Tiffin Talk - The Official Podcast of the City of Tiffin, Iowa

Latest Episodes:

Tiffin Talk - Episode 08 - Assistant City Administrator Oct 13, 2026

Show notes

Tiffin Talk: Around Town — Meet Ashley Platz, Assistant City Administrator | Episode 8

Ever wonder what happens behind the scenes at City Hall? 🏛️ Meet Ashley Platz, Assistant City Administrator for the City of Tiffin, as Mayor Tim Kasparek and Mayor Pro Tem Tim Orris welcome the person who usually works behind the microphone producing Tiffin Talk!

In this special episode, Ashley shares her journey into local government, from her early days as Tiffin’s Deputy City Clerk to gaining experience in Iowa City and returning to help shape Tiffin’s future.

Hear about the many roles that keep a growing city moving, including grant funding, City projects, community events, improving communication with residents, and the importance of building a strong, welcoming team at City Hall.

Ashley also shares her vision for Tiffin over the next decade, what makes this community special, and what residents may not realize about the time and coordination behind the projects they see taking shape around town.

Plus, the conversation includes plenty of laughs, some behind-the-scenes stories, and a few entertaining detours with the Tims!

🎙️ In this episode, we discuss:

Ashley’s journey into municipal government and her return to Tiffin
What an Assistant City Administrator does behind the scenes
Grant funding and projects that benefit the community
Creating a welcoming culture at City Hall
How residents can report concerns and connect with City staff
The importance of teamwork, community events, and resident engagement
Ashley’s vision for Tiffin’s future over the next 10 years
A fun round of rapid-fire questions with the Tims

Thanks for tuning in to Tiffin Talk: Around Town — Projects, Progress & What’s Next, where we bring you the people, projects, and conversations shaping our community.

💬 Would you like to hear Ashley join the Tims on the podcast more often? Let us know!

🌐 Visit the City of Tiffin’s website for city services, project updates, community events, and more.

Chapters:

00:00 – Welcome to Tiffin Talk & Meet Ashley Platz

02:25 – Ashley’s Journey into Local Government

04:54 – What Ashley Loves About Municipal Government

07:18 – A Day in the Life of an Assistant City Administrator

09:45 – Building a Welcoming, People-First City Hall

11:56 – Balancing Professional Recommendations & City Council Decisions

14:05 – What Makes Tiffin’s Community Special?

17:58 – What Residents Don’t See Behind the Scenes

19:00 – The Report a Concern Portal: Connecting Residents with City Hall

22:20 – Building Team Morale & a Strong City Staff

25:14 – Welcoming New Employees & Creating a Team Culture

27:40 – Ashley’s Vision for Tiffin 10 Years from Now

29:45 – Planning for Growth & Tiffin’s Future

33:48 – If You Could Complete One City Project Tomorrow…

35:30 – Ashley’s Favorite Thing About Tiffin

36:00 – One Word to Describe Tiffin

36:30 – Rapid-Fire Questions & Final Thoughts

37:00 – Should Ashley Join the Tims More Often?

38:00 – Closing Remarks

Tiffin Talk: Around Town - October 2026 Oct 09, 2026

Show notes

Tiffin Talk: Around Town — Projects, Progress & What’s Next

What’s happening around Tiffin? Mayor Tim Kasparek and Mayor Pro Tem Tim Orris are back with a new format of Tiffin Talk designed to keep residents informed about the projects, infrastructure improvements, and community updates shaping our growing city.

In this episode, the Tims discuss the latest on North Park Road construction, progress on Tiffin’s new reverse osmosis water treatment plant, preparations for the new Recreation Center, and the early planning stages of a future fire station. They also explain plans for the Highway 6 pedestrian tunnel and trail connections, upcoming Highway 6 improvements, and traffic signal projects designed to improve safety and traffic flow.

Plus, get the details on upcoming community events, Recreation Center memberships, and ways to stay connected with the City of Tiffin.

