Meetings Moved

BOONE, Iowa---The extended Labor Day Holiday Weekend has led to the rescheduling of both the Boone and Madrid City Council meetings. Both meetings have been rescheduled for Tuesday. Madrid City Council meets at 5:30 at the Madrid City Hall and the Boone City Council will be meeting at 7:00 Tuesday evening at the Boone City Hall.

Pilot Identified

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Sheriff Ron Fehr has released the name of the pilot who died as a result of a plane crash in Boone County Thursday morning. Fehr says 24-year old Adam J. Danhauer of Whitehouse, Ohio died as a result of the accident. Danhauer had taken off from the Boone Municipal Airport, towing an advertising banner for Farm Progress Show vendor. He was unable to gain altitude and crashed in a cornfield north of the Farm Progress Show site. The accident investigation is now in the hands of the National Transportation Safety Board.

Labor Day Weekend Events

UNDATED, Iowa---The Labor Day weekend features two long time family fun events, the Madrid Labor Day Celebration on the Dayton Labor Day Rodeo. Both have activities beginning Friday afternoon and evening. Excellent weather conditions over the weekend should help bring out families and friends. Both celebrations will feature Labor Day Parades, Monday at 10:00 AM.

Weather Dampens Farm Progress Show

BOONE, Iowa---The 2010 Farm Progress Show wrapped up Thursday, amid light showers as a cold front began pushing through central Iowa. The final day always sees reduced attendance and this year was no different. The bigger set back was Wednesday, following a 4-inch down power over night. Attendance was fairly good, but many had to deal with wet parking lots. Still officials felt good about what they were able to handle on the permanent site. The Farm Progress Show heads back to Decatur, Illinois in 2011.

Plane Crash

BOONE, Iowa---One person has reportedly been killed as a result of the crash of a small plane near the Farm Progress Show site in Boone County. The plane was towing a promotional banner when the crash occurred. Boone County authorities quickly notified the Federal Aviation Administration to conduct the investigation. Officials at the Boone Municipal Airport report that the pilot was not local, but had little additional information.

Latham Draws Concerned Crowd

BOONE, Iowa---Iowa Congressman Tom Latham held a public meeting for constituents Tuesday at the Boone City Hall. A crowd expressed concern and outrage at some of the things being done at the federal level. Latham says the town meetings have been similar, because people are concerned and afraid about what's happening. He says people don't like the changes that Congress has pushed through and the manner in which it was done. Latham faces a challenge from Democratic Candidate Bill Maske in the November General Election.

Real Estate Exchange

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on a resolution to enter into a Real Estate Exchange Agreement with the Union Pacific Railroad. The process began with the plans by the Union Pacific to make some improvements in the rail yard on the east side of Boone. Part of the work will require getting onto county right of way.

Farm Progress Show Traffic

BOONE, Iowa---There were no reports of any serious problems but for many, the traffic for the Farm Progress Show was certainly an issue. Many people traveling through Boone County Tuesday morning discovered it wasn't just a leisurely drive. Just getting through the traffic to the Farm Progress Show to some up to a half hour. Sheriff Ron Fehr and Boone Police Chief Bill Skare have been cautioning the motoring public to consider alternate routes during the run of the Farm Progress Show.

Sewer Rehab Progress

BOONE, Iowa---This week is one of the deadlines Boone City officials are looking at to consider the progress on this year's sanitary sewer rehabilitation work. H&W Construction is currently on Tama Street and will soon look to move on to 8th Street which will create a number of issues. All year, the City Council has been concerned about the progress, realizing the work is substantially behind schedule. City Administrator Luke Nelson says one of the important dates will be Wednesday, September 1st. He says the Council has insisted that all streets be paved before the end of the season.

Cipperley-Price Heads Humane Society

BOONE, Iowa---Linn Cipperley-Price has been named the new Executive Director of the Boone Area Humane Society. She began her duties a week ago. Cipperley-Price is a graduate of Iowa State University and is a registered Veterinary Technician. She has been the owner and operator of "Spoiled Rotten Pets" near Paton, Iowa. Cipperley-Price replaces Lori Bonnell who has been Acting Executive since the resignation of Rick Carlyle earlier this summer.

Farm Progress Show

BOONE, Iowa---Many details are being hastily completed for the 2010 Farm Progress Show, held east of Boone on the grounds of the Central Iowa Expo. Officials don't go into specifics on attendance numbers but expect visitors from more than 40-states and 50-countries over the three-day event. The 2010 show marks the second time the event has been held on it's Iowa permanent site. The other permanent location is Decatur, Illinois. Locally, Sheriff Ron Fehr and Boone Police Chief Bill Skare are encouraging commuters to consider alternative routes to avoid the high traffic areas.

"Y" Building to be Donated

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Hospital Board of Directors has approved moving ahead with the transfer of ownership of the building housing the Boone County Family "Y". Boone County Hospital acquired the building over 20-years ago. Five years ago, the Hospital began leasing the building the "Y" of Greater Des Moines to house it's Boone County operations. The Board has approved a stipulation that should the "Y" of Greater Des Moines consider selling the building, the Hospital will have a right of first refusal.

