Former SHS vocal music teacher facing sexual abuse charges
Joel Mark Foreman, age 43 of Mount Vernon, was arrested and booked into the Johnson County Jail Friday, August 21 on allegations of sexual abuse and misconduct during his time as Solon High School’s vocal music teacher. According to court documents Foreman is facing five charges: • Sexual Abuse 3rd Degree (Class C Felony) (709.4(1)) August 1, 2016 – May 31, 2017, at Solon High School “on or about the above stated date and time the Defendant did commit sexual abuse upon ____, a person 14 or 15 years of age, over whom the defendant is in a position of authority, which authority the defendant used to coerce submission. During the above time frame, the defendant was employed as a choir instructor with the Solon High School when he entered into a sexual relationship with a student during a session of private instruction.” • Sexual Abuse 3rd Degree (Class C Felony) August 1, 2016 - May 31, 2017, at Solon High School “On or about the above stated date and time, the Defendant did commit sexual abuse upon ____, a person 14 or 15 years of age, over whom the defendant is in a position of authority, which authority the defendant used to coerce submission. During the above time frame, the defendant was employed as a choir instructor with the Solon High School when he entered into a sexual relationship with a student during a session of private instruction.” • Sexual Exploitation by a School Employee (Scheme) (Class D Felony) (709.15(5)(a) April 1, 2019 – May 31, 2019, at Solon High School “During the above time period, the above defendant was a choir instructor for Solon High School and engaged in a scheme of conduct with a juvenile student in his care during and after school hours which
Presenting their case New jail and Sheriff’s Office proposal explained in first of three public information sessions ahead of November bond referendum
Johnson County Sheriff Brad Kunkel and Michael Lewis with Shive-Hattery held a public informational session last Tuesday in which they addressed questions about the proposed new county jail and sheriff ’s office. Standing at the head of the Solon City Hall council chambers, Kunkel began the session by explaining this idea — which has been discussed for over a decade — resurfaced and began gaining traction in 2022. A consultant was hired to conduct an audit of all Johnson County buildings. According to Kunkel, any build-
ing that scored above 60% was deemed in need of replacement. The sheriff ’s office scored 104%, and all other associated facilities — like Chatham Oaks — shared similar scores. Soon after receiving these audit results, a jail inspector and engineers with Axiom Consulting performed an assessment. This led to concerns about the building’s structural integrity, which later resulted in Shive-Hattery — an engineering and architectural firm — conducting a needs study, which Kunkel said was crucial in helping to develop the concepts discussed at the meeting. A f ter connecting w ith Shive-Hattery, the Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee resurfaced with its mission statement focused on replacing the worn facility. In search of public perspective, Kunkel said the University of Iowa’s Center for Social Science Innovation was contracted to conduct a survey, which showed around 74% of respondents reported being favorable or leaning favorable to
a new facility. This brings the project to the present day, where Kunkel’s main priority is on sharing the new facility proposal with Johnson County residents and answering community questions before a referendum vote is held in November. Following his discussion of
this proposal’s creation, Kunkel went into further detail regarding the perceived need for a new jail and sheriff ’s office. With 92 beds, an average daily population of around 88 inmates, an operational capacity of about 65 and the frequent need to house
Solon City Council discusses next steps of Jordan Creek Church Councilmen voiced how they would like to see developers proceed with utility and infrastructure connections
just south of Highway 382 NE, which is outside Solon city limits, Schechinger and Mayor Dan O’Neil expressed that the city would prefer this land to be annexed in order for the church to connect to city utility services. “This council has taken a pretty firm stance that if you want to be on city utilities, you should be in city limits,” O’Neil said. “There was the exception At the regularly-scheduled that we allowed Macbride Point Solon City Council meeting on to connect previously…but that Aug. 19, City Engineer Dave was out of water conservation.” Schechinger provided his proAlthough the city’s preference fessional opinion regarding is for annexation and connecdifferent options the new Jor- tion to city services, the project dan Creek Church site may engineers explored a few other pursue in setting up utilities. options to ensure utility conAs the project site resides nectivity would be accounted
for regardless. After the project engineers identified cost estimates for utility connection and access, Schechinger provided his insight to the council. In terms of sewer set-up, the church developers are in favor of implementing a septic system as opposed to extending sewer to the church from Trail Ridge. It was estimated whereas a septic system would cost the church $65,654 while a sewer extension from Trail Ridge would cost between $200,000 and $300,000. “As we’ve done with some other locations in town, or right outside of town, we’ve given the permission to do the septic with the condition that at such time
the sewer is adjacent to that property or close enough they can connect, they would make that connection and abandon the septic system,” Schechinger said. “The agreement would include that language.” In setting up water, the church developers identified three different options: to connect to city water, connect to Gallery Acres water line, or install a private well. These last two options would require a fire suppression tank to be installed at the site. Connection to the Gallery Acres line would cost around $369,225, and the well would cost about $650,000. “The request there is for them
SOLON
EC N MIST Focused on community.
inmates out-of-county, the sheriff expressed the jail has not grown along with Johnson County’s population. Aside from the jail, Kunkel said the sheriff ’s office currently has a staff of 112, which is 62 more people than the building was originally created to accommodate. Today, the office houses seven divisions: patrol, investigations, reserve deputies, civil process, records, jail and support services and administration. “Our demands have expanded significantly, and we’re doing it out of a space that was built for 50,” Kunkel said. In addition to spatial concerns, Kunkel said the sheriff ’s office has recently had issues with leaky pipes and rusting materials. He said $3.2 million has been spent in 2026 thus far to keep the building habitable, whereas $16.6 million was spent from 2001-2025 to house inmates out-of-county due to overpopulation. Wrapping up his portion of the session, Kunkel said if the referendum passes, construction will begin in fall 2027 and is projected to be completed in 2029. The proposed building would be placed just west of Slothower Rd in Iowa City. Kunkel said the building footprint covers around 21 acres and has easy access to utilities. In the second portion of the session, Lewis — who, as an architect, has been designing justice facilities for 36 years — walked the audience through the proposed building design. He outlined that 45%, or 53,730 square feet, would make up the jail. The other 55%, or 64,770 square feet, would house the sheriff ’s office. Upon opening, the jail would have 120 available beds,
Of a Little Weekly Miracle
¡ ¢ ¢ £ although the building would have the potential to offer 140 beds to more space if the need were to arise. “The county made the decision that instead of building out the full 140 beds that were projected, they felt more comfortable with the project at the 120 level,” Lewis said. “So, we’re going to build the exterior walls of the shell space and have the ability to build those cells in the future.” Along with more space for inmates and staff, Kunkel and Lewis outlined the new facility would be ADA accessible, include a secure family visitation and attorney area, and ultimately meet all Iowa jail
culminated into what the above code section defines as sexual conduct. The def was aware of his misconduct and continued in his teaching occupation without notifying any administration or removing himself (from) the school environment.” • Sexual Exploitation by a School Employee (Scheme) (Class D Felony) August 1, 2016 – June 30, 2020 at Solon High School “On or about the above stated date and time, the Defendant did as a school employee, engage in a pattern, practice, and/or scheme of sexual conduct with ____, a student for the purpose of arousing or satisfying the sexual desires of the school employee or the student. During the above time period, the above defendant was a choir instructor for Solon High School and engaged in a scheme of conduct with a juvenile student in his care during and after school hours which culminated into what the above code section defines as sexual conduct on
standards that are currently out-ofreach at the current facility. Following the building summary, Kunkel addressed one of the most common questions from Johnson County residents: how the project will be funded and why. He said property taxes will cover the cost. “The other question that comes up is, ‘why do my property taxes have to pay for it?’” Kunkel said. “Well, that’s the funding mechanism for local government…the sheriff ’s office and a jail are statutory requirements of Iowa code. It’s a fundamental county service. Your property taxes pay for it. That’s why your property taxes will have to go up to pay for this. I wish there was another funding stream, but this is the hand we’re dealt.” Altogether, Johnson County has proposed a general obligation bond of $94.5 million to complete this project. The estimated tax impact is reported to be $88 per $100,000 of taxable value, which includes interest. At the end of the session, members of the public in attendance fielded their questions to Kunkel and Lewis. One man asked what guarantees are in place to prevent cost overruns. “I’ve included 13% contingency in the design and estimated stage, and five percent contingency for construction,” Lewis said. “There’s an 18% number built into this project in order to protect that from happening. There’s no guarantees, but
multiple occasions throughout this time period. The defendant was aware of this inappropriate relationship he was maintaining and continued in his position while maintaining the inappropriate contact with the student.” • Sexual Exploitation by a School Employee (Scheme) (Class D Felony) August 1, 2009 – June 30, 2011 at Solon High School “During the above time period, the above defendant was a choir instructor for Solon High School and engaged in a scheme of conduct with a juvenile student in his care during and after school hours which culminated into what the above code section defines as sexual conduct on multiple occasions throughout this time period. The defendant continued this inappropriate relationship with the student in post high school years as well. The defendant was aware of this inappropriate relationship and continued in his position while maintaining the inappropriate contact with the student.” Foreman resigned from the district in November 2022 as the subject of an ‘unspecified investigation.’ The Solon Community
we put that in as a measure.” Another audience member asked if it was true that the last two jail inspection reports noted zero deficiencies. Kunkel confirmed this statement, stating he was “very proud” of his staff for keeping the jail so cleanly. In response, the audience member added “that doesn’t exactly paint the picture of a building that is going to be shut down by an inspector.” Addressing this concern, Kunkel explained these inspections were primarily focused on cleanliness, not necessarily building integrity. He said all imminent structural problems with the building have been fixed, but the county wants to get ahead of worsening problems. Rounding out the meeting, a few other audience members asked about specific cost breakdowns in each portion of the building as well as what specific steps are being taken to ensure compliance, such as with the ADA. More information regarding these topics can be found at https://www.johnsoncountyiowa. gov/office-of-sheriff. The next public informational session will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1, at the Health and Human Services Building, 855 S. Dubuque Street, in Iowa City. Johnson County residents are encouraged to attend with questions and comments. The third and final session is set for Tuesday, October 6 at the North Liberty City Hall, 360 N. Main Street, North Liberty.
