116 3rd St SE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401

Marissa Payne
Growing up, I loved to read stories featuring the fictional teen mystery-solver Nancy Drew. She taught me girls could be sleuths, too, so it makes sense that I decided to become a journalist. Being a reporter allows me to chase down interesting leads, ask questions, and learn something new every day. I cover the city of Cedar Rapids for The Gazette. My beat encompasses many facets of life in Iowa’s second-largest (but best) city – housing, economic development, public safety, infrastructure, and sometimes casinos as the city keeps dreaming of getting one. I love the people here and care deeply about sharing the facts residents need to stay informed about their community.
In my spare time, I coach young journalists to report on government and politics at The Daily Iowan, the University of Iowa’s independent student-run newspaper. That’s where I got my start in journalism and navigated being the first in my family to graduate from college. I’m also a board member for CR Pride, helping to increase visibility of the local LGBTQ community. When I’m off the clock, I can typically be found cuddling with my cat Scout, re-watching The West Wing, or grabbing a cup of coffee or hazy IPA from somewhere local. Stay informed with our Daily News newsletter.
Latest Articles by Marissa Payne
Local Government Feb. 14, 2023 5:40 pm109d ago
Foundation 2 has taken over management of Group Violence Intervention, the community gun violence reduction strategy, but Cedar Rapids officials say the effort continues to see success in keeping people alive and out of jail.
Local Government Feb. 10, 2023 6:29 pm113d ago
In light of a state error leaving local governments in the lurch and down millions in expected revenue as they set their budgets for the 2024 fiscal year, Linn County supervisors are exploring where to trim the budget.
Business News Feb. 10, 2023 5:00 am114d ago
Development of massive industrial projects and multifamily housing soared in 2022, while office space continues to see increased vacancy rates according to a new report from GLD Commercial.
Community Feb. 8, 2023 12:03 pm115d ago
The Cedar Rapids Public Library was honored with the Jerry Kline Community Impact Prize to recognize the library’s influence on the community. The prize is awarded to one library in North America each year.
Local Government Feb. 1, 2023 3:19 pm122d ago
Work on a 640-acre solar farm near Coggon may soon be underway after a Linn County District Court judge on Wednesday dismissed a lawsuit brought against the Board of Supervisors by a family who lives near the planned project.
Local Government Jan. 31, 2023 5:00 pm123d ago
In a bid to recruit and retain qualified workers to Linn County while grappling with record-high inflation, the county compensation board suggested bumping salaries 12 percent for the county sheriff and attorney, and 10 percent for others.
Local Government Jan. 27, 2023 5:00 am128d ago
Construction is underway of a Big Grove Brewery in the heart of Cedar Rapids, bringing the award-winning local beer to the city this fall. The city council also signs off on new commercial facility, larger Lil’ Drug expansion.
Local Government Jan. 26, 2023 5:00 am129d ago
A condemnation hearing Wednesday provided the first test that city officials and neighbors are looking to as the precedent for how future eminent domain proceedings may pan out for the city’s flood control system.
Local Government Jan. 25, 2023 2:33 pm129d ago
As Hawkeye Downs looks to refresh its property and find new ways to draw people to the racetrack amid financial woes, the Cedar Rapids City Council was split but advanced a rezoning to make way for a salvage yard on the property.
Business News Jan. 22, 2023 4:52 pm132d ago
Union workers voted to ratify a four-year contract with multinational ingredients maker Ingredion, ending a strike that has stretched on for nearly six months against the company’s Cedar Rapids facility.
Business News Jan. 20, 2023 4:06 pm134d ago
International Paper’s proposed expansion of its Cedar River Mill facility was awarded $1.2 million in state tax incentives Friday, supporting the development of a more sustainable structure that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 22 percent in the coming years.
Business News Jan. 19, 2023 3:53 pm135d ago
Union workers have tentatively struck a deal with Ingredion officials that may soon bring an end to its monthslong strike against the company’s Cedar Rapids facility, the union president said Thursday.
Community Jan. 18, 2023 6:15 am137d ago
Trees Forever is teaming up with five local nurseries to offer $100 or $250 tree vouchers for eligible Cedar Rapids residents. Here’s how you can qualify for a voucher.
Crime and Courts Jan. 17, 2023 4:19 pm137d ago
A Cedar Rapids man who rented properties in Cedar Rapids to distribute controlled substances was sentenced Jan. 12 to 20 years in federal prison.
Local Government Jan. 14, 2023 5:00 am141d ago
Ten years into the redevelopment of Westdale Mall in southwest Cedar Rapids, the developer says “we’re kind of in deal-making mode” to complete the site’s transformation into a mix of housing, hotels, retail, dining and office space.