From Senator Mark Lofgren

By Theresa Rose · Friday, January 13th, 2023 at 2:47 pm CDT

 

Dear Senate District 48,

– Week 1 – 

The 90th General Assembly Has Begun!

The 2023 session of the 90th General Assembly is underway. This week, we welcomed a total of fourteen new members to the Iowa Senate. Nine new Senate Republicans were sworn into office, officially beginning the start of the first supermajority in the Iowa Senate in decades. Along with the new members, the Senate also elected Senator Amy Sinclair as the Senate President, making her only the fourth female to serve as Senate President in Iowa history. The week also brought many speeches, swearing-in ceremonies, committee meetings, visitors and even a few subcommittee meetings to begin the work of learning about proposed legislation for the session. We have a lot of work ahead of us, but I have already begun to work on some important issues affecting Iowans all across the state. As bills get drafted, filed, and moved through the legislative process, please feel free to reach out with questions, comments and concerns. It is a pleasure to serve you in the Iowa Senate, and I appreciate hearing from each and every one of you.
Subcommittee Meetings for SF 15 and SF 16

I was excited to chair the first two subcommittee meetings in the Senate this session. Both were for bills that I sponsored.  SF 15 is a bill that will provide additional funding from the general fund for the Veterans Home Ownership Assistance Program. This bill would appropriate an additional $500,000 for this purpose for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2023. This would be in addition to the already appropriated $2 million that is allocated annually for this purpose.

SF 16 adds the violation, “steer a motor vehicle unreasonably close to or toward a person riding a bicycle…” to a section in the Code that matches the fine schedule for other motor vehicle violations. For a serious injury the fine becomes $500 and/or a suspended license for 90 days, and for a death the fine becomes $1000 and/or a suspended license for 180 days. Under current law the scheduled fine is $325. This bill adds bicyclists to the list of violations that have similar penalties for occurrences of serious injury or death related to both pedestrian and motorist accidents. By clicking on the above links to these bills you can follow their progress as they move through the legislative process this session. SF 15 is scheduled to be brought before the Veterans Affairs Committee next Tuesday, January 17th.

Redistricting Change
All legislative districts across the state have now been reapportioned based on the 2020 census data. The district I represent changed from District 46 to District 48 and also changes the counties that I serve. Although I work to serve all Iowans, the district I represent no longer includes Scott County. I now represent Iowans in most of Muscatine County, all of Louisa County, and parts of Des Moines and Henry Counties. Please click here to see the map of District 48. Over the past six months I have traveled to towns in the new part of the district for various events and meetings. It has been a privilege to meet many new constituents and to get a feel for the needs of these individuals, groups and communities. I look forward to meeting more of you in the future!

 

Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs Invests $1.5 Million in Building Creative Places

 

This week The Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs  announced it has awarded more than $1.5 million in grants to leverage local infrastructure projects and engaging programs that build culturally vibrant communities across the state.

The $1,573,997 in grants come from the department’s Iowa Great Places, Strengthening Communities, School Arts Experience, Artist Catalyst, Creative Places Project, Folk Arts Learning and Humanities Collaboration programs.

“Across Iowa, these projects are connecting Iowans to arts, culture and heritage programming and their local communities’ authentic character,” Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs Director Chris Kramer said. “They represent the quality of life people value today when choosing culturally vibrant places to live, work and raise their families.”
The grant funding aligns with the department’s strategic goals:

  • Cultivate and promote creative places, grow Iowa’s creative economy and workforce, and build the capacity of our cultural organizations.
  • Preserve and enhance access to Iowa arts, culture, film and history.
  • Provide dynamic lifelong learning opportunities while igniting creativity and innovation.

Congratulations to the following grant recipients from District 48!

Strengthening Communities Grants

Strengthening Communities grants support facility renovation and construction projects that promote youth development, healthy living and social responsibility in communities with fewer than 28,000 residents. The grants are made possible by an appropriation from the Iowa Legislature through the Rebuild Iowa Infrastructure Fund.