In this episode, we cover:

North Park Road construction and project delays
Reverse osmosis water treatment plant progress
Recreation Center memberships, programming, and opening preparations
Planning for a new fire station
Highway 6 pedestrian tunnel and trail connections
Highway 6 widening and traffic signal improvements
Upcoming community events and ways to stay informed

Our goal is simple: keep residents informed about what’s happening, why projects matter, and what comes next for Tiffin.

Thanks for listening to Tiffin Talk: Around Town — Projects, Progress & What’s Next!

Episode Chapters

00:00 — Welcome to Tiffin Talk: Around Town
02:20 — North Park Road: Construction Updates & Delays
06:40 — Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant
10:00 — Tiffin Recreation Center: Memberships & Opening Plans
14:40 — Planning for a New Fire Station
18:15 — Highway 6 Pedestrian Tunnel & Trail Connections
21:50 — Highway 6 Improvements & Traffic Signal Projects
28:00 — Upcoming Community Events
29:00 — Stay Connected with the City of Tiffin
30:30 — Closing Remarks

Tiffin Talk - Episode 07 - Water/Wastewater Superintendent Aug 21, 2026

Show notes

Tiffin Talk – Episode 7: Behind the Scenes of Tiffin’s Water & Wastewater Systems

What really happens after you flush the toilet or turn on your faucet? 💧🚽

In this episode of Tiffin Talk, Mayor Tim Kasparek and Mayor Pro Tem Tim Orris sit down with Brett Mehmen, Tiffin’s Water & Wastewater Superintendent, who has spent more than 30 years helping keep Tiffin’s water and wastewater systems running.

Brett takes us behind the scenes to talk about everything from Tiffin’s wells, water treatment and water quality to the surprisingly complex biological process that happens at the wastewater treatment plant. He also shares how Tiffin’s rapid growth has impacted the system, what challenges come with planning for the future, and what residents can expect from the City’s new water treatment facility.

The conversation also covers the science behind water hardness, chlorides, nanofiltration, water softeners, the future expansion of the wastewater system, and why the new water treatment plant is such an important investment for Tiffin’s future.

And, of course, there are plenty of lighter moments—including the strangest things Brett has found in the wastewater system, the infamous “flushable” wipes, unusual calls from residents, and a few stories that prove working in water and wastewater is never quite as boring as it sounds!

Most importantly, Brett talks about what he finds most rewarding about his job: providing Tiffin residents with safe, clean drinking water and helping build a system that can serve the community for generations to come.

Tune in for a fascinating look at the people, science, technology and infrastructure working behind the scenes to keep Tiffin flowing.

Tiffin Talk - Episode 06: City Administrator Jul 28, 2026

Show notes

Hosts:

Tim Kasparek, Mayor – ⁠⁠⁠tkasparek@tiffin-iowa.org⁠⁠

Tim Orris, Council Member & Mayor Pro Tem – ⁠⁠⁠torris@tiffin-iowa.org⁠ ⁠⁠

Producer: Ashley Platz, Assistant City Administrator – ⁠⁠⁠aplatz@tiffin-iowa.org⁠

Guest: Doug Boldt, Tiffin City Administrator

Summary:

In this episode, city administrator Doug Boldt shares insights into the role of city administration, ongoing projects in Tiffin, and how community growth is managed responsibly. Discover how leadership, infrastructure, and development shape the future of Tiffin.

Keywords: City administration, Tiffin projects, community growth, infrastructure, leadership, urban development.

Key Topics:

Role of city administration in community growth
Major projects in Tiffin: North Park Road, Rec Center, Water Treatment Facility
Balancing growth with community character
Leadership and decision-making in city governance
Development incentives and attracting new businesses

Inside Tiffin's Growth: An Interview with City Administrator Doug Boldt
Managing Community Growth: Tiffin's Future Unveiled

"It starts with leadership at the mayor and council level."
"Growth is managed through organized, controlled processes."
"Good leadership keeps the city moving forward."