More Downtown Work

BOONE, Iowa---Boone City Administrator Luke Nelson said this week that more work was going to be done on the site of a downtown demolition project. Fire damaged buildings were removed, but sidewalks were damaged in the process. Nelson says Majors Construction was the successful bidder to fix the damage and has quickly moved in to take care of problem. He says the city still hopes to get the site looking better for Pufferbilly Days.

Motor Tour to Visit Boone

BOONE, Iowa---The Iowa Lincoln Highway Association 2010 Motor Tour kicked off on the eastern side of Iowa this year and will end Sunday on the west side of the state. This year, the group will overnight in Ames, Saturday night, but will pay a visit to Boone for the Lincoln Highway Transportation Show. A "Bring What You Drive" show is being held in Boone and is sponsored by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce, the Tall Corn Auto Club, the Iowa Lincoln Highway Association and the Boone County Historical Society.

Emergency Repairs

BOONE, Iowa---Boone Public Works Director John Rouse says heavy rains earlier this month caused quite a bit of damage below the street surface at 8th and Benton Streets in Boone. Rouse says he knew earlier there was a smaller problem that would be addressed with the on going sanitary sewer project, but heavy rains this month changed the situation. He says the storm sewer needs to be repaired right away, which will mean some travel limitations at the busy intersection. Rouse says the work should be completed and traffic returned to normal on Saturday.

Hospital Revenues

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Hospital Board of Trustees have learned that the new fiscal year started out in the black, but not quite as well as originally hoped. Financial performance in July was affected by lower patient revenue, due to lower numbers. Pretty much all numbers were under the budgeted amounts including both revenue and expenditures. Net income was over $63,000, but was below both the budgeted amount and the amount for July 2009.

Traffic Study

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone City Council's Public Safety and Transportation Committee may consider a traffic study to take a look at traffic patterns around all school buildings. The Committee was approached by the School District again this week to install additional stop signs at the intersection of 1st and Benton. The Committee has refused similar requests in the pasts, but this time agreed that there are other matters to consider. Since the School District has closed two buildings and moved classes to new locations, it was felt that a complete look at the traffic patterns might be helpful in addressing grid lock.

Visioning Meeting Held

BOONE, Iowa---A large group of Boone citizens gathered at the Boone City Hall Auditorium Monday to hold a visioning meeting for the City of Boone. The meeting was organized by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce and was facilitated by Linda Howard of the Iowa Great Places program. Howard says she was pleased with the work of those who showed up for the meeting, which sets up the next steps for the community, an action plan, implementation, focus groups and plan development. No second meeting is set at this time.

Bridge Vote

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors have decided to seek a vote of the public to determine the fate of the Wagon Bridge located west of Boone. The current structure over the Des Moines River is closed to vehicular traffic. During the March flood, a large tree hit the structure causing an estimated $800,000 in damage. The Supervisors are proposing a $6-million bond issue to remove the old bridge and build a new on to meet current specifications. The vote will be included in the November General Election.

Storm Damage Reassessment

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Emergency Management Coordinator Dave Morlan says the Federal Emergency Management Agency has agreed to return for a quick reassessment of storm related damage in Boone County. In the past couple of weeks, several additional properties have been added to the list. Morlan says the first time damages were assessed, there were not enough individual properties to be considered. He says inspectors will limit their investigation to property that was destroyed or received major damage.

Hit and Run Driver Apprehended

BOONE, Iowa---The driver of a pickup involved in a hit and run accident with a high school girl last Thursday as been arrested. Boone Police Chief Bill Skare says officers were able to track down the vehicle and Saturday afternoon, filed charges against 29-year old William Austin Carlin, Junior of Boone. Charges included failing to leave aid and information at the scene of the accident, failing to yield to a pedestrian, no valid Iowa Drivers License and no proof of insurance. Carlin was taken to the Boone County Jail. The case has been turned over to the Boone County Attorney.

Farm Progress Show

BOONE, Iowa---In another week, thousands of visitors will be headed to the Farm Progress Show east of Boone. Police Chief Bill Skare is asking residents, especially those that commute to Ames and Des Moines, to plan for their morning and afternoon trip. Skare says he's asking people to use South Story Street to US Highway 30 in the morning and in the late afternoon and early evening. He says doing so will help avoid some of the heavily traveled local roads.

Bond Vote

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors will take formal action to put the matter selling bonds to replace the Wagon Bridge west of Boone to a vote of county residents. The matter was first brought up by Supervisor Tom Foster during a public hearing held by the Supervisors to consider the closure of the bridge to vehicular traffic. The matter is in the agenda for the Supervisors to consider, Tuesday afternoon. The proposal would include removal of the old bridge, construction of a new bridge and related roadway. Early estimates for a new bridge were about $4-million which did not include removing the old bridge.

Driver Still Sought

BOONE, Iowa---Boone Police Chief Bill Skare says his department is still seeking the driver of a pickup involved in a hit and run accident by the Boone High School Thursday morning. Skare says the pickup was a black early to mid-90's Nissan, possibly with some damage to the front drivers side bumper. The driver was described as a white male, early 30's, short dark hair and a goatee. Sierra Owen sustained bumps and bruises and a possible knee injury from the accident.

Visioning Meeting

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce will be the host for a "Visioning Meeting" Monday at the Boone City Hall. Chamber Executive Director Richard Baker says he's been staying in touch with representatives of the Iowa Great Places program for two-years and he thinks the time is right to take the next step to obtaining Great Places recognition. Baker says to do that, community members will need to participate in the Monday session. He says it will begin at the City Hall Auditorium at 6:30 PM.