Burlington Area YMCA: This grant supports a building renovation providing an inclusive, safe and accessible, ADA-compliant environment in locker rooms for all current and future members. Grant Award: $93,048

Humanities Collaboration Grants

Humanities Collaboration Grants support humanities projects that encourage contemplation and spark conversation, while engaging the community through collaboration between Iowa humanities organizations, institutions of higher education and schools. Funding for the grants comes from the National Endowment for the Humanities, a federal agency.

Muscatine Art Center  curated and hosted an Exhibition on the Influence of Japanese Culture in the Midwest from the 1890s-1930s. The exhibition, entitled Captivated by Japan: Laura Musser McColm and her Era, ran from September 3rd through October 23rd, 2022. Grant award: $4,200

To see a complete listing of the Creative Places Project grants and their recipients as well as other grant opportunities offered through the Department of Cultural Affairs, follow the link below:

https://iowaculture.gov/about-us/about/grants

 

Best regards,

Mark

Senator Mark S. Lofgren
Iowa State Senator
District 46
563-272-8683
mark.lofgren@legis.iowa.gov

 

The Dickey Dispatch by Senator Adrian Dickey

By Theresa Rose · Friday, January 13th, 2023 at 2:27 pm CDT

 

Hello Senate District 44!

Well we are back at it! As of January 9, the 90th General Assembly has begun. With a new session and new faces, I am left with a great feeling about the potential of this session. With many new members joining us, I am happy to announce Republicans hold a supermajority of 34-16. We also elected Amy Sinclair as the Senate President. I believe she will do a spectacular job in this position and make Iowans proud. With this being said, I am looking forward to working with my fellow senators on both sides of the aisle to introduce and pass legislation that reflects the needs and wants of Iowans.

This week we were informed of the priorities of the governor, chief justice, and legislative leaders in Condition of the State speeches. While it was acknowledged that we have a large amount of work to do, a great number of accomplishments were also shared. From improving funding for education and public safety to reducing income taxes, we are on a great path. It is important to remember what accomplishments we made last year, but make no mistake, this session will be even better. With Governor Kim Reynolds swearing in for another term on January 13, we will work together to implement her vision for the State of Iowa that she presented in her Condition of the State address.

One quote that Governor Reynolds made was:

“It’s been nearly 40 years since we’ve undertaken a comprehensive review of government operations and structure. And frankly, it shows… I’ll be introducing a bill that will improve the services we deliver and streamline our operations by taking us from 37 cabinet agencies to 16”.

I loved hearing our GREAT governor making that issue a priority. I fully agree that our government is too big and the easiest way to be fiscally responsible with your tax dollars is shrinking the size of government AND reducing over-burdensome regulations on our businesses and citizens!

I am fortunate this year to be a part of five separate committees. Workforce (Chairman), Transportation (Vice Chairman), Ways & Means, Commerce, and Economic Development Appropriations Subcommittee (Vice Chairman). As the Chairman of the Workforce committee I am excited to tackle issues relating to labor shortages within the state. As a business owner, I understand the complications and hardship this is causing businesses across Iowa. I am deeply motivated to continue finding relief. Serving on the Senate Ways & Means committee, I understand how large of a priority property tax reform is this year. I can assure you we will be looking into the best way to bring relief to Iowa taxpayers, limit both the size and cost of local government, and show transparency in this complex process. In regard to the other committees, they are in full swing with legislation already being discussed amongst senators. On the second day of session I already had 30 bills to review. Needless to say, we are getting to work right away.

With five different committees and three condition of the state speeches given this week, it has been all-out craziness. Bills are starting to flow in and find their way to subcommittees to be discussed. Before long, debates will ensue and bills will be passed. Between meeting with constituents, attending committee meetings and researching legislation of my own, my days are at full throttle. Even with dozens of thoughts racing in my head, I still find myself with a sense of excitement every morning I walk into the Capitol. I am grateful for the opportunity the citizens of Senate District 44 have given to represent them, and am deeply motivated to make them proud!

