(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission has approved an ordinance implementing the half-cent sales tax for street improvements approved by voters during the November 8th general election and agreed to move forward on a plan to repair the streets of Hiawatha.

That follows action taken at last week’s meeting.

The sales tax will take effect April 1st, 2017 and be in effect for 30 years.

Mayor Steffen Shamburg says one of the biggest issues during the town hall meeting on the sales tax proposal was the fate of the downtown brick streets.

In order to address the issue, the Commission agreed to set up a committee of 7 people, including one commissioner.

Shamburg says it’s important to get everyone involved—including those who are passionate about saving the brick streets and those who would like to see the streets paved.

Shamburg urged anyone interested in serving on the committee to contact city hall.