DMACC Enrollment

BOONE, Iowa---The numbers are not official by any means, but an enrollment increase is expected this fall for the Boone Campus of DMACC. Provost Tom Lee says a single digit increase is expected this fall. Lee says after several semesters of double digit increases, it's nice to have things slow a little. He noted that many classes are already filled and more are expected to be filled early next week. Classes begin August 26th.

Parade Entries

BOONE, Iowa---Those businesses and organizations that still want to get an entry into the 2010 Pufferbilly Days Parade have to get the entry into the Chamber office by Friday. The deadline was extended, because some weren't sure about the $10-entry fee imposed this year. Janet Schultz, Parade Chair, says the fee will be used to defray some of the costs school district face in transporting their bands to Boone for the parade. At least 7-bands have agreed to participate in the parade.

Boone PD Seeking Driver

BOONE, Iowa---Boone police Chief Bill Skare says the department is looking for the driver of an early to mid-90's model, black Nissan pickup. Skare says the vehicle was involved with an apparent hit and run accident at Boone High School Thursday morning. The driver was described as a white male, early 30's, muscular build, short dark hair and a goatee. Skare says the was in good condition, but may have some damage to the driver's side bumper. A Boone High School student was injured in the accident.

Injury Accidents

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Sheriff Ron Fehr says deputies were very busy Wednesday, with three accidents, resulting in various injuries. The first near Perry in southwest Boone County, sent 45-year old Kae Olerich of Jefferson to the Guthrie County Hospital. A single vehicle rollover near Woodward caused 16-year old Nathaniel Kent of Des Moines and his passenger, 15-year old Jeffrey Mitchell of Woodward, to get cited for illegal possession of alcohol. Finally, a motorcycle accident north of Boone sent 44-year old Mark Zinnel to the Boone County Hospital. Fehr says all accidents remain under investigation.

Ledges Damages

BOONE, Iowa---The Ledges State Park in Boone County has experienced three-flood events this year along with some major August rain events that caused substantial damage. Ledges Park Manager Andy Bartlett told KWBG that some of the damage through the Canyon Road is comparable to damage during the record flooding of 1993. The second flood event this summer was just shy of the crest in 2008, placing it in third place for flood waters. Bartlett provided KWBG with pictures of some of the damage. The Lower Ledges Road remains closed.

Nursing Home Project Continues

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone City Council has approved the proposed site plan for the second phase of the Evangelical Free Church Home building project. The first phase, a major addition to the home was recently completed and now the focus turns to the next phase, the older, two-story wing next to Division Street. Remodeling of the two-story wing was not considered cost effective so work will involve demolition and reconstruction of a single story wing.

Supervisors Pursue RISE Grant

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors spent time in Ames Wednesday, meeting with Iowa Department of Transportation officials in an effort to gain support for a RISE Grant application. RISE stands for Revitalize Iowa's Sound Economy. Grant dollars are being sought to use for road improvements in the industrial park on the east side of Boone. Most grants are directed to new projects or new construction.

Two Hospitalized following Accident

BOONE, Iowa---Two people were hospitalized following a two-vehicle accident west of Boone Monday. Sheriff Ron Fehr says a deputy investigated the accident at "L" Avenue and US Highway 30. 56-year old John Huffman of Woodward was traveling north on "L" Avenue and failed to a west bound vehicle on Highway 30 driven by 45-year old Kim Pluemer of Mineral Point, Wisconsin. Pluemer was flown from the scene to Mercy in Des Moines. Huffman was transported by Boone County Ambulance to the Boone County Hospital. A condition update was not available from authorities.

Storm Water

Boone, Iowa---Boone City Administrator Luke Nelson says he expects Boone to join many other communities pushing to eliminate sump pump discharges from the city's sanitary sewer system. Nelson told the City Council Monday that many cities are starting to vigorously pursue the problem. Many residents with sump pumps and footing drainage, discharge the water into the sanitary sewer system, causing massive flows at the sewer plant and even resulting in sewage backups into basements. Nelson told the Council that many of the actions they will be asked to consider will be controversial.

Peddler Ordinance

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone City Council has begun consideration on a new ordinance dealing with peddlers, solicitor and transient merchants. The Council approved the first consideration Monday. City Attorney Alan Schroeder explained to the Council that the ordinance is different that one adopted by the Council over 10-years ago. That ordinance was challenged by several residents and the Iowa Civil Liberties Union. The ordinance was repealed. Schroeder says the new ordinance requires registration for a nominal fee.

Body Found

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Sheriff Ron Fehr says a deputy recovered a body on the west side of the Wagon Bridge, west of Boone, Saturday afternoon. Fehr says the initial call reported a decapitated body. Detectives from the Sheriff's Department, Boone County Search and Rescue and the Boone County Medical Examiner were also at the scene. Early indication's are that the unidentified victim from Cook County Illinois took his own life. An autopsy will be completed this week. Fehr reported that the identity was being with held pending notification of next of kin.

