After debate, Cedar Rapids Council approves ‘Our CR’ magazine printing cost

CEDAR RAPIDS — A routine resolution to approve a contract to keep printing the City of Cedar Rapids’ "Our CR" magazine sparked debate among elected officials at Tuesday’s Cedar Rapids City Council meeting.

Council member David Maier removed the item from the consent agenda so it could be discussed. He advocated not renewing the contract as a cost-cutting measure.

At issue was a resolution approving a contract with American Solutions for Business to print the "magazine style newsletter" for the city's communication division, at an annual cost not to exceed $205,000. That's an increase from the original contract's cost of $175,000.

"Our CR" is mailed directly to every Cedar Rapids address that is connected to the city’s water system. It includes features on various city programs, recreation program schedules, and other pertinent information that residents and newcomers might find helpful.

Maier said city finances are not looking as strong as they were two years ago, and that “mostly, if not all” of that is due to policies enacted by the Iowa Legislature in Des Moines. When revenue is not growing, Maier said, it's time to make some spending cuts. He admitted the magazine publishes good information, but he suggested cuts have to start somewhere.

Maier’s suggestion prompted the mayor and five council members to staunchly defend the magazine and the cost. All indicated they felt the city budget is not in poor shape, despite a few conceding that hotel/motel tax revenue has been less than expected, largely due to the pandemic reducing travel and overnight stays in the city.

Council member Tyler Olson contended the city's budget is not in trouble and "has tens of millions in reserve." The magazine "is well worth $200,000 over the fiscal year," Olson said, adding many use it as a recruiting tool for the city so "it pays for itself."

Council member Scott Olson said the magazine is distributed to every home. "It's the most effective way to reach our citizens. We're spending less than $1 (per magazine) to tell people what's happening. Its quality of information is second to none.“

Council members Ann Poe, Dale Todd, and Ashley Vanorny said the city is in decent financial condition and the magazine is a valuable asset.

Mayor Tiffany O'Donnell said the magazine "is the last line of communication we have" with residents. She pegged the cost of the publication at only 60 cents per copy.

O’Donnell called for a vote on the contract, and it passed 8-1 with council member Maier sticking to his opinion and voting no.