Brooklyn was plotted on land first homesteaded by William Manatt. Mr. Manatt purchased
undeveloped land for the standard price of $1.25 per acre from the United States
government in March 1848, the same year Poweshiek County was organized. In 1849 his
brother James Manatt laid out 32 lots – the first step in developing a town, and
then called Greenville. Greenville was composed of five homes. In 1850 Brooklyn,
Iowa was founded.
Brooklyn was incorporated in spring of 1869.
City of Brooklyn operates with a 5-member City Council. The Mayor is a non-voting
member.
Each Councilmembers are involved with one or more of the following Standing
Committees for the City: Street & Alley; Lights; Finance; Parks; Waterworks; Fire
& Water; Sidewalk; Sewer; and Law Enforcement. The Public Works Departments Superintendent
oversees the operations of Water Utility, Sewer Utility, Streets, Parks, and Sidewalks.
The City Clerk is responsible for the City's records and City Treasurer has financial
and accounting responsibilities along with grant writing.
641-522-7066
Volunteers who are approved by the City of Brooklyn Council and Mayor serve terms
on the following boards: Library, Zoning Board of Adjustment, Brooklyn Historical
Preservation Commission and Michael J. Manatt Community Center.
The City maintains their own sewer and water systems, however, in July 1999 the City
connected to Poweshiek Water Association line due to growth and technology.
