From the KCRG-TV9 Newsroom:
Two men now face charges in connection with an 11-hour standoff just yards away from the Cedar Rapids Police Department building. Police officers arrested 49-year-old Christopher Kern of Grimes, and 45-year-old Glen Laxamana of Cedar Rapids. Police officers were attempting to locate Kern for an outstanding warrant from Polk County. Officers say when they arrived, Kern shot at them, and they returned fire. They say Kern then went back inside the Chelsea apartment building, which led to the standoff. Kern faces several charges, including three counts of attempted murder of a peace officer. Laxamana faces charges that he concealed Kern from arrest.
An Iowa Senate subcommittee approved a bill out to prevent cities from using certain tax benefits for casino projects. This would include licenses granted after January 1 of this year. This bill would not block the Cedar Crossing casino in Cedar Rapids because the developers say they don’t plan to request city tax benefits.
The city of Robins is holding a special election to ask community members to raise the city’s property tax rate. Robins lowered its property tax rate in fiscal year 2024, but due to new state laws, it stayed there instead of returning to its regular rate. A special election is set for next month.
The University of Iowa is working to add more parking that would benefit both UIHC and sporting events. It’s asking the Board of Regents to approve a $96 million, 5 level ramp that includes more than 1,200 parking spots. It proposes people pay the same amount they do at the Hawkeye Parking Ramp next to Kinnick Stadium. This ramp would go right across the street from Carver-Hawkeye Arena, near Newton Road. The Regents plan to discuss it at next week’s meeting. If approved, work would begin this spring.
Vermont U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders is scheduled to come to Iowa City tomorrow morning. He’ll be at The Englert Theatre for what’s called the “Fight Oligarchy” event. Doors open at 10:30; he’ll speak an hour later. Seating is free and first come, first served.