School District (SCSD)’s Board of Education accepted that resignation in a special morning session Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2022, with pleas from attendees to disregard the resignation and not terminate his employment, citing Foreman’s positive impact in the school district and community at large. Superintendent Davis Eidahl responded by saying the District recognized Foreman’s impact and influence, and added the Board and District were limited as to what they could say regarding a personnel issue. Then-Board President Dr. Tim Brown stated the Board had been made aware of the nature of the investigation. Foreman’s resignation was accepted on a 3-0 vote. Along with resigning from the SCSD, Foreman also voluntarily surrendered his teaching license, which has since been permanently revoked by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners. A new Investigation began in May after two former students reported incidents of sexual contact with Foreman to the Johnson County Sheriff ’s Office. As of Saturday, August 22 Foreman was being held in the Johnson County Jail without bond.
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CITY COUNCIL from 1
(the church developers) to be able to start the procedure to request the connection to Gallery Acres by filling out the permit and moving forward with that — if council is agreeable to that,” Schechinger said. Regarding pavement and site access, Schechinger explained constructing a street and extending utilities all the way from Trail Ridge to Highway 382 would cost around $2 million. Solely constructing from Highway 382 to a point 400 feet south along the front of the church would cost around $660,000; that is, according to Veenstra & Kimm, Inc., the firm Schechinger works with. Taking each of these figures and potential options into consideration, O’Neil expressed that he remains strongly
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SOLON ECONOMIST | THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2026 | 3
in favor of this land being annexed. It was also noted the church developers would be willing to do so. However, annexing now — that is, only the land the church site resides on — would result in “city limits outside of city limits,” according to O’Neil. The church would essentially be on an “island” surrounded by Johnson County property. To prevent the creation of an “island,” O’Neil said additional land — which is owned by Upmeyer Farms LLC — would need to be annexed as well. “It’s entirely up to them if they want to annex or not,” O’Neil said. “We talked through some of the concerns he (Bob Upmeyer, owner) had…some protections that they would want for that property if they were to annex.” At the meeting, Bob Upmeyer — one of the owners of this land — said his family plans to annex that additional
land — whether in part or whole — “sooner or later.” He said the family’s intention is not to develop that land, but rather to preserve the natural land and wildlife that resides on the property. “We are favorable to annexation with some assurances,” Upmeyer said. O’Neil said the next steps of this project are likely going to entail the church developers applying for water access to the Gallery Acres water line in order to continue moving the project forward. This would require review and a myriad of additional processes with both Johnson County and the City of Solon. Pursuing this application now would also be anticipatory of an upcoming annexation. The next Solon City Council meeting will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 2.
with BAM POW: our Build and Make, Play or Watch programs! Starting September 10, we’ll start with Build it! Tiny Cardboard Construction. On September 17, join us for our Make It! Perler Beads. Finally, on September 24, we will finish the month with Play It! Homemade Play Dough. For adults, DIY Night will return with Basic Cake Decorating with Kurthcakes! Join us Tuesday, September 8 at 6:30 p.m., with special guest Alexis Kurth, owner of Kurthcakes, for a fun, hands-on introduction to cake decorating! Registration for this program is required. Monday, September 21, at 5:30 p.m., join us with special guest Dee Swartzendruber for a presentation on the history and intricacies of the Hurdy-Gurdy. Thursday, September 24, at 6:30 p.m., join us with special guest David Cwiertny, PhD, from the University of Iowa for a presentation on our local water quality! Learn about where our local water quality stands, what you can do to improve water quality, and what barriers currently exist to hinder the quality of our water.
Amigurumi two!: crocheted toys for me and you and baby too by Ana Paula Rimoli. With quirky faces and out-of-proportion body parts, these wildly creative and imaginative toys are irresistible! Crochet a comical tool set that includes a hammer with a funny face! Or create sweet bunnies and teddy bears wearing pajamas and each carrying their own little bunny or teddy bear. Choose from over 25 fun and funny designs, including a crib mobile and stroller toys especially for Baby. Join the Amigurumi craze with this follow-up to the enormously popular Amigurumi World. Learn how in just minutes - most projects require only single crochet and a few basic finishing techniques.
SOLON PUBLIC LIBRARY NEWS In September, the Library is celebrating the 25th Anniversary of our current building! Join us on Saturday, September 25th, for a celebration of the Solon Public Library, its history, and of course its Library community. Hosted by the Friends of Solon Public Library, Board of Trustees, and the Solon Public Library Foundation. September is Library Card Sign-up Month! Back in 1987, Library Card Sign-Up Month began with a simple but powerful idea: every child should have a library card—and use it! That message still rings true today! At Solon Public Library, we believe a Library card is your ticket to so much more than books. Use your Library card to check out puzzles, cake pans, the Iowa Adventure Pass, and more surprises you might not expect! Sign up for a new Library card or renew your account this September and you’ll be entered to win a fun prize bundle. Remember, the library is for everyone, every day! Don’t have a Library card? Visit the Library or sign-up for a Library card on our website at https://www.solon. lib.ia.us/services/library-card. Children and teens under the age of 14 require a parent’s or guardian’s signature to complete an application. When setting up a parent Library card, be sure to indicate if you’d like to allow your child or children to use your card to check out materials. There is no limit to the number of materials a patron can check out! We have movies, audiobooks, and of course fiction and nonfiction for all ages. We also have a Library of Things, a special collection of tools, cake pans, and hobby materials available for our patrons. Need to renew or replace your Library card, or want to learn more about what a Library card offers at the Solon Public Library? Call or visit the Library to learn more!
Library Access
The complete high-protein cookbook: hit your protein goals, boost fiber, love every bite by America’s Test Kitchen, with Megan Mirgorodsky, MS, RD, LDN. Savor fabulous food while hitting your protein goals. These 200+ meals and snacks show just how delicious everyday food can be while maximizing protein and increasing fiber, too. No matter what your reason for eating high protein, this book has what you need. Short ingredient lists, streamlined prep, make-ahead tips, ways to customize meals for everyone at the table, meal plans, plus easy ways to turbo-boost protein ensure that this food fits seamlessly into your routine with minimal work-and maximum flavor.
Regular Library hours are Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Sundays. Please always refer to our website calendar or call to check hours as weather may impact our ability to be safely open. Friday, August 28, the Library will be open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. History of the Solon Public Library, Part 22 Everyone is welcome at the Library and our programs. Through all of the fundraising and construction of the Please contact us with access needs. new building, there were a few details that caught the library board off guard. We had this wonderful new space with a meeting room New in Non-Fiction and public restrooms and…..oops, we need cleaning help! Here’s what’s new in Non-Fiction at the Library! A job description for part-time custodial help was drawn Library Programs The spinner’s book of fleece: a breed-by-breed guide to up and applications were solicited. Afterschool programs return in September! choosing and spinning the perfect fiber for every purpose We also realized that we hadn’t set aside funds for the For teens, starting immediately after school on Tuesdays, by Beth Smith. The characteristics of fleece -- its struc- number of computers that we would need for the public to join us for Switch and Social starting September 8! Hang ture, grease content, and fiber diameter -- vary widely use. Several refurbished computers were donated by the out with friends, eat snacks, and play games! We’ll have a depending on the breed of sheep the fleece comes from. In Lear Corporation, in Iowa City. An anonymous donor also variety of board games available and games for our Switch. this comprehensive guide, Beth Smith profiles 21 types of stepped up and with matching donations, fourteen new Also for teens, Thursday, September 24, at 3 p.m., we’re fleece, from bouncy and pliant to lacy and lightweight. A computers were put into place. South Slope provided the making Shrinky Dinks! From keychains and charms to sheep-by-sheep reference describes the best way to wash Library with free Internet service in those early days. earrings and necklaces, teens are welcome to join us for and spin each fleece into rich, soft yarn. You'll soon be conThere were unexpected challenges with opening a new some afterschool crafting time. fidently choosing the right fleece, spinning it to perfection, building, but solutions were found as we grew into our new Early-out Thursday activities for 1st-8th Graders returns and enjoying the perfect yarn for your next fiber creation. library space.
