Local Government

Initiative aims to make the library experience positive and accommodating for patrons with sensory needs.

Tiffany O’Donnell, who handily won a runoff election Nov. 30, was formally sworn in to office Monday in a ceremony at City Hall.

According to the county, Supervisor Royceann Porter is the first African American to serve as chairperson of the board since the county was established in 1837.

Developers seeking commercial tenants, residential applications to open soon

Iowa City’s drinking water does not have detectable levels of two types of industrial chemicals believed to harm human health, according to November sampling by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Another type of ‘forever chemical’ was detected, but it’s not one the federal government has included in recent health advisory.

Linn County has allocated all its emergency rental assistance funding, though additional aid may come in the spring. Those seeking assistance must apply through the state’s program.

Cedar Rapids property owners have a reduced time frame to clear their sidewalks after a snow or ice event. Snow must be cleared within 24 hours, down from 48 hours under previous guidelines.

The Atkins City Council voted last week to censure a council member who opposed hiring a city administrator for $92,000, but another council member says those things are not related.

With Cedar Rapids’ ReLeaf effort and other communities replanting strategies, even more will be planted in 2022 and beyond.

Mayor-elect Meghann Foster said the city of Coralville is at a critical point -- and she ran for the seat to be part of shaping the city’s long-term vision. Foster discussed her priorities for her first term and what she’s proud of from her time on council.

Changes to the city’s nuisance abatement policy make it easier to crack down on absentee landlords for failing to show up for inspections or otherwise neglecting their properties.

Members of the community police review board decided to “not sustain” the complaint by a 3-2 vote but raised concerns over how law enforcement acted when the tear gas was deployed.