I am always eager to meet and hear from you. If you would like to get in touch you can email me at Adrian.dickey@legis.iowa.gov.

Thank you for your support!

Harold Dovenspike

By Theresa Rose · Friday, January 13th, 2023 at 2:25 pm CDT

Harold Rex Dovenspike, 69, of New London, died Wednesday, January 11, 2023 at his home.  He was born July 13, 1953 in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa to Harold Orville and Marjorie Elaine Kirk Dovenspike.  He was a 1971 graduate of New London High School.  He served in the Air Force during the Vietnam war and in recent years enjoyed being on the military honor guard at Post 7641 in New London.  He served as Post Junior Vice Commander and handled the poppy sales for the last several years.  He worked at the Mental Health Institute in Mt. Pleasant and retired from dispatch at the WalMart Warehouse.

Rex was a homebody who enjoyed taking care of his property, but most important to him were his beloved pets, friends and neighbors.

According to his wishes, his body has been cremated and inurnment will be held at a later date.  Elliott Chapel, New London is assisting with the arrangements and online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com.

Street Closure

By Theresa Rose · Friday, January 13th, 2023 at 1:22 pm CDT

Monday January 16th – Friday January 20th. Mt. Pleasant Municipal Utilities will be doing some street repairs on the 100th block of S. Walnut from E. Monroe to Washington.

Two Vehicle Crash Details

By Theresa Rose · Friday, January 13th, 2023 at 8:38 am CDT

The Iowa State Patrol has released the final report on the two vehicle crash that occurred Wednesday afternoon at the intersection of 260th Street and Highway 34 west of New London. Dick Richards of Mount Pleasant was operating a vehicle and was at the cross over yield intersection on 34. He continued thru the intersection where his vehicle struck the driver’s side of a van driven by Ed Longanecker, also of Mount Pleasant. Longanecker was driving west on Hwy 34. Richards said he did not see the van.  The collision caused the van to spin and come to rest on the north shoulder of Hwy 34 in the west bound lanes.  No injuries were reported.  Richards was cited for failure to obey a yield sign.

$4 Million for the Rehabilitation of Housing in Burlington, Grinnell, Keokuk, Mason City and Washington

By Theresa Rose · Friday, January 13th, 2023 at 8:22 am CDT

DES MOINES – Governor Reynolds  announced a total of $4 million in grant awards to assist the communities of Burlington, Grinnell, Keokuk, Mason City and Washington in the rehabilitation of a total of 131 owner-occupied and rental homes through the Home Rehabilitation Block Grant Pilot Program.

“I’ve been steadfast in my commitment to advancing housing opportunities to ensure that every Iowan can live near their work,” said Gov. Reynolds.  “To meet that goal, we must not only build new housing but we also must preserve our existing housing stock. Today’s investments will give new life to more than 130 aging homes so that Iowa families can be proud to call them home for many years to come.”

“The City of Mason City anticipates preserving a total of nearly 50 owner-occupied and rental homes through this investment,” said Mason City Mayor Bill Schickel. “One of our top goals for 2023 is neighborhood flourishing and this award will give that goal a huge boost. I commend Gov. Reynolds for her transformational investment in housing that supports our efforts to make our communities the choice for Iowans to live, work and thrive.”

The pilot program had $4 million in eligible funds available and received applications totaling nearly $4.5 million. Applications were scored on a competitive basis and included criteria such as housing need, impact, community readiness, public/private partnerships and additional funds leveraged. The projects awarded funding are leveraging an additional $3.3 million in additional funding.

Grant Award Recipients:

Grant Recipient   Grant Award 
City of Burlington $1,000,000
City of Grinnell $1,000,000
City of Keokuk $600,000
City of Mason City $1,000,000
City of Washington $400,000
Total   $4,000,000 

Award details, including project descriptions are available here.