Two Injured in Sunday Accident

BOONE, Iowa---A Sunday morning accident, reported over 4-hours after it occurred, did result in two-people receiving treatment at the Boone County Hospital. Sheriff Ron Fehr Monday said that a deputy began the investigation shortly before 9:00 Sunday morning, even though it reportedly occurred about 4:00 Sunday morning. A pickup, driven by 22-year old Travis Riddle of Ogden went out of control on a gravel road and struck a tree. Passengers Blain Snyder of Boone and Mason Nicklos of Ogden, both 20, were injured but not seriously. Damages were estimated at some $25,000.

One Injured in Saturday Accident

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Sheriff Ron Fehr says deputies reported a two-vehicle accident Saturday that sent 83-year old Lovey Mondt of Ogden to the Boone County Hospital. Fehr says the investigation indicates that Mondt attempted to cross US Highway 30 at "J" Avenue when her vehicle was struck by a west bound vehicle operated by 71-year old Darrell Halbert of Boone. Mondt was taken to the hospital by Boone County Ambulance. Fehr says damages estimates exceeded $17,000.

Pufferbilly Parade Fee

BOONE, Iowa---Entrants for the 2010 Pufferbilly Days Parade are being asked to pay a $10 entry fee that will be used to help cover some of the costs of high school bands. Janet Schultz, Parade Chair says the celebration has given the schools $50 and she says that doesn't cover much anymore. Over the past couple of years, the number of bands participating have declined because of the increased costs to school districts. So far, 7-bands are entered this year. The deadline to submit a parade entry has been extended to Friday, August 20th.

Road Closures

BOONE, Iowa---Storms this week have caused quite a bit of damage to Boone County roads. Officials have reported posting county roads for at least three-dozen locations. Some are still dealing with water, but many are damaged from water running out of fields and a crossing the roads. Boone County Secondary Roads personnel have been working at restoring roads to safe conditions. The list of roads that are posted can be found here.

Public Hearing on Agreement

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone Park Commission has scheduled another public hearing on a long term lease agreement with the Boone National Little League. The agreement is for the long term use of park property where the Little League facilities are located. The hearing will be held during next months Park Commission meeting. Last month, Little League representatives raised concerns about a number of issues, including the need for a new agreement. Park Commission members have been told that a public hearing is required for any lease exceeding three years.

Water Agreement Heads to Council

BOONE, Iowa---After several months of negotiations, a proposed agreement between the City of Boone and the Logansport Water District will head to the Boone City Council for approval. As the rural water district expanded over the past several years, plans were developed to make improvements in the Logansport distribution system it was discovered that there was no existing agreement for water service. Some of the most recent issues addressed were maximum volume of water per month, rates and hook-up fees.

Miliatry Appreciation Day

BOONE, Iowa---Military Appreciation Day will be held at Galen Wiley Field at the Boone Municipal Airport this Saturday. Assistant Adjutant General for the Iowa National Guard, Air, Brigadier General Gregory Schwab is scheduled to open the event during a 10:00 ceremony. Organizers say the event is aimed toward public appreciation of the military and especially to the families of local members of the National Guard deployed overseas. The day will include a fly-in of rare, antique aircraft and vintage aircraft from the World War II era. Parking and admission is free.

Boone County Storms

BOONE, Iowa---Heavy rains and strong winds created quite a few problems in Boone County Tuesday night. Winds caused quite a bit of tree damage considered by Public Works personnel to nearly equal the damage cleaned up from a major wind storm just three weeks ago. Heavy rain on saturated soils created flooding problems, closing several roads, including Interstate 35 and US Highway 30 at Ames. Excessive rain in northeast Boone County caused massive flooding in Ames, leading to numerous evacuations.

School Facilities

BOONE, Iowa---Boone School Superintendent Brad Manard says he's confident that the district's facilities will be ready for school next week. The Middle School Addition, which will house 5th graders is virtually complete, but missing student desks. However, he says more work will be needed at Franklin Elementary. Manard says the contractor is optimistic about having classrooms completed, but paving of a parking lot might not get done for a couple of weeks. Classes for 5th through 12th grades begins Thursday, August 19th.

Flood Insurance

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County and some of the cities in Boone County were represented at a meeting with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the engineering firm working on the Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map. The maps identify flood areas where residents and businesses would be required to carry flood insurance. Cities and the County will need to determine if they will participate in the federal flood insurance program. Decisions will need to be made in the next several weeks.

Steps Taken for Disaster Assistance

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Emergency Management Coordinator Dave Morlan says steps have been taken to include Boone County in disaster assistance programs. A Governor's Proclamation was first on Tuesday, allowing the county, cities and citizens to participate in state offered opportunities. Morlan says the Supervisors have also taken steps with their own local declaration which is the first step to gaining a Presidential Disaster Declaration which would allow the Federal Emergency Management Agency to offer financial assistance. Morlan says it's not certain that Boone County will receive a Presidential Declaration.

Scam Alert

BOONE, Iowa---This week, the final local send-off ceremony was held for the Iowa National Guard 2nd Brigade Combat Team. And, this week, authorities began getting complaints about a possible scam spreading across the state. Commander John Sloter of the Boone Police Department says the Boone Police Department had not received any complaints but did work with the Urbandale Police on a Fraud investigation. Sloter says solicitations are sought under the guise of assisting troops overseas. He says anyone being contacted should use caution and if assistance is needed, contact authorities.