School Board delays 8th grade athletic policy action, identifies A.I. approach
given structured guidance regarding approaches, it may be wise to wait a few months to give them proper time to respond. Along with having a desire for further state-level guidance, Laing also expressed that the Solon school district has not had any issues filling teams for the fall 2026 sports season. The board also acknowledged that the fall sports season has already begun, so even if this new allowance were addressed in the board’s student activity programs policy, it is highly unlikely an eighth grader would be pulled up; that is, especially considering the levels of approval they would need to get. Policy 504.06 was referred back to the board’s governance committee. Over the next few months, board members — specifically Cassie Rochholz and Laing — will conduct further research. Then, the entire board will revisit the policy later this academic year. That being said, this fall, policy 504.06 will remain the same as it was last year. “Ultimately, we don’t necessarily feel that need has been Grace Escritt demonstrated this early in the fall for us to support a policy Solon Economist like this,” Laing said. “Not that we are not open to it in the news@soloneconomist.com future, especially if we can receive that guidance from the Board of Education. We can have further discussions of how At its Aug. 20 meeting, the Solon Community School we would flesh out this policy to best support our kids in District’s Board of Education decided to delay changing school, in academics, and with their well-being in general.” policy 504.06 — which establishes the rules surrounding student activity programs — to address the new law allowA.I. policy discussed, task force ing eighth graders to play high school sports; that is, until evaluating use the Iowa Department of Education provides more guidance regarding implementation. The board also heard from associate superintendent Josh Board member Megan Laing said considering the law Lyons about how the district plans to approach artificial — House File 2591 (HF 2591) — came about without initial intelligence (A.I.) during academic year 2026-27. He said support from the Iowa High School Athletic Association, the board officially implemented policy 605.8 — which and considering the Iowa Board of Education has not yet addresses district A.I. use — last spring. However, as board
policies can be quite broad, Lyons said he will be enlisting help from an AI task force this year to gain further insight regarding implementation and operationalization of this policy. “It (the task force) is a group of district teachers and administrators really formed to examine not just the policy…but be able to take that policy and interpret some of those pieces,” he said. Getting into the specifics, Lyons said the task force — which is made up of 13 committee members — will be researching how to identify which methods to use in choosing A.I. tools and also which A.I. tools are best suited to use in an academic setting. In exploring and implementing A.I., Lyons said the task force’s main priority is to ensure the safety and security of students’ and teachers’ personal information. In addition, the task force will seek to teach students how to use A.I. responsibly and ethically; that is, as an educational resource, not something to do their work for them. Lyons said implementing A.I. platforms in the educational setting will not incur large costs for the district, as all that will need to be purchased are licenses and subscriptions for certain programs — that is, like Magic School. By the end of academic year 2026-27, Lyons hopes to have established an A.I. readiness and literacy framework to help students and teachers alike begin to embrace this new resource. “We’re at a point now where we’ve got to really embrace it,” Lyons said. “It’s all around us. We can embrace it and understand its power, usefulness, and how it can best impact both teaching and learning.” The next regular school board meeting will be held on Sept. 17 at 5:45 p.m. at the District’s Central Office, 301 South Iowa Street.
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4 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2026 | SOLON ECONOMIST
Home remedies and the Doctor Book Food for Thought Milli Gilbaugh
When President Lincoln opened up the western territory to homesteaders, my mother's forebearers (who had been here before the revolution) were poised and experienced, ready to head west across the Mississippi to Kansas, Colorado and beyond. During that time every family had its medical expert. This was usually a grandmother or older aunt who had raised seven or eight children, delivered a few babies, and nursed the entire neighborhood during a flu epidemic. She was the one everybody turned to when they got a boil, a wart, or an earache. She may not have had any medical training, but she had plenty of experience and her greatest qualification was good sense. She knew that people who were ill needed rest, nourishing food and loving attention. As for medications – well, she usually had her favorite all-purpose remedy. Unfortunately for many of her patients, that remedy was usually a hefty dose of castor oil. More often than not, it was harmless enough if not helpful, but in other cases it could be dangerous. Then, there was the bread poultice. If you’ve never experienced that particular treatment, let me tell you a little about it. A bread poultice is similar to turkey stuffing without the spices. Made of dry bread and hot milk, it is generally tied in a cloth and applied to the body for any number of ailments. Among these are chest colds, muscle aches, boils, bee stings and any external infections. The bread poultice stays warm for a considerable time if applied in generous amounts. Its heat can be comforting, although it feels strangely similar to a sock full of vomit or a really messy diaper. If you can get past those two images, you will probably survive whatever ailment you happen to have. Another feature of the bread poultice is the fact that, as it cools, it has a vacuum effect that draws out pus, bee stingers and, supposedly, infection in general. A short-cut treatment, with much the same effect, was to fill a heavy glass milk bottle with very hot water until the bottle was thoroughly heated. Then, after pouring out the water, to place the mouth of the bottle over a boil or bee sting and hold it there while it cooled. As the bottle and the air inside it cooled, the air contracted, creating a vacuum effect and, in some cases, it would actually pull out the stinger, splinter or thorn or cause the boil to burst and drain. Infections were serious matters in the days before antibiotics and, while normally healthy people who hadn’t been subjected to overly obsessive hygiene were pretty resistant to infections, it was always a good idea to take precautions. Bathing a wound with strong, soapy water or a solution of warm water and Lysol was standard practice among home remedies. Other practitioners believed that anything acidic, “strong” or merely having a pungent odor would kill germs. Household bleach, even turpentine, were thought to kill germs and ward off infection. Vinegar (actually an efficient germ-killer) was popular and effective. Cookbooks often had sections dealing with home remedies and, when Granny or Aunt Elva wasn’t handy for consultation, the inexperienced turned to the back of the cookbook for help. Those with no other resources – or with acute hypochondria – could purchase a weighty and gruesomely illustrated “Doctor Book” that described in great detail all known diseases and their symptoms and treatments. Anyone with an average imagination (including my Uncle Don) could easily spend an evening reading this tome and self-diagnose at least a dozen serious, and probably fatal, ailments. “Tonics” were readily available in apothecary shops and by mail-order and, while most were usually just colored water with a small amount of alcohol or narcotic added, others were heavily laced with “medicinal herbs” touted to cure everything from lethargy to appendicitis. Magazines carried numerous ads for cures for “women’s ailments”, trusses, and potions to stop alcoholics from craving drink I hope you are smiling at all the silly things that people used to do before the advent of modern medicine. Now let me ask you a question. If you have a shelf full of herbal remedies, “natural” supplements and self-prescribed vitamins and minerals have you asked your doctor about taking them?
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D.M. school officials met the law – but missed the point
You would think a school district readily employees receive. knows its A-B-C’s. Unlike private business, government Not the Des Moines Public Schools — at agencies do not generate their own revenue least not when informing the public what in a competitive marketplace. They colits 6,600 employees were paid during the lect taxes and fees under authority granted academic year that ended June 30. by the citizens. Citizens are the ultimate Yes, grade school teachers still call roll in shareholders of government, and they alphabetical order. And next spring’s high have a right to know how their tax money school graduates will walk across the stage is spent. as their names are announced, starting with Des Moines’ decision to publish the the A’s and moving through to the Z’s. employee compensation in a scattershot But when publishing a list of its employees fashion represents a deeper problem than last month and how much taxpayers paid just poor optics. The way officials arranged each one, the Des Moines Public Schools’ the names suggests an attempt to circumalphabet started with Tiara S. Ziegler. Next vent the purpose of the requirement rather was Pia Marcell Stites, and the list continthan embracing the responsibility. Randy Evans ued in an anything but organized, logical This is not the first time the Des Moines Iowa Freedom of Information Council manner. district has acted as if its residents were an Was this an attempt to hide names by annoyance. We saw this last October, when randomness and make it difficult to the school board accepted the immediate compare salaries? Or was this the result of a brain freeze, resignation of Robert Lundin, the district’s chief acamuch as when the school board hired Ian Roberts as demic officer, but decided — for reasons never explained superintendent without first doing a comprehensive to the public — to continue paying him his $195,600 background check and then fired him soon after he was salary through June 30 of this year. arrested on federal immigration and gun charges? There is an important distinction between making A longstanding Iowa law requires public school dis- information technically available and making it meantricts to publish a list of their employees and wages each ingfully accessible. year. Des Moines complied with that law on July 20, takA school district genuinely committed to openness ing up six full pages with an official notice in The Des should recognize there are legitimate reasons for easily Moines Register. allowing people to examine salaries and other finanThe publication requirement is simple. Lawmakers cial details. They may want to better understand how wanted every district to inform their residents who is their tax money is spent, compare compensation among being paid and how much each received. This is a basic departments, identify unusually high salaries, investiprinciple of accountable government. gate changes in compensation over time, or simply see So what does it say about the Des Moines district’s what their teachers and administrators are paid. commitment to transparency when it puts the names This is not an extravagant demand. And that is why the in willy-nilly order? Taxpayers paid the $5,126 cost for random ordering of Des Moines school employee wages publication of this notice. looks so bad. I've asked school officials for an explanation Technically, perhaps, the district can say it met the let- and continue to wait for their explanation. ter of the compensation-disclosure law. The information When the district makes the salaries hard to use, the is there. The salaries are public. Mission accomplished. public rightfully asks why. One wishes school leaders betBut transparency should not be a game of ter understood how fragile the bond of trust is between technicalities. the district and its constituents. Randomizing thousands of names may satisfy a narSecrecy breeds suspicion. And obfuscation invites conrow interpretation of disclosure. But the way Des Moines tempt. did this undermines the purpose of the requirement and Being open and accountable is a mindset, and once you invites the public to distrust the district’s commitment understand how it serves the public good, it is as easy as to transparency and accountability. 1-2-3. If citizen activists, journalists, watchdog groups and curious taxpayers must sift through a vast maze of names Let me know: simply to determine how much certain employees were My readers are located throughout Iowa. Please let paid, Des Moines is guilty of placing an unnecessary me know whether your local school district publishes its obstacle between the public and the information people employee salary list in random order, too. The list will have a right to see and evaluate. appear in your local newspaper, typically between late Few government expenditures are more significant — July and late autumn. Email me at IowaFOICouncil@ or more deserving of public attention — than the salaries gmail.com.
