From the KCRG-TV9 Newsroom:
Johnson County is among the counties starting recounts today to help settle the election results in Iowa’s first congressional district. Right now, Republican incumbent Mariannette Miller-Meeks holds an 800 vote lead over Democratic challenger Christina Bohannan. Iowa County started its recount process yesterday morning, while other counties are to start either today or Monday. Bohannan called for the recount. The results must be certified by the state by December 2.
The fight over two words may determine if Cedar Rapids is awarded a new casino license. Opponents of the plan told the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission that language in the public referendum in 2021 says “If approved…operation of gambling games…may continue.” Riverside Casino takes issue with two words–“may continue”–claiming there are no gambling games now, so none could continue. The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission says it still plans to hold a casino license vote on February 6.
Dubuque’s public schools are getting $900,000 from the state to make buildings safer. The district didn’t want to say specifically what it was adding for security, but said it includes things like updated door locks, metal detectors, security doors and more. It all comes from the state’s $75 million School Safety Improvement Fund unveiled two years ago after the Uvalde shooting. But after the Perry High School shooting this year, less than a million dollars of that money had been spent.
Governor Reynolds said she will propose a cell phone ban for classrooms in her Condition of the State Address in January. School districts in Ankeny, Ames, Ottumwa have put cell phone bans in place, citing improvements to mental health and learning environments. The Iowa City School District is considering policy proposals.
And the bells are ringing once again as the Salvation Army of Cedar Rapids starts its Kettle Kickoff. The bell ringing campaign raises money for hot meals, rental assistance, emergency disaster services, and youth programs. The Salvation Army has a goal to raise $775,000 this season.