Park Commission Rejects Grinding

BOONE, Iowa---By a three-to-two vote Monday, the Boone Park Commission has once again refused to accept an offer from a contractor to grind a concrete paving project. The project is the recreational trail adjacent to the Linwood Park Cemetery. The contractor, Concrete Technologies, Inc. offered to grind 100-feet of the trail as a sample of the work that would be done. The majority of the Park Commission is still insisting the unacceptable work be removed and poured again.

Thunderstorms

BOONE, Iowa---Thunderstorms Sunday night and Monday morning dumped anywhere from 3-5 inches of rain in the KWBG listening area. Besides extensive lightning, the storms also had winds of 50-to-60 miles per hour which did cause some large power outages. Several hundred people in Boone were without power early Monday, but by noon, there were no reports of any problems. Additional thunderstorms are possible into Tuesday. Boone has recorded over 6-inches of rain so far in August.

House Fire

BOONE, Iowa---Early morning thunderstorms are suspected of causing a house fire at 528 West 16th Street, Monday morning. The fire was reported about a quarter to five in the morning at the Larry Swank residence. Authorities did report that everyone was out of the house. The fire apparently started on the roof and then spread. Officials do suspect lightning as the cause. The Boone Fire Department, Boone Police, Boone County Sheriff's Department, Boone County Search and Rescue and Boone County Ambulance were all at the scene.

Facility Projects

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone School Board will be updated on the status of their two-major construction projects, the addition to the Middle School and the addition and remodeling at the Franklin Elementary building. Both were slated for completion by the beginning of school this month. The Middle School project has been easily on pace, by the work at Franklin has been a little tighter. Earlier, Dr. Brad Manard, Boone Superintendent, said that the Franklin project was adjusted to include additional remodeling of older class rooms, but is still expected to be completed.

House Fire

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone Fire Department was at the scene of a house fire, Friday afternoon. The early report had the fire located at 1212 Union Street. There has been not report about the cause or if anyone was home at the time of the fire. Details from the fire department are expected over the weekend.

Visioning Session

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce will be looking for a lot of participation for a visioning session with representatives of the Iowa Great Places program. The public meeting will be held at the Boone City Hall Auditorium on Monday, August 23rd. Richard Baker, Executive Director of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce says the more participation the better. He says if people can come together with some ideas for making improvements, the Chamber will try to work with Iowa Great Places.

Storm Sewer Repairs

BOONE, Iowa---Timing was one of the big issues in allowing the general contractor for the Boone sanitary sewer rehabilitation work to fix a storm sewer break that occurred a week ago. A heavy downpour on Friday July 30th caused a blowout on the Honey Creek storm sewer on Marshall Street. Engineer Wayne Schwartz told the City Council that H&W Construction took steps to deal with a rain event. The problem was the 1.5-inches of rain that fell in less than an hour. One week later, 72-inch culvert has arrived to replace the old storm sewer.

Justified Shooting

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Attorney Jim Robbins has determined that the use of force by law enforcement personnel in late May, which resulted in the death of Randall Kimsey of Ogden, was justified. Robbins in an press release Wednesday noted that after review of the DCI investigative report and from his own observations at the scene, he has concluded that law enforcement personnel were justified in firing their weapons. Kimsey was involved in a stand-off with law enforcement at a residence in Ogden on May 26th.

Bid Rejected

OGDEN, Iowa---The Ogden City Council this week voted to reject a bid received for the demolition of a couple of downtown buildings. Plans to demolish the adjoining structures has been underway for some time. However, at the recommendation of Mayor Kieth Berg, the Council rejected a demolition bid from Anderson Excavating for nearly $193,000. Work will begin on the specifications used to solicit bids and new bids will be sought, probably later this month.

Flood Insurance

BOONE, Iowa---Officials from Boone County, communities in Boone County as well as representatives from the state and federal government will hold an open meeting Wednesday, August 11th to talk about the Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map for Boone County. The meeting will be held at the Boone City Hall Auditorium and will begin at 9:00 AM. The public is encouraged to attend and learn the details of the Boone County Flood Insurance Study.

Storm Sewer Repairs

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone City Council this week, approved allowing their sanitary sewer rehabilitation contractor, to make repairs to the Honey Creek Storm Sewer. Last Friday, H&W Construction was work on a stretch of the sanitary sewer line that exposed an old brick paved section of Honey Creek. Heavy rain caused the the sanitary sewer line to blow out. Monday the Council approved the work on a 6-to-1 vote. Council member Fenner Stevenson opposed allowing H&W to do the work, instead arguing that another contractor should be hired.

Storm Sewer Project

OGDEN, Iowa---The Ogden City Council has accepted a low bid of $1.2-million from Priority Excavation, for the construction of a storm sewer that is expected to divert excessive rain fall away from the city's sanitary sewer system. Ogden is under a Department of Natural Resources mandate to reduce storm surcharges at the city sewer plant which has caused by pass situations. A special meeting will be held in two-weeks to try and complete the contracts. Work could actually begin on the project by the end of August.

Moratorium Approved

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors have approved and adopted a resolution putting a six-month moratorium on and land divisions or development projects in the Des Moines river corridor. The Supervisors expect an independent committee, headed by the County Zoning Commission, to complete work on necessary mapping needed to provide consistency with the use of conservation requirements for environmentally fragile land. Critics have said the last six-month moratorium lasted a year and a half.