The Home Rehabilitation Block Grant Pilot Program was created as a part of Gov. Reynolds’ $100 million investment to increase the supply of housing options and protect and expand housing opportunities for Iowans to live in or near the communities where they work. The funds are made available through Federal American Rescue Act State and Local Fiscal Relief Funds

Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Lifts Order Cancelling Live Bird Exhibitions Due to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

By Theresa Rose · Friday, January 13th, 2023 at 7:01 am CDT

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship today announced that the November 10 order cancelling all live bird exhibitions at fairs and other gatherings of birds due to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been lifted. The order also prohibited live birds from being sold or transferred at livestock auction markets, swap meets, and exotic sales.

It has been 30 days since the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has confirmed a new infection of HPAI in domestic poultry in Iowa. The last confirmed case of HPAI in Iowa was announced on December 12.

“Commercial poultry producers and those with backyard birds should continue to be vigilant with their biosecurity because this destructive disease still poses a serious ongoing risk,” said Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. “We are continually monitoring highly pathogenic avian influenza case counts worldwide and we remain ready to quickly respond should spring migration bring us another enhanced level of threat.”

Commercial and backyard flock owners should prevent contact between their birds and wild birds. Sick birds or unusual deaths among birds should be immediately reported to state or federal officials. Biosecurity resources and best practices are available on the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship website. If producers suspect signs of HPAI in their flocks, they should contact their veterinarian immediately. Possible cases must also be reported to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship at (515) 281-5305.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recent HPAI detections in birds do not present a public health concern. It remains safe to eat poultry products. As a reminder, consumers should always utilize the proper handling and cooking of eggs and poultry products. An internal temperature of 165˚F kills bacteria and viruses.

About HPAI

HPAI is highly contagious viral disease affecting bird populations. HPAI can travel in wild birds without those birds appearing sick, but is often fatal to domestic bird populations, including chickens and turkeys. The virus can spread through droppings or the nasal discharge of an infected bird, which can contaminate dust and soil.

Signs of HPAI may include:

  • Sudden increase in bird deaths without any clinical signs
  • Lethargy and/or lack of energy and appetite
  • Decrease in egg production
  • Soft, thin-shelled and/or misshapen eggs
  • Swelling of the head, eyelids, comb, wattles, and hocks
  • Purple/blue discoloration of the wattles, comb, and legs
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Coughing, sneezing, and/or nasal discharge (runny nose)
  • Stumbling and/or falling down
  • Diarrhea

 

For additional information on HPAI, please visit the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s website.

Signup for Crop Insurance Discount Program for Cover Crops Extended to Jan. 27

By Theresa Rose · Friday, January 13th, 2023 at 6:58 am CDT

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today extended the deadline to apply for the Crop Insurance Discount Program for cover crops to Jan. 27. Farmers who planted fall cover crops in 2022 can apply to receive $5 per acre discount on their 2023 crop insurance premiums.

“Cover crops offer many agronomic benefits to farmers and landowners while also helping to improve water quality,” said Secretary Naig. “At a time when crop input costs continue to rise, this innovative program will save farmers money while also providing improved water quality for Iowans and those downstream.”

In its sixth year, the program has helped increase cover crop acreage across the state and has been replicated in other Midwest states. Iowa has approximately three million acres of cover crops, a conservation practice that improves soil structure, enhances permeability and holds phosphorus and nitrogen in place.

Farmers and landowners may signup online before Jan. 27 at apply.cleanwateriowa.org.

Program Details

The Crop Insurance Discount Program is jointly administered by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Risk Management Agency (RMA). Iowa’s program has served as a model and has been replicated by the USDA as well as Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana.

To qualify for the Crop Insurance Discount Program, the cover crop acres cannot be enrolled in other state or federal cost share programs. Farmers should visit the local USDA service center to learn about other cost share funding available to support the implementation of conservation practices. Some insurance policies, such as Whole-Farm Revenue Protection or those covered through written agreements, may be excluded. Participants must follow all existing farming practices required by their respective policy and work with their insurance agencies to maintain eligibility.