Stray Thoughts
Q&A: Fraud drives up healthcare costs With U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley Q: How would your fraud prevention bill recover tax dollars and improve healthcare? A: Americans work hard for their money. As a taxpayer watchdog, I take seriously the responsibility to ensure every tax dollar collected for government services is spent as intended. From the Pentagon to public healthcare programs, I lead efforts at the policymaking tables to sharpen fraud-fighting tools and protect taxpayer money. Starting with my decades-long crusade to empower whistleblowers, my updates to the False Claims Act have recouped more than $85 billion for taxpayers and saved tens of billions more by deterring would-be fraudsters. Notably, of the $6.8 billion in settlements and judgments in just the last fiscal year, the lion’s share of the recoveries was from the healthcare industry. The Department of Justice lasered in on three areas of widespread fraud in the U.S. healthcare system: Medicare managed care, prescription drugs and medically unnecessary care. Building on this success, I recently joined forces with senators on the Senate Finance Committee to beef up
resources to combat fraud, waste and abuse across federal health programs that serve families, kids and seniors. Federal healthcare spending is expected to exceed $24 trillion over the next decade. Every dollar lost to fraud, improper billing or neglect is another squandered tax dollar and one less dollar for patient care. As a former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, I’m glad the committee’s current chairman, Sen. Mike Crapo, and ranking member, Sen. Ron Wyden, teamed up with me and Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto. Our bill, the Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Act, would help ensure long-term, stable funding to prevent, detect and prosecute fraud and keep pace with evolving, sophisticated schemes. According to estimates from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, our bill would save taxpayers at least $45 billion. Specifically, our bipartisan bill would improve the Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control program to better scrutinize federal health programs and scrape fraud out of the taxpayer funding pipeline. Partners across
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OPINIONS
multiple federal agencies will have more resources to coordinate and combat fraud in Medicaid, Medicare, the Affordable Care Act Health Insurance Marketplace, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, as well as related private insurance programs. Deploying better-equipped fraud fighters also put would-be fraudsters on notice that bilking taxpayers doesn’t pay. The bill requires timely reporting to track the fraud and abuse control program’s effectiveness and asks the Government Accountability Office to report on its performance for the first time in over a dozen years. The Trump administration has made fraud prevention, detection and prosecution a high priority, a mission I’ve pursued throughout my time in Congress on behalf of the American people. I welcome this all-hands-on-deck effort and will continue working to ensure all the anti-fraud tools
SOLON ECONOMIST | THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2026 | 5
in the federal arsenal are razor sharp, including civil the unacceptable and pervasive crimes of federal proenforcement tools, such as my False Claims Act. gram fraud. Recently, the U.S. Depar tment of Justice Q: How will Iowa benefit from a new federal awarded nearly $4 million to the Iowa Attorney Gengrant to target fraud and financial crimes? eral’s office to coordinate efforts to fight Medicaid and A: During his confirmation hearing, the U.S. public benefit fraud. This grant provides funding to hire Assistant Attorney General for the National Fraud and assign five prosecutors to serve as Special AssisEnforcement Division at the Department of Justice said tant United States Attorneys within the U.S. Attorney’s he is committed to “prosecute criminals who exploit offices in Iowa that are based in Des Moines and Cedar the generosity of a country by stealing from taxpay- Rapids. This federal funding reflects how the Trump er-funded programs.” That’s music to the ears of Iowans administration is putting money where its mouth is: who are absolutely fed up with their hard-earned money boots on the ground to fight fraud, protect the integrity lining the pockets of scam artists, such as the outra- of government programs that serve Iowans and hold geous Covid-era schemes in Minnesota and elsewhere. wrongdoers accountable. I supported Colin McDonald to fill this new role at the Justice Department, who is leading efforts to snuff out
Grassley, Ernst announce Service Academy Virtual Information nights BUSINESS SERVICES BUTLER COUNTY, IA — The offices of U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) will hos two virtual informational events for Iowa students interested in applying to U. S. Military Service Academies in the fall of 2027 or 2028. The U.S. Service Academy Virtual Informational Nights will be held Monday, August 31, and Tuesday, Sept. 1, from 6-8 p.m. Representatives from all five service academies will be available to answer questions about the application and nomination process. The Monday, August 31, session will be attended by representatives from the Air Force Academy, Coast Guard Academy, and the Military Academy at West Point. The Tuesday, Sept.1, session will be attended by representatives from the Naval Academy and the Merchant Marine Academy. Each year, Grassley and Ernst nominate current and future Iowa high school graduates for a select few academy positions. The deadline to apply for admission to the academic year beginning in the fall of 2027 is October 23, 2026.
Service Academy Virtual Information nights details When: Monday, August 31, and Tuesday, Sept. 1, 6-8 p.m. Who should attend: High school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors who would like more information about attending a U.S. military academy. Parents, guardians, and high school guidance counselors are also welcome to attend.
INSURANCE
TREE CARE
Iowans who wish to attend the virtual informational session must RSVP to receive a link to the event. Please RSVP directly to academy_nominations@grassley.senate.gov or by phone at 515-288-1145. Iowans can contact Grassley’s office at 515-288-1145, and Ernst’s office at 515-284-4272 with any questions. The Academy Nomination application and more information can be found at www.grassley.senate.gov/services/academynominations.
VET SERVICES
HEALTH CARE HOME SERVICES
NEWS FROM JOHNSON COUNTY
Juvenile Justice and Youth Development Policy Board vacancies
resentative. Duties of the policy board include, but are not limited to, the following: spearhead the development of countywide prevention, intervention and sanctions services coordination; oversee the development of assessment and monitoring systems; review strategic planning and monitor progress of projects; brief the community on the value of asset-building by talking to local groups and engaging in other promotional activities; promote activities that are designed to raise assets in youth; proThe Johnson County Board of Supervisors announces vide and develop funding for asset-building programs six vacancies on the Johnson County Juvenile Justice in the community; and act as a source of information and Youth Development Policy Board. and communication conduit for various groups and Three vacancies are for individuals categorized individuals interested in participating in projects. as “business, parents, residents or youth,” with one The policy board meets on a quarterly basis from 3:30 vacancy to fill a three-year term beginning October 1, to 5 p.m. on the first Monday of February, May, August 2026, and expiring Sept. 30, 2029; one vacancy to fill a and November. partial term beginning upon appointment and expiring Application forms are available at www.johnsoncounSept. 30, 2027; and one vacancy to fill a partial term tyiowa.gov/vacancies and in the office of the Johnson beginning upon appointment and expiring Sept. 30, County Board of Supervisors. 2028. Two vacancies are for representatives of a social Completed applications must be returned to the service agency. One vacancy is for a juvenile court rep- Board Office by 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026.
NEWS FROM THE IOWA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
YOUR AD HERE
319.624.2233
SUBSCRIBE • 319.624.2233 Solon among 74 schools recognized by Iowa Department of Education for FAFSA completion success
The Iowa Department of Education announced 74 Iowa schools are being recognized for their outstanding commitment to student completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) during the 2025-26 school year. Now in its second year, the FAFSA Focused Awards recognize schools that have met or exceeded their preset student FAFSA completion goals for the year. “The FAFSA is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid, which is vital for students who are pursuing their postsecondary educational dreams,” said Christina Sibaouih, chief of the Department’s Bureau of Postsecondary Community Engagement. “It is wonderful to see the growing number of Iowa schools that are prioritizing FAFSA completion with their students to help open doors and postsecondary pathways to future success. Congratulations to our 74 schools that are being honored as FAFSA Focused Awardees!” The Department awarded the FAFSA Focused School of Excellence award to 28 Iowa schools for meeting or exceeding a 70% FAFSA completion rate. Additionally, 46 Iowa schools received the Focused School of Achievement award for meeting or exceeding their
FAFSA completion goal. To be eligible for the awards, schools were required to set a FAFSA completion goal by Nov. 15, 2025. Don Bosco High School, a FAFSA-School of Excellence awardee, topped all Iowa schools with a 96% FAFSA completion rate for students. Awardees for the 2025-26 school year receive Department support and resources to ensure students are prepared for success in transitioning to postsecondary education. The FAFSA helps determine students’ eligibility for scholarships, grants, work study and student loans and is also used by many postsecondary institutions to determine financial need. FAFSA completion is a core component of the program, helping students to finance postsecondary education and remove financial barriers to education and training beyond high school. Solon High School was recognized for a 75% completion rate. Statewide, 54.2% of the class of 2026 completed the FAFSA as of July 31, 2026, representing an increase of over 3% compared to last year. Detailed statewide and school FAFSA completion figures are available at https://reports.educateiowa.gov/FAFSA/.p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026.
SPORTS
NEWS
12 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2026 | SOLON ECONOMIST
UPCOMING SPORTS EVENTS FOOTBALL
Week One – Friday, August 28 – AT Assumption Catholic, Davenport, 7:30 p.m. FroshSoph, 5 p.m.
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VARSITY FOOTBALL
Steel sharpens steel as Spartans and Linn-Mar Lions scrimmage ahead of their season openers this week Photos by Chris Umscheid | Solon Economist
VOLLEYBALL Thursday, Sept. 3 – Marshalltown Apgar Quad, Marshalltown HS, 5:00 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 5 – Spartan Invitational, SHS & SMS, 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8 – AT Mount Vernon, 7:30 p.m. Freshmen, 5 p.m. Sophomores, 5 p.m. JV, 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10 – HOME vs. VintonShellsburg, 7:30 p.m. Freshman, 5 p.m. Sophomores, 6 p.m. JV, 5 p.m. CROSS COUNTRY Saturday, August 29 Mt. Mercy invitational, Seminole Valley Park, Cedar Rapids, 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 3 – Bob Brown Invitational (B&G) at IC Kickers Soccer Club. Girls 4 p.m., boys 4:45 p.m. GIRLS SWIMMING (with Iowa City High School)
Tuesday, Sept. 1 – HOME (Mercer Park Aquatic Center vs. Cedar Rapids Washington, 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8 – At Prairie, Cedar Rapids (Prairie Summit YMCA), 6 p.m.
Top left: Head Coach Lucas Stanton fires up his varsity Spartans as they take the field for a scrimmage game against Class 5A Linn-Mar Friday, August 21, in the Lions’ den in Marion. Above: Linn-Mar’s Deklan Thoms (11) grabs Cody Milliman (17) in mid-air as the Solon senior makes a reception Friday, August 21, during a scrimmage game between the Spartans and Lions. Solon had multiple touchdowns in the un-scored/no stats game against the Class 5A Lions ahead of both teams’ season openers this Friday.
