes vehicle registration and property tax payments.
For voting, the Washington County Auditor manages voter registration, polling places, and absentee ballots. If you just moved, update your registration as soon as you establish residency.
County offices you’ll use
Many property and legal tasks happen at the county level. The Recorder handles deeds and property records. The Assessor explains property values and exemptions such as homestead. The Treasurer collects property taxes and manages vehicle registration. The Auditor oversees voter registration and election information. The Clerk of Courts can help with court-related filings.
If you recently purchased a home, confirm your deed was recorded. For tax questions, contact the Assessor and Treasurer together so you understand both valuation and billing.
Utilities and broadband in Kalona
Most municipal water and sewer services are billed by the City of Kalona. City Hall or the city website will also list current trash and recycling schedules and rules for bulky items.
For electricity, many Iowa homes are served by a regional utility such as Alliant Energy, while some rural properties use a rural electric cooperative. Natural gas service varies by address, and some rural homes use propane. Internet options can include fiber, cable, DSL, fixed wireless, or satellite, depending on your location.
When in doubt, ask the seller or your closing agent which companies currently serve the property. Confirm meter readings, transfer dates, and any deposits needed.
Utility setup tips
- Have your lease or closing papers, photo ID, and payment method ready.
- Request final meter reads from the seller and confirm your start date.
- Ask about auto-pay, e-billing, and outage text alerts.
- Keep a list of all account numbers and service contacts.
Schools, childcare, and libraries
The Mid-Prairie Community School District serves Kalona and nearby communities. Contact the district to confirm attendance boundaries, enrollment requirements, bus routes, and school start dates. You will typically need proof of residency, a birth certificate, and immunization records.
Childcare options include family child care homes, daycare centers, and preschools. Availability can be limited in smaller towns, so call early and ask about waitlists. The Iowa DHS licensing lookup is a helpful tool to review providers.
Visit the Kalona Public Library to get a free library card, access public computers, and learn about children’s and adult programs. The library can also point you to local events and community resources.
Healthcare, hospitals, and pharmacies
Kalona-area residents often use local clinics for primary care and visit nearby hospitals for specialized services. The county hospital in Washington and major medical centers in Iowa City, including the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, provide emergency and advanced care.
Identify your nearest emergency room, urgent care, and dental providers that accept your insurance. Transfer prescriptions to a convenient pharmacy and confirm hours and refill policies.
Parks, trails, and local culture
Check with the City of Kalona for parks, playgrounds, shelter reservations, and ballfield schedules. For hiking and nature, Washington County Conservation manages regional parks, boat ramps, and preserves.
Explore local history at Kalona Historical Village and watch for community events. Kalona is known for locally owned shops and crafts, and the Chamber of Commerce can help you find markets and business directories.
Permits, property taxes, and inspections
Before you renovate, contact City Hall about building permits and zoning. For properties with private septic or well systems, check with county environmental health about permits and inspections.
For taxes, the Washington County Assessor explains assessed values and exemptions, while the Treasurer collects payments. New homeowners should also verify the status of any required final inspections with the building department.
Pets and animal care in Washington County
Licensing, leash rules, and animal control are typically handled through the county or a contracted service. The Washington County Sheriff can explain stray pickup procedures and local requirements such as rabies vaccination.
Ask about microchip and tag return protocols so a lost pet gets back to you quickly. Keep your veterinarian’s information and emergency contact numbers handy.
Who to call first: Kalona mini-directory
- City Hall: Start water and sewer service, learn trash and recycling rules, and ask about permits.
- Washington County Sheriff (non-emergency): Report non-urgent issues and confirm animal control procedures.
- Kalona Post Office: Set up mail forwarding or a PO Box.
- Mid-Prairie Community School District: Register students, confirm attendance boundaries, and bus routes.
- Kalona Public Library: Get a library card, learn about computer access and local programs.
Tip: Office hours and contractors can change. Always confirm current details on the official city or county websites before you go.
First-week checklist for new Kalona residents
- Set up water, sewer, and trash service through City Hall.
- Confirm electricity, natural gas or propane, and internet providers.
- Submit USPS change of address and update key accounts.
- Register vehicles and review driver’s license requirements with the Iowa DOT and county treasurer.
- Register to vote with the Washington County Auditor.
- Enroll children in the Mid-Prairie Community School District and arrange transportation.
- Pick a primary care clinic and transfer prescriptions to a local pharmacy.
- Save non-emergency numbers for the sheriff and fire department.
- Explore local parks, the library, and community events to get connected.
Getting settled in a new town feels easier when you know who to call and what to do first. If you want a friendly local guide to help you navigate neighborhoods, timelines, and the fine print while you buy or sell, let’s talk. You can count on personalized, high-touch support backed by a trusted local brokerage.
Ready to make Kalona feel like home? Let’s connect to plan your next steps or request a free home valuation with Unknown Company.
FAQs
How do I start water and sewer service in Kalona?
- Contact City Hall to set up your municipal utility account and confirm any deposits or required documents.
Where do I find my trash and recycling pickup day in Kalona?
- City Hall or the city website lists the current hauler, pickup schedule, recycling rules, and bulky-item procedures.
Where do I register my child for school near Kalona?
- Reach out to the Mid-Prairie Community School District to complete registration and confirm attendance boundaries and bus routes.
How do I register my vehicle after moving to Washington County?
- The Washington County Treasurer handles vehicle registration, while the Iowa DOT sets documentation requirements for licensing.
Who do I call for animal control or a stray pet in Washington County?
- Contact the Washington County Sheriff’s non-emergency line to ask about animal control procedures and pet licensing rules.
Where should I go for emergency medical care near Kalona?
- Use 911 for emergencies. For hospital services, residents commonly visit the county hospital in Washington or major medical centers in Iowa City.
