Izabela Zaluska

Amel Ali will remain on Iowa City’s ad hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission as a restorative justice process begins to repair the harm caused by comments she made on a local podcast.

The 1.3-mile extension to the east is not only a “crucial link“ for Coralville and North Liberty, but it’s important for the Johnson County metro area. City leaders are working to secure funding opportunities for the $10 million project.

The Palms Theatres, IMAX and Family Entertainment Center by Fridley Theatres will be part of the Park Place development in Tiffin just off Interstate 380.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission voted last Thursday to suspend Amel Ali as chair. Ali remains on the commission and the Iowa City Council will discuss her potential removal at its next meeting. Another commissioner resigned for health and personal reasons.

The 20-year-old playground closed Monday. It will be replaced with a new playground that was designed with input from residents after more than 550 comments were submitted about the city’s initial design. The new playground is expected to be complete in six to eight weeks.

The portion of Fifth Street from 12th Avenue through the 20th Avenue intersection will be enhanced with new pavement, sidewalks and landscaping

After a lengthy discussion Thursday morning, the Iowa City Council voted 6-1 to table the decision until its Aug. 16 meeting. Council members want the TRC to move forward but differ on the best way to accomplish that.

The Iowa City Council will meet Thursday morning to discuss removing Amel Ali from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Iowa City Council members indicated they are in support of contributing funds to free up county dollars for half the 319 residents who were left out of a pandemic relief program. City staff were directed to pursue negotiations with the county to explore options.

Monument Hills project, featuring single-family homes and senior living development, easily passes Iowa City Council’s first vote. Iowa City Council members said they like how the development will feature a variety of housing.

Iowa City police were called to Elray’s Live and Dive in downtown Iowa City just after midnight on Sunday. Alex Bwayonga, 18, verbally threatened staff, pulled out a loaded gun and pointed it at bar staff, police said.

Solon is among the state’s 10 fastest growing cities. The city is excited about the growth, but it’s also taking steps to retain the small-town feel that attracts people there in the first place.

Measure replaced with pedestrian safety ordinance

Area businesses are prioritizing DEI practices but work so far has been broad. Inclusive ICR Chair Angelica Vannatta hopes the group’s first DEI Index will help businesses see which efforts to prioritize and improve.

The Iowa City Police Department received 236 calls for service related to fireworks complaints from June 1 to July 8, according to a city memo. During the same period last year, the department received 136 calls.