GIRLS TENNIS (with Iowa City High School)
Saturday, August 29 – At Wahlert Catholic, Dubuque, 9 a.m. Saturday, August 29 – At Western Dubuque, 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1 – HOME vs. Liberty HS, 4 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8 – HOME vs. Cedar Rapids Jefferson, 4 p.m.
JV Quarterback Bryce Armentrout (5) looks for his receiver as Linn-Mar’s Walter Eichinger (45) moves in for a sack Friday, August 21, in the Lions’ stadium in Marion. The JV and freshman squads played half-field games simultaneously ahead of a varsity scrimmage. The JV season opens Monday, August 31, at home against Assumption Catholic at 6 p.m.
Left: Kaden Hoeper (5) and Grant Gordon (11) celebrate Hoeper’s touchdown off a pass reception Friday, August 21, against Linn-Mar in Marion. The Class 3A Spartans scored multiple times against the Class 5A Lions in the un-scored/ no stats kept game. Above: Maddox Kelley (4), a senior wide receiver/defensive back, took a turn at quarterback Friday, August 21, in a scrimmage game against Linn-Mar. Kelley crossed the goal line twice in the unscored/no stats kept game.
JV FOOTBALL
Junior Varsity highlights against Linn-Mar Photos by Chris Umscheid | Solon Economist
JV Football Schedule Monday, August 31 – HOME vs. Assumption Catholic, 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 7 – At Williamsburg, 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14 – HOME vs. Mount Vernon, 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21 – At Benton Community, 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 28 – At North Scott, 6 p.m. Monday, October 5 – HOME vs. Central DeWitt (sophomores), 6 p.m. Monday, October 12 – At Xavier Catholic, Cedar Rapids, (sophomores) 6 p.m. Thursday, October 15 – At Western Dubuque (sophomores), 6 p.m. Thursday, October 22 – HOME vs. Williamsburg, 6 p.m.
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SPORTS
SOLON ECONOMIST | THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2026 | 7
Above: Colton Sieverding (16) makes a carry Friday, August 21, in a junior varsity (JV) scrimmage against the Class 5A Linn-Mar Lions in Marion. Right: Grant Milliman (26) runs through an opening created by Hudson Pauley (left) and Jack Jedlicka during a scrimmage game against Class 5A LinnMar Friday, August 21, in the Lions’ stadium in Marion.
FRESHMAN FOOTBALL
Freshman highlights against Linn-Mar Photos by Chris Umscheid | Solon Economist
Freshman Football Schedule Friday, August 28 – At Assumption Catholic, Davenport, 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 – HOME vs. Williamsburg, 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 – At Mount Vernon, 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 – HOME vs. Benton Community, 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 – HOME vs. Fairfield, 5 p.m. Thursday, October 1 – HOME vs. Cedar Falls, 6:30 p.m. Friday, October 9 – At Washington (JV), 5 p.m. Friday, October 16 – HOME vs. Mount Pleasant, 5 p.m. Friday, October 23 – HOME vs. Fort Madison (JV), 5 p.m. Left: Finnegan Grafft (22) looks to thread the needle between a pair of Linn-Mar Lions in a freshman scrimmage game Friday, August 21, in Marion.
Right: LinnMar’s Finley Bushman (25) looks to intercept quarterback Cael Cannon (10) as he tries to find his receiver during a freshman scrimmage game against the Class 5A Linn-Mar Lions Friday, August 21, in Marion.
Far right: Nolan Smith (23) gets upended by LinnMar’s Keegan Bormann (17) in a freshman scrimmage against the Class 5A Linn-Mar Lions Friday, August 21, in Marion.
SPORTS/NEWS
8 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2026 | SOLON ECONOMIST
SOLONECONOMIST.COM
CROSS COUNTRY PREVIEW
Solon Cross Country to open season Saturday at Seminole Valley Classic Mike Kabela For the Solon Economist
nagging injuries much of 2025. Sophomore Kolton Kolar snuck into the varsity lineup a few times last season and will be looked at to contribute much more this season after a solid Solon’s boys and girls cross country teams open their sea- track campaign as a freshman. Freshman Layne Harden and sons in Cedar Rapids Saturday morning at Seminole Valley senior Ben Yeomans will see their first varsity races SaturPark. day. Junior Preston Raasch is currently sidelined, but when The Lady Spartans enter the season with their entire var- healthy has been a solid runner for the track and cross country sity squad back from the 2025 campaign and a number three teams and could be the key to any hopes of qualifying the ranking in class 3A. The boys return three runners from the boys’ team for state in October. fifth place 2025 WaMaC team. Solon’s lone home regular season meet will be September 21 Headlining Solon’s returners is Falyn Svalstad, who just at SRNA with the first race starting at 5:15 (varsity girls). The missed all-state recognition finishing 17th last season in a teams will travel back to Seminole Valley Park for the WaMaC time of 19:11 on the Fort Dodge state meet course leading meet October 14th with a 4:30 start time. Solon to a sixth place team finish. The senior was second at the WaMaC meet as the Lady Spartans finished runner up behind perennial rival Mount Vernon. Other returners include junior Livya Nelson and sophomore Mailee Schmidt who each finished in the top 20 to gain second team WaMaC status in 2025. Junior Addison Seamans was Solon’s second runner at the 2025 state meet finishing 51st in 20:04. Another junior, Kinley Mai, missed most of last season with an injury but could be back as a main contributor by mid-season. She was the second Lady Spartan finisher as a freshman running 20:03 and finishing 50th in 2024. Junior Quinn Armentrout ran fifth for the team at state last season but tore her ACL in basketball this past winter. Her status is questionable. Sophomore Stella Beck was a pleasant surprise last season as Solon’s sixth runner at state and senior Ava Rowles also returns from last year’s state qualifying team. The boys will likely be led by junior Anders Holmes and sophomore Brooks Kabela. Holmes missed out on the state meet last year after qualifying as a freshman and finishing 49th. Kabela fought an injured foot during his entire freshman campaign, but is healthy and coming off a solid track season and summer going as high as 70 miles per week in the first half of August. Both should be contenders for first team WaMaC status in 2026 as only two of the top eight runners return from last season. The Spartans third varsity returner is Deacon Waddell. The junior placed 38th in the WaMaC meet, but also battled
Chris Umscheid | Solon Economist file photos
Above: Falyn Svalstad, Addison Seamans, Mailee Schmidt, and Liv Nelson go full throttle down the short, steep downhill on a sharp S-curve at last year’s season opening meet on the grounds of the Anamosa Middle School. The fabulous foursome returns this season with a No. 3 preseason ranking in Class 3A. Left: Anders Holmes led the Spartans to a sixth place finish with his 7th place showing in 17:23.1 in last season’s Anamosa’s invitational on the campus of the Anamosa Middle School. A junior this year, Holmes is anticipated to be the leader of the varsity boys squad, which returns only two of the top eight runners from last season.
Iowa’s unemployment rate remains at 3.2 percent for the third month Jess Dougherty Iowa Workforce Development
DES MOINES — Iowa’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained at 3.2 percent in July, equal to the rate in May and June and down from a jobless rate of 3.5 percent one year ago. Meanwhile, the U.S. unemployment rate fell to 4.1 percent in July. The total number of unemployed Iowans decreased to 54,700 in July from 55,300 in June. The total number of working Iowans decreased to 1,672,200 in July. This figure is 2,200 lower than June and 3,100 lower than one year ago. The labor force participation rate fell to 67.1 percent in July from 67.3 percent in June, as 2,800 people left the labor force, mostly due to retirements. “Iowa’s July report is largely consistent with what we’ve seen for the last several months,” said Beth Townsend, Executive Director of Iowa Workforce Development. “Most industries showed little change in hiring with a notable exception in construction, which gained 900 jobs. We also saw a significant number of Iowans retiring in July. Between this and 58,000 posted jobs on IowaWORKS.gov, there remain plenty of great career opportunities whether you are looking for your first job or your next one.”
Seasonally adjusted nonfarm employment Firms in Iowa shed 3,100 jobs
in July, lowering total nonfarm employment to 1,583,100. Prior to this month, business establishments had added jobs in four consecutive months, totaling 9,900 jobs. Local government fueled much of the month’s decline (-1,700). A majority of these losses were related to K-12 schools beginning summer break. Private industry was down slightly (-1,000); these losses were within service industries. Goods-producing firms countered with 800 jobs added, breaking two months of losses. Annually, total nonfarm employment is down slightly (-1,800). Within private sectors, construction added the most jobs (+900). Since December, this sector has gained 3,400 jobs. Many of these increases were specialty trade contractors. Accommodation and food services increased by 500 jobs and is up 2,600 since January. Professional, scientific, and technical services gained 400 jobs since June and has added 1,200 jobs since April. As far as losses go, retail trade pared 1,300 jobs in July. This sector previously gained 3,500 jobs in May and June. Annually, job losses are highest among trade and transportation industries (-5,000). Transportation and warehousing industries are responsible for almost half of this loss (-2,400). Trade industries, retail and wholesale combined, have shed 2,600 jobs. Manufacturing is down 2,100 jobs with durable goods factories accounting for most of the loss (-1,700). Professional and business service industries have lost
1,600 jobs since last July. Professional, scientific, and technical services fueled most of this loss (-1,000). On the positive side, health care and social assistance
has added 4,800 jobs over the past 12 months to lead all other sectors. This sector has generally trended upward over the past several years. Construction
followed with 3,300 jobs gained, and finance and insurance added 1,200 jobs. Smaller annual gains were found in private education (+600) and information (+300).
