Linn County bridge-diving ban to face public hearing

Linn County supervisors want a bit more information before banning diving from bridges or giving sheriff's deputies the authority to cite people swimming in areas where swimming bans are posted.

Sheriff Brian Gardner requested the ban last week, citing what his deputies report is an increase in bridge diving, possibly fueled by would-be daredevils' online video postings. Supervisors agreed at this morning's work session to request Gardner attend a public hearing on the proposal.

"It has been a problem the last 10 years or so," Steven Ciha, who lives near the Paris Road bridge over the Wapsipinicon north of Central City, told supervisors.

Ciha said frequent gatherings at the bridge include beer parties and the resulting litter.

The public hearing on Gardner's proposal will be scheduled.