Titles

Inside Tiffin's Growth: An Interview with City Administrator Doug Boldt
Managing Community Growth: Tiffin's Future Unveiled

Sound Bites

"It starts with leadership at the mayor and council level."

"Growth is managed through organized, controlled processes."

"Good leadership keeps the city moving forward."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and overview of Tiffin's growth

01:52 Background of Doug Boldt and his career path

07:11 Understanding the role of city administration

20:00 Major current projects in Tiffin: North Park Road, Rec Center, Water Facility

40:02 Balancing growth with community character

45:14 The importance of leadership in city planning

47:04 Community involvement and how to stay informed

49:12 Closing remarks and future outlook

Tiffin Talk - Episode 05 (Guests: Party Planning Committee) Jun 01, 2026

Show notes

Episode 5: Meet the Party People!

Hosts:

Tim Kasparek, Mayor – ⁠⁠tkasparek@tiffin-iowa.org⁠

Tim Orris, Council Member & Mayor Pro Tem – ⁠⁠torris@tiffin-iowa.org⁠ ⁠

Producer: Ashley Platz, Assistant City Administrator – ⁠⁠aplatz@tiffin-iowa.org⁠ Guests:

Bri Wilkerson, Deputy City Clerk - bwilkerson@tiffin-iowa.org

Ashley Platz, Asst. City Administrator

This week on Tiffin Talk: The Official Podcast of the City of Tiffin, Iowa, Mayor Tim Kasparek and Mayor Pro Tem Tim Orris sit down with two of the City's biggest community champions—Deputy City Clerk Bri Wilkerson and Assistant City Administrator Ashley Platz, better known as members of Tiffin's unofficial event-planning crew, "The Party People."

From the origins of RecFest to the launch of the new Tiffin Summer Socials: Parties in the Park series, Bri and Ashley share how the City is creating opportunities for neighbors to connect, families to make memories, and residents to experience the community spirit that makes Tiffin special.

Learn about upcoming summer events, including live music, food trucks, ice cream socials, movie nights, bingo, and the expanded two-day RecFest celebration. You'll also hear why community events matter, how volunteers can get involved, and how the City is working to preserve Tiffin's small-town feel while continuing to grow.

Whether you're a longtime resident or new to town, this episode is packed with exciting ways to get involved, meet your neighbors, and make the most of summer in Tiffin.

Topics include:

The story behind "The Party People"
Tiffin Summer Socials: Parties in the Park
RecFest 2026 updates and new additions
Building community through local events
Volunteer opportunities
Summer fun, food, music, and more

Tune in and discover why summer nights in Tiffin are all about community, connection, and creating memories together.

Full Transcript for this episode can be found here: https://tiffin-iowa.org/city_government/tiffintalk_podcast.php

Tiffin Talk - Episode 04 - Brian Shay, Building Official May 04, 2026

Show notes

🎙️ Tiffin Talk – Episode 4: Building Smarter with the City’s Building Official

Ever wonder when you actually need a building permit—or what really happens during an inspection?

In Episode 4 of Tiffin Talk, we’re joined by Brian Shay, Tiffin’s Building Official, for an inside look at the Building Department and how it impacts everyday projects around town. From decks and basements to fences, sheds, and DIY renovations, Brian breaks down what homeowners need to know before starting a project.

This episode covers:

Which projects require permits (and which don’t)
Common DIY mistakes that can cause big problems later
Why inspections matter more than people realize
How zoning rules affect what you can build and where
Real‑world examples and memorable inspection stories

Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer, planning your first home project, or just curious about how Tiffin grows safely and smartly, this episode is packed with practical info straight from the source.

👉 Pro tip: When in doubt—call before you build.

🎧 Tune in and learn how to make your next project smoother, safer, and code‑compliant.