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CALENDAR & PUZZLES
SOLON ECONOMIST | THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2026 | 9
SOLON SENIORS DINING • • • • • • • • • • • • FYI – Senior Dining is funded by donations only. THANK YOU donors for supporting Solon Senior Dining in it’s mission to serve seniors! In-House Dining - Wednesdays only at 11:30 at the Solon Methodist Church and are provided by the Solon Retirement Village Kitchen. Reservations for Wednesday dine-in are required two days in advance of meal by calling 319-624-2251 Mondays 10-11:00 a.m. No meals Tuesdays and Thursdays. Home Deliveries - Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Meals cost $5.00. Call 319-624-2251 for reservations (required) two days in advance of meal.
COLLEGE NEWS Lily Young of Cedar Rapids earns University of Nebraska-Lincoln degree LINCOLN, NE — Lily Anne Young of Cedar Rapids was among 595 graduates who received degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Senior Dining will call clients personally if we need to cancel meals.
AUGUST MENU • • • • • • • Friday, August 28 Lasagna Roll Up Sliced Beets Garlic Toast Brownie Monday, August 31 Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta w/Marinera Sauce Tossed Salad w/Dressing Fresh Fruit during a combined graduate and undergraduate commencement ceremony Aug. 15 at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Young earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the College of Business. The graduates are from 42 countries; 40 U.S. states and Puerto Rico; and 55 Nebraska communities. For the full list of August graduates, visit https://go.unl.edu/grads-aug26.
healthcare professionals. nursing to radiologic Iowa Hospital Association launches ofFrom technology and beyond, healthcareers combine purpose, new Iowa Health Education Portal care opportunity and lifelong learnto connect students with healthcare ing.”The Iowa Health Education Portal is part of IHA’s ongoing education and career pathways commitment to strengthening The Iowa Hospital Association (IHA) today announced the launch of the Iowa Health Education Portal, a new online resource designed to help students, educators and workforce partners explore healthcare education and career pathways in Iowa. The portal was created to support students as they consider future career options and connect them directly with colleges and training programs across the state. The website provides an approachable starting point for those interested in caring for patients, using technology to improve lives or being part of a team that keeps communities healthy. Nursing and radiologic technology are the first careers
Edited by Will Shortz No. 0723
Bingo Wednesdays AM/PM Cards Wednesdays PM
featured on the site, with additional healthcare professions and programs to be added over time. Students can search educational opportunities by program length or type, as well as by location in the state. “Iowa hospitals are focused on building a strong workforce for the future. We know growing that workforce begins by helping students understand the many meaningful and rewarding career opportunities available to them,” said Chris Mitchell, IHA President & CEO. “The Iowa Health Education Portal is designed to connect students, families and educators with information that can support career exploration and inspire the next generation
Iowa’s healthcare workforce and supporting hospitals and health systems as they care for communities across the state. Visit the new website at https://iowahealthedportal. org/.
Across
1 More than just a disapproving look 10 Scruff of the neck 13 Fondita offerings 15 Three-time A.L. M.V.P. of the 2000s, familiarly 16 “The Devil’s radio” 17 Pollution portmanteau 18 Really peeved 19 What a pointless game has? 21 Outfitted 25 Password preceder 26 Former Toyota sports cars named for a Latin prefix 27 Passover month 29 ___-turvy 30 Sprint, e.g. 31 Home run hitter’s gait 35 Downed 36 Part in a play 37 “That’s the spot!” 38 “Tyrone” singer Erykah 40 Not much 41 “Will you let me?” 43 Desert for which an African country is named 45 Like obsidian rock, once 46 Symbol of rebirth in ancient Egypt 49 Last hurrah 51 Trials by fire 53 Wholly, but not holey or holy, e.g.: Abbr. 54 Helen of Troy’s mother 55 Ignominious outcome 61 Tech product discontinued in 2022 62 Proposed cosmological phenomenon that could make up 70% of the universe … and six squares in this puzzle’s grid? 63 Not admit 64 Pottery so named for its hardness
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 20 21 22 23 24 26 28 30 32 33 34 39 40 41 42 44 45 46 47 48 50 52 56 57 58 59 60
Down
Agnus ___ Word after tight or defensive Knee stabilizer, in brief Not just any Attractive feature of a job Single-masted vessels Sweet or sour Podcast interruptions Frequent forecast in Seattle Strong suit? Unleavened South Asian flatbread Follower of double or gilt Champion, as a cause Budding Org. with a list of popular baby names Minimum, in a way Increased Letters before “.gov” Forensic facilities Sign abbr. meaning “founded in” Coffee or tea specification Unleavened South Asian flatbread Sought comfort from, say Like granola Unnamed article Ill-prepared Didn’t stay on topic Come together Lou Gehrig’s disease, for short One level below the majors Infuriate Sphere, e.g. Crinkly fabric Extension Totally bizarre Places to get masks Original N.Y.C. subway line Handful Long stretch Cabinet dept. since 1889 Gospel musician Tribbett
SUDOKU To play: Complete the grid so that every row, column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9. There is no guessing or math involved, just use logic to solve.
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS ON PAGE 2
PUBLIC NOTICES
10 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2026 | SOLON ECONOMIST IowaPublicNotices.com THE JOHNSON COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS FORMAL MEETING MINUTES
AUGUST 13, 2026 Proclamations, ordinances and resolutions adopted by the Board of Supervisors are only summarized in the published minutes; the full text may be inspected at the Office of the County Auditor, 913 S. Dubuque Street, Iowa City, Mon. thru Fri., between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. and at www.johnsoncountyiowa.gov. Chairperson Green called the Johnson County Board of Supervisors to order in the Johnson County Health and Human Services Building Boardroom at 5:30 p.m. Members present: V Fixmer-Oraiz, Jon Green, Lisa Green-Douglass, Mandi Remington, and Rod Sullivan. Green sought and received unanimous consent for approval of the agenda as presented. Public Comment - No one from the public spoke. The Board unanimously agreed to acknowledge correspondence from the public: one message regarding a proposed golf course in Morse. Motion by Sullivan, second by Green-Douglass, to approve the following consent agenda items: 1. The claims on the Johnson County Auditor’s Claim Register for August 13, 2026, in the amount of $1,286,251.83: 425 N Dubuque Res Coop........... $700.00 A Tech Inc.................................. $9093.81 A-G Specialty Insurance............. $759.42 ABC Disposal Sys Inc..................$129.60 Adams Multimedia IA................$1516.39 Advantage Archival Solut..............$10.00 Airgas USA Llc............................ $265.97 Altorfer Inc.................................. $254.43 Amazon Capital Svcs................. $1414.11 Angela Weible-Jones.....................$11.00 Ascend Trucks East IA................ $381.96 Aspen Ventures........................... $750.00 Aureon Communication.............$2527.58 Auto Toyz Llc............................... $200.00 Berry, Dunn, Mcneil & Par...... $10033.01 Binns & Stevens.........................$1315.06 Bound Tree Medical Llc............ $5871.03 Browns West Branch Ford........ $5343.70 Business Radio Sale & Svc..........$274.73 Carahsoft Tech Corp............... $54291.62 CCL Supply.................................. $343.35 Celebration Farm ....................... $250.00 Charm-Tex Inc................................$47.40 Choice It Global Llc..................... $432.03 City Iowa City-Acc Rec.............. $4137.17 City Of North Liberty.................... $70.61 Consumers Coop...................... $3035.16 Coralville Professional Svcs....... $450.00 Corridor Energy Coop................. $463.49 Costar Realty Information........$4338.84 Custom Hose & Supplies............ $426.04 Dash Medical Gloves Llc.......... $1032.75 David Brown.................................... $5.80 David Head.................................... $48.71 David Mellecker.......................... $590.00 Deery Brothers Ford Lincol.........$142.67 Delta Dental IA.......................... $9366.25 Deltawrx Llc.............................$22747.00 Dill Properties Llc....................... $700.00 DKC Real Estate Llc.................... $750.00 Don Franklin Auto...................$40430.00 Dream City...............................$17767.21 Eagle View Properties Llc......... $2000.00 East IA Light & Power....................$19.20 EO Johnson Business Tech...... $2053.81 Farmers Electric Coop.................$267.44 Galls Llc.....................................$1274.64 Gannett IA Localiq.......................$155.24 George Rodney Alberhasky........ $750.00 Golfview Estates Llc................... $750.00 Hands Up Commun................... $1080.00 Hawkeye Weld & Repair............... $22.50 Heartland Shredding Inc............. $230.00 Henry Schein Inc....................... $1355.67 Holiday Wrecker & Crane........... $280.00 Hospers & Brother Printer...........$827.68 Hy-Vee Inc................................... $158.92 IC Housing Group Llc.................. $700.00 IA Emerg Med Svcs Assn......... $2425.00 IA Mun Work Compen Assn... $79564.00 Iowa City Area COC................... $2500.00 Iowa City Regency Mobile.......... $473.00 IA Paper Inc................................. $581.84 IA Valley RC&D..........................$4431.17 IA State Assn Counties..............$1100.00 James C Shaw............................. $850.00 Jeanne A Strand............................ $99.00 John Deere Financial Fsb............ $863.89 Junge Ford.................................$2018.13 JZ Orchard Holdings Llc............. $850.00 Kelly Schneider................................$5.51 Kirkwood Cmty College.................$10.00 Lenovo United States............... $1790.00 Lensing Funeral Svc................. $3850.00 Lexisnexis..................................$1134.00 Lighting Up Language............ $15000.00 Linde Gas & Equipment...............$148.15 Linder Tire Svc Inc.......................$129.95 Linn County............................... $2083.33 Ll Pelling Co.............................. $5400.45 M68 Property Mgmt................... $700.00 Mark'S Auto Body Inc............... $6842.35 Martin Equipment IL....................$187.50 Marys Cleaning Llc................... $2500.00 Medline Industries Inc...............$1172.66 Menards - Iowa City.................... $354.78 Midamerican Energy................. $3026.67 Midwest Janitorial Svc............. $3548.71 Midwest Lift Works Llc............... $703.51 Mms Consultants Inc................ $3500.00 Mobil 1 Lube Express................. $102.92 Motorola Inc...............................$1218.75 Muscatine County Auditor........$6440.00 Napa Auto Parts.......................... $973.07 Neighborhood Centers JC.......$51077.76 Nicole Radunzel.............................$13.05 Noah Thomas...................................$1.45 North Liberty Living Center........ $700.00 Office Express Products............. $105.58 Osterhaus Pharmacy.................. $534.83 Ottsen Oil Co............................. $3541.53 Pace Property Mgmt Inc........... $1350.00 Peak Construction Group......$127802.10 Pestpros...................................... $400.00 Pip Print & Market Srvc................ $85.02 Pitney Bowes Glob Fin Svcs....... $210.84 PowerDMS Inc.......................... $5547.95 Prime Properties......................... $750.00 Psc Distribution...........................$761.00 Relion Inc.................................... $739.00 Rem Properties......................... $1400.00 River Products Co...................$40943.94 Robert W Davison....................... $616.20 S & M East Llc............................. $615.00 Sadler Power Train Inc.................. $32.60 Schneider Geospatial..............$53482.60 Sharon Telephone Comp.......... $1585.38 Shive Hattery Inc.................... $76893.05 South Slope Coop..................... $1006.26 Staples Contract & Commer......$1949.15 Streichers.................................... $269.97
Student Publications Inc.......... $1422.22 Suburban Rentals 2 Llc.............. $700.00 Summit Food Svc Llc..............$25668.33 Sunrise Village Llc...................... $672.00 Sweeney Court Reporting.......... $229.95 Sycamore Apartments................ $800.00 T-Mobile USA Inc.......................... $50.00 Tasha Ray.................................... $300.00 Teleflex Llc................................ $1250.00 The Kalona News.......................$1458.16 Tom Furlong................................ $850.00 Tricon General Construction.. $54240.28 Tripspark Tech............................. $370.22 TriStar........................................$4292.17 United Healthcare........................$623.11 United States Postal Svc............ $464.00 University of Iowa................. $152546.00 US Cellular...................................$136.62 Van Meter Industrial Inc............. $560.76 Verizon Wireless......................... $240.06 Visa..........................................$17596.19 Washington County................ $27660.00 Wellmark BCBS IA................ $247000.00 West Liberty Telephone.............. $658.48 Westwood Pharmacy.................$1377.68 Whispering Garden IHA.............. $850.00 William Perry Jr.......................... $600.00 2. The minutes of the Formal Meeting for August 6, 2026. 3. Payroll authorizations submitted by department heads and elected officials. Approved unanimously. Convened a public hearing at 5:32 p.m. on Zoning Application REZ26000003 of Brandon Pratt, requesting rezoning of 18.22 acres from CH - Highway Commercial to R-Residential. The property is located at 3036 Highway 1 NE, in the NW 1/4 of the NW 1/4 of Section 30, Township 80 North, Range 5 West of the 5th P.M. in Newport Township, Johnson County, Iowa. Johnson County Planning, Development, and Sustainability (PDS) Planner Joseph Wilensky reviewed the application. John Marner of MMS Consultants, Inc., was present to answer questions. County resident Julie Eisele spoke about concerns with the application, including potential traffic and safety issues if access were provided from Fox Lane NE and the amount of timber that could be removed. Wilensky noted the proposed access would not be from Fox Lane NE and that the proposed development includes a large portion of the property as conservation easement and protected sensitive areas. Public hearing closed at 5:42 p.m. Motion by Remington, second by Sullivan, to waive the requirement of three considerations before approving an ordinance amending the Johnson County Unified Development Ordinance, Zoning Application REZ26-000003 of Brandon Pratt. Roll call: Aye: Fixmer-Oraiz, Green, Green-Douglass, Remington, Sullivan. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Sullivan, to approve the proposed ordinance associated with Zoning Application Zoning Application REZ26000003 of Brandon Pratt on first and second consideration. Roll call: Aye: Fixmer-Oraiz, Green, Green-Douglass, Remington, Sullivan. Convened a public hearing at 5:44 p.m. on Subdivision Application SD26000008 of Robert W Howe, requesting preliminary & final plat approval of Howe Woods. The property is located at 2284 Sugar Bottom Road NE, in the SW 1/4 of the NW 1/4 of Section 3 and in the SE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of Section 4, all in Township 80 North, Range 6 West of the 5th P.M. in Newport Township, Johnson County, Iowa. Johnson County PDS Assistant Planner Jess Brooks reviewed the application. Scott Ritter of Hart-Frederick Consultants P.C. was present to answer questions. No one from the public spoke. Public hearing closed at 5:46 p.m. RESOLUTION NO. 08-13-26-01 RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PRELIMINARY AND FINAL PLAT AND SUBDIVIDER'S AGREEMENT OF HOWE WOODS, JOHNSON COUNTY, IOWA Summary: Application SD26-000008 was filed for approval of the preliminary and final plat of Howe Woods and the County Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed the application and recommends the plat be approved. Board action: Approve the plat; Director the chairperson to sign the plat and all associated documents; Record the following documents: A. Resolution & Documents: Sensitive Areas Exhibit, Owners Certificate, Opinion of Attorney, Certificate of County Auditor, Certificate of County Treasurer, Subdivider’s Agreement, Consent to Platting, Grant of Easement for Public Road Purposes, Conservation Easement Agreement-Subdivision, Protective Covenants and Restrictions, Resolution Affirming the Stability of the Road System; B. Subdivision Plat (5). Motion by Remington, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to approve Resolution No. 0813-26-01. Approved unanimously. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve the agreement with Shelter House Community Shelter & Transition Services, Iowa City, granting funds for eviction diversion services in an amount not to exceed $100,000. Approved unanimously. Motion by Green-Douglass, second by Sullivan, to approve the job description for the new position of Accounts Payable Specialist in the Johnson County Auditor’s Office, effective August 13, 2026. Approved unanimously. Motion by Sullivan, second by Green-Douglass, to recommend Becky Sue Powell-Renneckar be appointed to the North Liberty Library Board of Trustees to fill a vacancy of a three-year term expiring June 30, 2029. Approved unanimously. Motion by Green-Douglass, second by Sullivan, to approve initiating the construction manager-at-risk (CMAR) selection process and issuing a disclosure of intent to enter into a guaranteed maximum price contract for constructing a new Johnson County Sheriff's Office and Jail facility. Motion approved 3-2, with Fixmer-Oraiz and Remington voting nay. Adjourned at 6:05 p.m. /s/Jon Green, Chair, Johnson County Board of Supervisors Attest: /s/Julie Persons, Johnson County Auditor
On the 20th day of August, 2026 Recorded by Auditor’s Office: Marly Melsh, Executive Clerk to the Board
These minutes were sent for formal approval and publication on August 20, 2026. Published in the Solon Economist August 27, 2026.