Chickens in Boone

BOONE, Iowa---By City Code, Boone residents can have chickens in the city limits, but there are limits on how many. In a letter to be considered by the City Council Monday, Rick Daniels says he was told he could have six chickens per 11,000 square feet of property. Three months later he was told he needed a half acre for four chickens. Daniels is seeking a variance from the City Council to keep his chickens.

Moratorium

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors are expected to approve and adopt a formal moratorium on any land division or development with the Des Moines River corridor in Boone County. The moratorium would be for six-months and would allow a committee that includes the Boone County Zoning Commission, to complete work on zoning map for a conservation district overlay. The County Zoning Ordinance already has the language, but the map was never adopted. The intent is to use a conservation district overlay on environmentally fragile land in the river corridor.

Police Chief Evaluation

MADRID, Iowa---The Madrid City Council is slated to enter a closed session during their Monday meeting to conduct an evaluation of Police Chief Rick Tasler. Tasler has been on the job for some time in Madrid and has been the center of some controversy. The most notable was an issue about his participation in a Internet video promoting an upcoming Mixed Martial Arts fight. At that time, Tasler did accept some disciplinary action.

Heavy Rain

BOONE, Iowa---Heavy rain Friday morning caused a few problems in Boone. There was quite a bit of street flooding and as usual the underpass flooded and caused a car to stall out blocking traffic. Because of the volume of water, there was a report that water began coming out of city's Honey Creek Storm Sewer which is in the same location as the sanitary sewer work on Marshall Street. It's not known if the storm sewer was damaged or if the problem will need to be repaired. Boone received about an inch and three-quarters in just over an hour.

Ogden Demolition

OGDEN, Iowa---It's been going on for quite a while, but next Tuesday, the Ogden City Council will consider bids for the demolition of two-downtown properties. The Johnson and Rattray Buildings have been considered a problem for some time. The Council recently agreed to acquire the Johnson Building and then immediately called for bids for demolition. Officials say asbestos issues have been handled. The demolition will open a spot in downtown Ogden and efforts are underway to secure a project for the site.

Back to School Supply Drive

BOONE, Iowa---Organizers for the 3rd Annual Back to School Supply Drive in Boone County are in the final days to collect items and to take donations for this year's county wide event. The first year, 99 youth were served. Last year the number jumped to 177. Projections for this year are as high as 250 children. All the agencies making up the Boone County Human Service Council are working with Boone County Empowerment and the Family Empowerment Center to make this year a success. Supplies will be distributed August 5th from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at DMACC in Boone.

National Guard Sendoff

BOONE, Iowa---Boone will be one of a half dozen locations with a local sendoff ceremony for members of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division. A couple of sendoff have been held, but the bulk begins Friday. In Boone, the Headquarters and Headquarters Company with more than 100-members will have a formal sendoff at Des Moines Area Community College. The public is encouraged to attend and is expected to fill the gymnasium at DMACC. More than 20-additional sendoffs will be held in the next week and a half.

Fun Days

OGDEN, Iowa---The Ogden community celebration "Fun Days" promises to once again offer something for the whole family. Several kid activities are slated for the Ogden City Park and the Kiddie Parade will be held Friday evening. This year, the Ogden Middle School will be the location for a train show and there will be music in the park both Friday and Saturday evenings. More information on Ogden Fun Days, Salutes Our Local Heroes can be found here.

Parking and Traffic

BOONE, Iowa---Parking and traffic issues around the Franklin Elementary School were the topic of discussion by school officials and the Boone City Council's Public Safety and Transportation Committee. With the completion of remodeling and renovation work and school beginning in 3-weeks, officials are looking to find ways to avoid grid lock. Principal Dan Gould has been working with neighbors and city staff to develop ideas to keep traffic moving smoothly around the school. The Boone City Council will receive a Committee recommendation Monday.

Sewer Progress

BOONE, Iowa---Boone City Administrator Luke Nelson says City Staff and the City Council are closely monitoring progress on the sanitary sewer rehabilitation project. Nelson says the work on 6th Street and now on Marshall Street actually puts the work on the first part of the third phase at 40-percent complete. Unfortunately the project was expected to be at least 70-percent complete at this time. Nelson says some tough decisions about shutting down the work will need to be made over the next 8 to 10 weeks.

Guard Sendoff

BOONE, Iowa---Boone will be one of six-sites with formal National Guard sendoff ceremonies Friday. The sendoff for the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Brigade Combat Team will be held in the Gymnasium on the Boone Campus of Des Moines Area Community College at 10:00 Friday morning. Others ceremonies will be held in Algona, Eagle Grove, Mt. Pleasant, Keokuk and Storm Lake. Nearly 20 additional sendoff ceremonies will be held in August.

Ride Iowa Rally

BOONE, Iowa---The 4th Annual Ride Iowa Motorcycle Rally for the March of Dimes will be held in Boone this weekend. Organizers will located at the Boone County Fair Grounds. Riders are expected to gather Saturday morning for a 70-mile ride into Hamilton and Webster Counties before returning to the Fair Grounds. Vendors, a Miss Ride Iowa Contest and a car show will also be held.

School Starts in August

OGDEN, Iowa---The Ogden School District is just about ready to begin school. That's good news since it's just over three weeks away. Superintendent Bill Roederer says registration will take place on August 5th, with classes for 5-thru-12 beginning on the 19th. One project that's pushing it a little will be the installation of new bleachers in the high school gymnasium. Roederer says the work is set to begin on August 9th and that will cut it a little close.

