Government & Politics

The city of Cedar Rapids will host Resident Appreciation Day at the downtown Farmers’ Market on Saturday, with a T-shirt giveaway while supplies last and other activities.

The administration announced the action as President Joe Biden considers broader student loan forgiveness for millions of Americans. As a candidate, Biden said he supports forgiving $10,000 in student loans for all borrowers. He later indicated that such action should come through Congress, but the White House has said he is considering whether to pursue it through executive action.

The “ambitious” $3.5 million direct assistance program funded by American Rescue Plan Act dollars had almost 2,600 Johnson County residents apply. Next steps include giving applicants time to fix errors and developing a timeline for $1,400 checks to be sent out to those who are selected.

Tony Currin and Elinor Levin, candidates for Iowa House District 89, face each other in the June 7 Democratic primary.

Three GOP candidates are on the primary ballot for the Iowa Senate in District 42, Linn and Johnson County. There is no incumbent senator in the district due to redistricting in 2021. The winner of the primary election on June 7 will run in November against Democrat Jessica Wiskus, the only Democrat who is running in the district.

Over the past 12 months, Iowa net tax revenue has increased $750.3 million or 7.6 percent. That comes despite low levels of economic activity that occurred during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tax collections were helped by a recent surge in consumer spending due in part to pent-up demand and federal stimulus payments.

Also, Liz Mathis and Abby Finkenauer add endorsements

The 10-year ReLeaf Cedar Rapids plan to replenish trees downed in the derecho was adopted three months ago. Here’s what’s happened since and how you can help sustain replanting efforts.