Government Notes: Linn County making agritourism ideas easier to pursue

The Linn County Board of Supervisors last week unanimously amended an ordinance to streamline ideas for agricultural tourism in the county, looking to spur destinations that blend the economic benefits of tourism with Iowa’s agricultural destinations.

The new ordinance streamlines the approval process for most agritourism operations, reducing off-site parking requirements and reducing or eliminating application requirements.

The Linn County Planning & Development Department worked on the changes with the county Food Systems Council and Linn County farmers who offer activities on their property.

Agricultural experiences include but are not limited to you-pick operations, corn mazes, tractor rides, food services and special events.

“The time and expertise shared by local farmers and agritourism business owners with (county) staff has greatly improved our product, and I would like to thank everyone who helped us in this process,” Linn County Planning and Development Director Charlie Nichols said in a statement.

All Cedar Rapids golf courses now closed

Ellis, Twin Pines and Mini Pines Miniature golf courses closed for the season at the end of play Sunday. Gardner Golf Course closed earlier this month.

The Ellis Pro Shop will remain open through Dec. 22 for holiday shopping. Holiday hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. The Pro Shop will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday Nov. 23-26. Call (319) 286-5589 or go to PlayCedarRapidsGolf.com for more information.

New Iowa City Council member sworn in Friday

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In an unprecedented turn of events, Mazahir Salih took the oath of office as an Iowa City Council at-large member sooner than anticipated.

The circumstance arose with the conclusion of city council member Andrew Dunn's tenure, who was appointed earlier this year to fill the seat vacated by Janice Weiner when she was elected to the state Senate. His appointment lasted through the next general election, which was Nov. 7.

Since Salih was the top vote-getter in the at-large election, she was sworn in to fill that gap and then will continue with her full term.

“I am humbled by the opportunity to serve our community,” said Salih, who was sworn in Friday. “My commitment to advocating for the diverse voices of Iowa City remains resolute, and I am honored to step into this role to represent our city.”

Cedar Rapids seeks ‘Snow Hero’ volunteers

Cedar Rapids is seeking 2023-24 volunteers for its Snow Buddies program, which pairs “Snow Heroes” with residents who need help clearing sidewalks of snow and ice in the winter.

The program supports residents who are not physically able to clear snow and lack other resources to remove snow, such as neighbors, friends, family or a hired service.

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and provide their own snow-removal equipment. They will not be allowed to solicit or accept money or gifts for their volunteer work.

Visit CityofCR.org/SnowBuddies for more information or to submit an interest form.

Cold and flu reminders from Cedar Rapids schools

As temperatures start to fall, the number of cold, flu and respiratory virus cases starts to rise. The flu season typically runs from October through April, with an uptick during the holidays.

Here are the Cedar Rapids Community School District’s student illness guidelines and a few reminders to help reduce the spread of illness in schools.

Students will be sent home from school if they have any of the following:

Students may return to school after an illness when:

During times of high community or school illness, the length of time a student must remain home after fever or symptoms of illness may change based on the recommendation from Linn County Public Health.

Here are some helpful reminders to help reduce the spread of illness:

Schools assist homeless kids

Each year, the Cedar Rapids Community School District assists more than 300 students who are experiencing homelessness or near homelessness, according to a news release from the district.

November is National Homeless Youth Awareness Month.

Homelessness is defined as a student who lacks a “fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence.” This includes students living in hotels, campgrounds, vehicles or shelters and those doubling up with family or friends after losing housing due to economic hardship.

These children are more likely to experience hunger and emotional and behavioral issues. They also have a lower high school graduation rate than other children.

Any student or family who is homeless or near homeless is encouraged to contact their school’s homeless liaison to assistance.

While the district cannot provide financial assistance, it does offer homeless students free transportation to and from school, free school meals and support services for their academic success.

The district also can identify services and resources available in the community that provide assistance.

Government Notes is published Mondays and contains updates from area governmental bodies. Gazette reporters Marissa Payne and Grace King contribute.