Moratorium Gets 2nd Approval

BOONE, Iowa---A moratorium on land division and development in the Des Moines River Valley in Boone County has been approved for a second time. The Boone County Supervisors want the moratorium to allow a committee finalizing mapping for a conservation district overlay program completes it's work. A conservation district overlay is used on environmentally fragile land along the Des Moines River. Supervisor Mike O'Brien has said he wants to see consistency in the use of a conservation district overlay.

Building Demolition

BOONE, Iowa---The demolition of three downtown buildings in Boone has passed the half way point. Now three weeks into the project, it's expected to take another 3-weeks to complete everything. Boone County Landfill Administrator Scott Smith says the debris from the fire damaged buildings at 803 and 805 Story Street was treated as being contaminated by asbestos. He says 418-tons of debris were accepted at the landfill. This week, Anderson Excavating began bringing in the material that could not be salvaged from the Meyers building

Downtown Streetscape

BOONE, Iowa---The downtown view changed dramatically over the weekend as the former Meyers Building was demolished. The building was the third of three properties targeted for demolition following a fatal fire in February 2009. Several hundred people took time to stop and take photos of the work that was taking place. KWBG has also featured photos and some video of the work taking place. Several pieces of the old structure are going to be saved and used for a planned informational kiosk in McHose Park, explaining the reason for a statue of Teddy Roosevelt.

Storm Damage

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Emergency Management Coordinator Dave Morlan says state and federal agencies are interested in weather related damage and expenses of Boone County residents and businesses. Morlan says he is compiling a list of those businesses, home owners, profit and non-profit groups that sustained damage or additional expenses from weather that occurred since June 1st. Morlan says he'll collect information at his office so he'll have a list of places to visit. Morlan can be contacted by phone at 433-0592 or by email at davem@boonecounty.iowa.gov.

High Speed Chase

BOONE, Iowa---Once again, a high speed chase by Story County deputies ended up in Boone County and Sheriff Ron Fehr says once again, the use of stop sticks brought the chase to a halt. Sunday morning, Story County deputies were pursuing a vehicle headed into Boone County. Stop sticks were deployed at the county line on 320th Street, east of Madrid. Fehr says the vehicle hit the stop sticks and tires were completely flat in a couple of mile. 34-year old Todd K. Harvey of Des Moines was turned over to Story County deputies.

CMS Appeal

BOONE, Iowa---The initial appeal of a decision by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to close the third floor of the Boone County Hospital for use in extended care, has been successful. In a rare occurrence, an administrative law judge sided with the Boone County Hospital when asked to issue a summary judgement by CMS. Joe Smith, Chief Executive Officer of the Boone County Hospital reported to the Hospital Board this week that the appeal will continue. A next hearing has not yet been set.

Tree Limb Pickup

BOONE, Iowa---Boone Public Works will begin picking up those tree branches and tree limbs that fell during last Sunday's early morning thunderstorm. Wind gusts were recorded in excess of 70-miles per hour and according to Public Works and Parks Director John Rouse, causes extensive damage community wide. The past week, Parks and Public Works worked at dealing with damaged and dangerous trees. During the past week, residents were encouraged to move their downed branches and limbs to the parking in front of their homes. Pickup will begin Monday morning at 7:00 on the north side of the city.

Wrage gets Recognition

BOONE, Iowa---Rich Wrage, Regional Extension Education Director and former Boone County Education Director was recently honored with the Distinguished Service Award from the National Association of Agricultural Agents. Wrage was named the Boone County Extension Education Director in 1994 and was named the Region 8 Regional Extension Education Director during the recent reorganization of extension in Iowa.

Enrollment up at DMACC

BOONE, Iowa---Enrollment at the Boone Campus of Des Moines Area Community College is on pace to break last year's record. Provost Tom Lee says both head county and credit hour enrollment are ahead of the same date and year ago, and he expects the trend to continue. Fall semester begins on August 26th and Lee says the enrollment census is at some 70% of what's expected.

Hospital Finances

BOONE, Iowa---The unaudited numbers from the most recent fiscal year remained positive for the Boone County Hospital. The year ended with an estimated $660,000 in the black. The amount is under the estimated budgeted amount by some $350,000. However, the amount is ahead of the level from 2009 by some $20,000.

Farm Progress Show

BOONE, Iowa---The 2010 Farm Progress Show is just over 5-weeks away and site preparation is moving ahead east of Boone. The Central Iowa Expo site has seen new tents and other site preparation this week. Even with the rains and the strong wind storm last Sunday, everything has been moving ahead. The 2010 show will be head August 31, September 1st and September 2nd. Hundreds of thousands are expected to attend.

Assessor Conference Board

BOONE, Iowa---The debate about publishing the salaries and expenses from the Boone County Assessors Office has apparently been resolved. The Conference Board was asked to determine if the Supervisors should be permitted to print the information in their minutes. The Conference Board noted that the Supervisors are not permitted to publish the information by state law. However, Assessor D. Kevin Burggraaf does post the information with other office information on the Boone County website.

Unemployment Numbers

BOONE, Iowa---Iowa's unemployment rate in June was steady at 6.8 percent. The rate is up from 6 percent a year ago. Locally, the Boone County rate went from 6 to 6.2 percent from May to June. Story County increased 1 percentage point. The Combined Statistical Area which is Boone and Story Counties together was 5.9 percent, up from 5.1 percent in May.

