Local Government

The two projects will add a combined 48 units to western Cedar Rapids in previously flood-ravaged areas.

Johnson County is planning to place six vending machines containing free doses of naloxone — a medication that works to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose — and other harm prevention items at places across the county later this year.

The city of North Liberty is considering its options for demolishing and renovating its outdated, inadequate fire station — a project that’s estimated to cost $15-18 million.

In an effort to comply with state law, the Cedar Rapids City Council on Tuesday voted 7-2 to advance a staff proposal to eliminate the section of the city’s municipal code outlining the makeup and responsibilities of the citizen review board.

The commission unanimously approved the draft code at its Monday meeting. Now, it heads to the Board of Supervisors.

Longtime law enforcement officer and peer support advocate Jeremy Sprague is set to join the department on Aug. 21.

Also in this week’s Government Notes, the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance is seeking “community champions” to connect with potential residents as part of its Collaborative Growth Initiative.

Following the deadly July Fourth flash flooding in central Texas, The Gazette spoke with Johnson County Emergency Management Coordinator Dave Wilson about emergency communications and how people can prepare themselves for natural disasters.

Iowa outpaces all other states with the highest number of bridges classified as being in poor condition, but the Iowa Department of Transportation’s work over the past 15 years to decrease the number of poor-rated bridges has led to big improvements for state-owned bridges.

At-large Marion City Council member Randy Strnad announced this week that he will not seek reelection, after nearly a decade on the council.

The city of Marion is testing the waters on residents’ willingness to support a bond referendum this November to construct a new aquatics center.

Iowa City voters will elect three council members in November: two at-large seats and a representative of District B, which includes the east side of Iowa City.