FULL TRANSCRIPT can be found at: https://tiffin-iowa.org/city_government/tiffintalk_podcast.php

Tiffin Talk - Episode 03 (Guests: Library Director) Mar 06, 2026

Show notes

Episode 3: Spotlight on Service, Stories &Community – Lions Club + Springmier Library

Hosts:
Tim Kasparek, Mayor – ⁠tkasparek@tiffin-iowa.org
Tim Orris, Council Member & Mayor Pro Tem – ⁠torris@tiffin-iowa.org⁠
Producer: Ashley Platz, Assistant City Administrator – ⁠aplatz@tiffin-iowa.org⁠

Guests: Liz Petersen Grier, Springmier Library Director - epetersen@tiffin-iowa.org Special Guest: Kevin Swanson, President Clear Creek Lions Club - contact@clearcreeklions.com

In Episode 3 of TiffinTalk, Mayor Tim Kasparek and Mayor Pro Tem Tim Orris shine a light on two pillars of what makes Tiffin such a vibrant, connected place to live: community service and lifelong learning.

First, we sit down with Kevin Swanson, President of the Clear Creek Lions Club. Kevin shares the Lions’ “We Serve” mission, how they support Tiffin through programs like Flags OverTiffin, and what membership looks like for anyone interested in getting more involved. Whether you’ve seen their work around town or are curious about joining a local service organization, this conversation offers a meaningful look at how the Lions bring fun, connection, and volunteer spirit to Tiffin.

Next, we welcome Liz Petersen Grier, Director of the Springmier Community Library. Liz joins us for a lively conversation about the library’s programs, hidden gems,recommended reads, and the role the library plays in supporting curiosity and community for residents of all ages. From quick-fire book questions to behind-the-scenes insights, this segment highlights why the library remains one of Tiffin’s most treasured resources.

We wrap up the episode with a few quick City of Tiffin updates, reminders on where to find information, and what’s coming next. Visit Tiffin-Iowa.org for all your City Information.

Stay connected:
📘 Springmier Community Library: https://www.tiffin.lib.ia.us/
📘 Facebook: www.facebook.com/springmiercommunitylibrary/ 🦁 Learn more about the Clear Creek Lions Club via their website www.LionsClubs.org or socialpages - Find them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579985217844

Want to become a Lions ClubMember? Email: contact@clearcreeklions.com

For more information.

🏛️ City updates: tiffin-iowa.org

If you enjoy hearing the stories and voices shaping Tiffin, be sure to subscribe, follow, and share.

See you next month for Episode 4!

Full Transcript for this episode can be found here: https://tiffin-iowa.org/city_government/tiffintalk_podcast.php

Tiffin Talk - Episode 02 (Guest: Grant Weber, Parks & Recreation Director) Feb 01, 2026

Show notes

Episode 2: Parks & Recreation Director

Hosts:

Tim Kasparek, Mayor – tkasparek@tiffin-iowa.org
Tim Orris, Council Member & Mayor Pro Tem – torris@tiffin-iowa.org

Producer: Ashley Platz, Assistant City Administrator – aplatz@tiffin-iowa.org

Special Guest: Grant Weber, Parks & Recreation Director – gweber@tiffin-iowa.org

Episode 2: Meet Grant Weber, Tiffin’s New Parks & Recreation Director

In this episode, we sit down with Grant Weber, who joined the City of Tiffin as the Parks & Recreation Director in January 2026. This conversation is all about getting to know Grant —his background, what drew him to Tiffin, and the experiences that shaped his passion for parks, recreation, and community engagement.

As one of the newest members of the City’s leadership team, Grant shares his first impressions of Tiffin, what excites him most about stepping into this role, and how he hopes to support the city’s growth through meaningful recreation opportunities. The episode offers a warm and personal introduction to the person behind the department, givingresidents and listeners a chance to connect with Grant as he begins his work in the community.