Municipal Band

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone Municipal Band will wrap up it's regular concert season Wednesday at the Herman Park Pavilion. The Municipal Band, under the direction of Dave Richardson performs Wednesday evenings beginning the last Wednesday in May. During the season, the band also hosts the Iowa Municipal Band Festival and performs a special 4th of July Concert. This has been the 94th season for the Municipal Band in Boone.

Business dissatisfied

BOONE, Iowa---Boone businessman Steve Kruck appeared at this week's City Council meeting to express his disappointment in the delays on the sanitary sewer rehabilitation project. Kruck, whose business locations on 6th Street, has had business directly affected for several weeks. He told the Council that initially it was only supposed to be a couple of weeks and that's what he's still being told. Kruck says a contractor himself, he's disappointed that stronger steps aren't being taken to press the general contractor to work faster.

Moratorium

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors have instituted a moratorium on any land division of development in the Des Moines River corridor. It is expected that the six-month moratorium will allow the County Plan and Zoning Commission to complete work on a set of guidelines to be used in applying what's called a "Conservation District Overlay". The overlay is intended to protect environmentally fragile land in the river valley.

Tree Trimming

BOONE, Iowa---Boone Public Works and Parks Director John Rouse says residents need to be on the look out for unauthorized tree trimming businesses. Rouse says after the storm Sunday morning, it didn't take long for questionable operators to begin to show up. He says commercial tree trimming businesses need to have a permit in Boone and also carry insurance. Recently the City Council amended the tree trimming ordinance to require commercial operators to meet certain standards.

Hicks Win is Official

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Supervisors used a special meeting Monday morning to formally canvass last Tuesday Boone City special election. County Auditor and Commissioner of Elections, Phil Meier says there were no irregularities and there was no vote change. Kevin Hicks received 51-votes in the special election, followed by Travis Stevenson with 46 and Steve McCoy with 20. Hicks will replace Glen Thompson on the City Council and will represent the city's 4th Ward.

Development Moratorium

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors have been asked to institute a moratorium on any land division or development in the Des Moines River Valley. The Supervisors will hold a public hearing during their regular meeting Tuesday to gather comments. In the past couple of months, the County Plan and Zoning Commission has been working on developing a consistent plan to use a Conservation District Overlay on environmentally fragile land.

Back to School Supplies

BOONE, Iowa---The 3rd Annual Back to School Supply Drive is underway in Boone County. Local human service agencies have teamed together to collect necessary school supplies which will be distributed to students in early August. Janelle Durlin with Mid-Iowa Community Action says right now the campaign is collecting supplies or monetary donations. In August, Boone County residents will be able to get supplies by visiting the Boone Campus of Des Moines Area Community College. Last year, 177-youth were served. It's expected the need will increase this year.

Election Canvass

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors will hold a special meeting Monday morning to formally canvass last Tuesday's Boone City special election results. The election was to fill a vacancy on the City Council. The apparent winner was Kevin Hicks with 51-votes. Travis Stevenson at 46-votes and Steve McCoy at 20-votes. By canvassing the results Monday morning, the winner can be sworn in during the City Council meeting Monday evening.

Peddler Ordinance

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone City Council has been asked to consider an ordinance dealing with Peddlers, Solicitors and Transient Merchants. The City Council's Policy, Administration and Employee Relations Committee will begin discussion on the matter Monday. Several years ago, an ordinance was adopted dealing with Peddlers, but was challenged by a number of residents and the Iowa Civil Liberties Union. That ordinance was repelled.

High Speed Chase

BOONE, Iowa---Boone Police and Boone County Sheriff's Deputies assist the Ames Police Department Friday morning and helped to bring a high speed chase to an end on the south side of Boone. Ames Police were pursuing a car with four juveniles on US Highway 30. Boone Police deployed stop sticks successfully. A couple of juveniles ran from the scene but were located with the assistance of Shocker, the Boone Police K-9. All four juveniles were turned over to Ames Police and were being charged in Ames.

Boone County Fair

BOONE, Iowa---It was a warm start to the 2010 Boone County Fair. 4-Hers went through judging for many projects Wednesday, fortunately in the air conditioned comfort of the Community Building. Those setting up and getting ready for a full day of activities Thursday battled oppressive heat. The heat index exceed 115-degrees Wednesday afternoon. There were no reports of any problems on the fair grounds. The balance of the week is expected to remain warm and dry.

Modified Charges

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone City Councils Utility Committee has agreed to modified charges for sanitary sewer services for Xenia Rural Water. Two-years ago, Xenia installed sanitary sewer services at the Central Iowa Expo site east of Boone. Due to a problem with metering accurate billing came into question. Over the past couple of months, Xenia and city staff addressed the problems and have determined a negotiated balance of just over $2,900 is owed the city.

Water Leak

BOONE, Iowa---Boone Public Works Director John Rouse says a water line leak at the corner of 6th and Story Streets early Thursday led to the closing of Story Street while repairs were made. Rouse says the leak was allowing water to run into the construction hole at the corner and was affecting the ability to repave the street. The closure was temporary. As of late Thursday morning, the area infront of the Boone County Historical Center was narrowed down to just a couple of lanes of traffic.