In this episode, Grant talks about:

Join us for a casual, conversation‑style episode as we welcome Grant to the team and learn more about the passion and perspective he brings to Tiffin.

Tiffin Recreation: Register for programshere: https://tiffiniowarecreation.com/home

Forevergreen Road Roundabout – Projectbid opening took place a few weeks ago and came in under the engineer’s estimate. North Liberty is leading thisproject. More information will be coming soon to the City Project Updates page.

Learn more: here.

For the Love of Reading- February 14 from 10:00am-noon

Springmier Community Library https://www.tiffin.lib.ia.us/

Celebrate Valentine’s Day and lifelong reading with a cozy, family-friendly evening at the library. Enjoy live music from Molly Shannon, hands-on crafts, and sweet treats from TinaRiggan, while giving back through a book drive benefiting the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. We’re collecting brand-new board books and graphic novels, the items they need most.

Guests can also enjoy Blind Date with a Book, curated reading bundles, and a coffee shop giveaway. Bring a book, bring a loved one, and share the love of reading. At Springmier Community Library Saturday, 2/14 10:00am-12:00pm

Full transcript will be available soon: Here

Tiffin Talk - Episode 01 (Guest: Brian Detert, Public Works Director) Jan 01, 2026

Show notes

Episode 1: Welcome to Tiffin Talk – The Official Podcast of the City of Tiffin, IowaJoin us for the very first episode of Tiffin Talk, where we bring you inside updates, community news, and conversations that matter to Tiffin residents.

Hosts:

Tim Kasparek, Mayor – tkasparek@tiffin-iowa.org

Tim Orris, Council Member & Mayor Pro Tem – torris@tiffin-iowa.org

Producer: Ashley Platz, Assistant City Administrator – aplatz@tiffin-iowa.org

Special Guest: Brian Detert, Director of Public Works (Celebrating 25 years with Tiffin PW!)

In this episode, we cover:✅

City Project Updates – Learn more: https://tiffin-iowa.org/city_government/city_projects.php -Tiffin Water Treatment Plant

Upgrade (Reverse Osmosis)-Tiffin Recreation Center progress-Economic

Development news✅ Special Census – Knocking & calling starting soon! Details here: https://tiffin-iowa.org/city_government/special_census.php✅

Community Reminders:

Report a Concern: Submit here: https://webgen1files1.revize.com/tiffinia/Document center/STANDARDS & PERMIT FORMS/Other Forms/Complaint-Comment-Issues Form.pdf

Annual Pet Renewals & Dog Park Registration: Info here- https://tiffin-iowa.org/residents/pets___animal_control.php✅ Council Updates:Welcome new Council Member Tony Johnson – Meet the Council https://tiffin-iowa.org/city_government/city_council.php

A heartfelt thank you to Oliver “Al” Havens for 11+ years of dedicated service to Tiffin!🎙 Coming Up Next: Meet our new Parks & Recreation Director starting January 7th!

Subscribe & Listen:

• Spotify

• Apple Podcasts

• YouTube…and more platforms soon!

Visit us online: www.tiffin-iowa.orgQuestions or feedback? Email us anytime!

Full transcription of Episode 01: https://webgen1files1.revize.com/tiffinia/Tiffin%20Talk%20-%20Episode%2001%20-%20Public%20Works%20Director-%20TRANSCRIPT.pdf?t=202601101905190&t=202601101905190

Tiffin Talk - Meet our Host - Mayor Tim Kasparek - Bonus Dec 31, 2025

Show notes

Hi everyone, I’m Tim Kasparek, Mayor of Tiffin. I’ve had the privilege of serving our community during an exciting time of growth and change. My role is all about making sure Tiffin continues to be a great place to live, work, and raise a family. From supporting new development to improving city services, I work closely with our council and staff to keep things moving forward. I’m passionate about building a strong, connected community, and I’m excited to share updates and answer your questions today. Thanks for tuning in!

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