THE JOHNSON COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS WORK SESSION MINUTES
AUGUST 12, 2026 Proclamations, ordinances and resolutions adopted by the Board of Supervisors are only summarized in the published minutes; the full text may be inspected at the Office of the County Auditor, 913 S. Dubuque Street, Iowa City, Mon. thru Fri., between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. and at www.johnsoncountyiowa.gov. Chairperson Green called the Johnson County Board of Supervisors to order in the Johnson County Health and Human Services Building Boardroom at 9:00 a.m. Members present: V Fixmer-Oraiz, Jon Green, Lisa Green-Douglass, and Mandi Remington. Members absent: Rod Sullivan (arrived at 9:26 a.m.). Green sought and received unanimous consent for approval of the agenda as presented. Public Comment - Dr. Emerson Cram of Iowa City spoke about an interaction with Sullivan while volunteering for the County Disability Advisory Committee at the County Historic Poor Farm (HPF) open house. Cram said Sullivan approached, interrupted, raised their voice, and berated them about remarks Cram made during public comment at a recent Work Session, leaving Cram visibly shaken. Cram said their remarks reflected research conducted according to professional and ethical standards and called on County leadership to support intellectual freedom, good-faith dialogue, and respectful disagreement. County resident Ryan Swenka read comments from Allison Bywater, who described a pattern of personal, belittling, and intimidating responses by Sullivan toward community members who challenge them. Bywater cited their own experience raising methodological concerns during public comment about a publicly funded study, when Sullivan attempted to discredit their concerns. Bywater said the interactions reflect a broader pattern and called on the Board to address Sullivan’s behavior. Bywater suggested the County consider a pledge outlining conduct expectations for elected officials. County resident Tara McGovern called on the Board to address mistreatment of intellectuals in the community and noted that voters previously responded to similar behavior with their votes. McGovern also criticized the County’s presentation of the proposed jail project, saying its website emphasizes the current facility’s inadequacies without providing comparable information about project costs, repayment terms, or the scope of the proposed County Sheriff’s Office portion of the project. McGovern said the website presents advocacy rather than education. Green-Douglass said they wanted to speak as a member of the public. She said as an intellectual in the community she understands that questioning research findings is part of academic discourse. Green-Douglass described being at the HPF open house and said Sullivan told them they intended to speak with Cram about their recent remarks. Green-Douglass said they were nearby and did not hear yelling during the interaction. They later asked Sullivan what Cram had said and Sullivan told them Cram did not say much. Green-Douglass resumed their role as Supervisor. Fixmer-Oraiz said they wanted to speak as a member of the public. They addressed the Board’s responsibility to hold elected officials accountable for how they treat community members. They referenced recent action by the Coralville City Council regarding resident concerns about the Mayor’s treatment of its citizens and urged the Board to consider similar accountability. Fixmer-Oraiz apologized to Cram and said intimidation does not require yelling. They said elected officials should remain accountable for how they treat the public. They resumed their role as Supervisor. Malik Salsberry of Iowa City said he attended the HPF open house but did not witness the interaction. He said he wanted a related email exchange between Sullivan and an individual who witnessed and intervened in the interaction entered into the public record. Salsberry said Sullivan called individuals account a blatant lie. Salsberry called this unprofessional. Sue Dvorsky of Coralville called for a return to a presumption of good faith in conversations among Board members, community members, and other leaders. Dvorsky said the level of discourse has become increasingly strained and urged people to listen, pause, and seek common ground rather than assume bad faith. County Treasurer Scott Finlayson thanked County Board Office Executive Director Erin Shane and Administrative Assistant Jill Wenger for their work to improve the property tax suspension process and ensure compliance with Iowa Code. He said the County now has a seamless system and procedure that better serves residents. Green stated that, going forward, public comments should be directed to the Chairperson rather than other individuals in the Boardroom and that Supervisors wishing to speak as citizens during public comment should do so from the podium rather than the dais. Recessed at 9:21 a.m.; reconvened at 9:26 a.m. Proposed Resolution - Suspend Collection of the 2025 Property Taxes for Parcel No. 0311376009 Shane presented the proposed resolution suspending collection of the 2025 property taxes for Johnson County Parcel No. 0311376009, owned by Jeanne M. Robertson of Swisher. She noted approval would bring the County’s active property tax suspension cases to eight for 2026. Initiating CMAR Selection Process and Issuing a Disclosure of Intent to Enter into a Guaranteed Maximum Price Contract for Constructing a New County Sheriff’s Office and Jail Facility County Special Projects Manager Me-
lissa Robert said initiating the construction manager-at-risk (CMAR) selection process does not obligate the County to see this process through. Robert noted Shive-Hattery is handling much of the documentation. Shane said the work continues the effort already underway by County Staff to prepare the proposed project for the ballot. Green said the Board approved the Shive-Hattery contract amendment with the understanding that County staff would provide the necessary resources. Green and Robert confirmed the CMAR process is included in the contract. Strategic Plan Update Shane anticipated the final Strategic Plan will be complete within the next week, and County leadership is working on implementation plans. State & Federal Legislative Issues, Including Updates on the Urban County Coalition (UCC), pending Legislation Affecting the County, and Representation of County & Supervisor Positions Green anticipated receiving a date for annual UCC meeting soon but had no updates to report. Operational Issues of the Board of Supervisors Office County Board Office Community Engagement & Policy Coordinator Paola Jaramillo Guayara said the County will host a Welcoming Week Resource Fair on September 16 from 5:00–7:00 p.m. She said vendors need time to set up and requested closing the employee parking lot outside the County Administration Building by 3:30 p.m New Agenda Item Requests from Supervisors Fixmer-Oraiz proposed amending the Johnson County Human Rights Ordinance to add a definition of sex stereotyping. Board members discussed the proposed timeline which will include Board discussion of the matter during next week’s Work Session meeting. Closed Session - Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Remington, to enter into a closed session at 9:48 a.m., to evaluate the professional competency of an individual whose appointment, hiring, performance, or discharge is being considered. Evaluation will take place in closed session, pursuant to Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(i), when necessary to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual’s reputation and that individual requests a closed session. 1. Collective Bargaining Agreement - Step 3 Grievance. Roll call: Aye: Fixmer-Oraiz, Green, Green-Douglass, Remington, Sullivan. Green adjourned the closed session at 9:55 a.m. Motion by Sullivan, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to approve the letter drafted by the Board Chair regarding the Collective Bargaining Agreement Step 3 grievance decision from the July 30 Formal Meeting closed session, for delivery to the parties in the controversy. Roll call: Aye: Fixmer-Oraiz, Green, Green-Douglass, Remington, Sullivan. Adjourned at 9:56 a.m. /s/Jon Green, Chair, Johnson County Board of Supervisors Attest: /s/Julie Persons, Johnson County Auditor
On the 20th day of August, 2026 Recorded by Auditor’s Office: Marly Melsh, Executive Clerk to the Board These minutes were sent for formal approval and publication on August 20, 2026. Published in the Solon Economist August 27, 2026.
SOLON TRI-TOWNSHIP EMERGENCY RESPONSE AGENCY
AUGUST 12, 2026 Chairman Ryan Hajek called the Agency meeting to order at 6 pm, of the Solon Tri-Township Agency, with a Roll Call: Dan O’Neil, Ryan Hajek, Jim Sedlacek and Jerry Serbousek. Motion by Sedlacek to approve the August 12, 2026 Agenda. Seconded by Serbousek. All Ayes. Motion Carried. 4-0. Citizen Speak: None Clerk’s Report: Motion by Serbousek to approve April 8, 2026 meeting minutes. Seconded by O’Neil. All Ayes. Motion Carried. 4-0. Motion by Serbousek to approve the bill list. Seconded by Sedlacek. All Ayes. Motion Carried. 4-0. Treasurer’s Report: Serbousek went over account amounts with the board and discussed purchasing a CD. He questioned when the next new truck payment would be with chief Siddell stated it would be in 2027 Fire Chief’s Report: Siddell stated it has been another busy year with having 408 calls for service in 2026 so far. In April they had 36 calls for service, May 58 calls for service, June 63 calls for service, July 59 calls for service and as of today for August 27 calls for service. Hajek questioned membership on the department at this time, Siddell stated at this time there are 28 members. Chief Siddell stated they had their state inspection with EMS which they had passed their inspection, they also had hose testing in April which they also passed. Chief Siddell stated at this time they are short hose, they will be ordering some which will also include hose for the new truck, they will also be needing to order turn out gear which is at an approximate cost of $4000.00 for each set. Discussion was had of selling the old engine once the new one comes in, with Chief Siddell stating they will be putting it out there at the end of the year. Chief Siddell stated at the previous Johnson County Mutual Aid Association meeting that a Johnson County Firefighter assisted with the State Fire Marshal’s Office and had helped with a survey in four counties – Black Hawk, Linn, Johnson and Scott counties on the tax levies and budgets. He has been involved with and been talking with the state legislatures about possible changing the amount that departments can levy. It has sounded like there was support with the state legislatures looking into it. Chief Siddell stated they are still waiting on the access pointes for the sta-
tion and starting August 17, 2026 Morse Road will be closed until approximately the end of November 2026 weather permitting, they will be replacing the bridge going into Morse. New Business: Clerk Agreement 2026-2027. Motion by O’Neil to approve the 2026-2027 Agency Clerk Agreement with the City of Solon. Seconded by Serbousek. Roll Call Vote: O’Neil, Serbousek, Sedlacek and Hajek. All Ayes. Motion Carried. 4-0. The next meeting date will be November 10, 2026 at 6pm Motion to adjourn by Sedlacek at 6:45 pm. Seconded by Serbousek. All Ayes. Motion Carried. 4-0. ATTEST Susie Siddell, Clerk Dan O’Neil, Secretary Published in the Solon Economist August 27, 2026.
SOLON COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT REGULAR BOARD MEETING MINUTES
08/20/2026 05:45 PM Attendance Voting Members Dan Coons, School Board President Dr. Tim Brown, School Board Vice President Adam Haluska, School Board Member Cassie Rochholz, School Board Member Megan Laing, School Board Member Non-Voting Members Dr. Davis Eidahl, Superintendent Natalie Johnson, Business Services Manager & Board Secretary Brady Miller, SBO & Board Treasurer Piper Johnson, Student Board Representative I. Call to Order and Roll Call II. Pledge of Allegiance III. Welcome of Visitors and Representatives of the Press IV. Celebrations of Achievement Extended school year summer events presentation from Dr. Lyons and 2027 school year opening day celebration. V. District Reports 1. Focus On Learning Student Board Representative Piper Johnson, presented on the Best Buddies Conference in Indiana that she attended. 2. Admin Report(s) Dr. Lyons presented on the AI committee that is comprised of staff from all buildings and the work they are putting in to navigate AI in the district. Board Treasurer, Brady Miller, presented on the district capital project and SAVE fund balance. VI. Board Committee Update 1. Strategic Plan (Rochholz, Coons) Director Rochholz presented what she learned from the legislative session. 2. Capital Projects (Brown, Haluska) Lakeview renovation is moving along. The indoor facility prefabricated building will be delivered mid September. 3..F inancial Services (Haluska, Laing) Looking to meet monthly with SBO, Brady Miller. 4. Governance (Rochholz, Laing) VII. Consent Agenda Items Motion to approve the consent agenda items as presented. Motion made by: Adam Haluska Motion seconded by: Dr. Tim Brown Voting results: Unanimously Approved 1. Approval of Minutes 2. Approval of Claims 3. Financial Report 4. Overnight Field Trip(s): 5. Contracts 6. Fundraising Requests VIII. Action Items 1. Second Reading of Board Policies Motion to approve the second reading of board polices, as presented Motion made by: Dr. Tim Brown Motion seconded by: Adam Haluska Voting results: Unanimously Approved 2. Board Policy 504.06 (8th Grade Eligibility) Motion to move board policy 504.06 back to the governance committee to gather more information, as presented Motion made by: Dr. Tim Brown Motion seconded by: Adam Haluska Voting results: Unanimously Approved 3. Naming of Indoor Facility Motion to approve the Spartan Field House as the name of the new Solon Indoor facility, as presented. Motion made by: Megan Laing Motion seconded by: Cassie Rochholz Voting results: Yes: Dan Coons No: Dr. Tim Brown Yes: Adam Haluska Yes: Cassie Rochholz Yes: Megan Laing 4. Landscaping bids for Lakeview Motion to approve the landscaping bid from Culvers Landscaping for $43,075.45 for Lakeview, as presented. Motion made by: Adam Haluska Motion seconded by: Dr. Tim Brown Voting results: Unanimously Approved IX. Information Items 1. Central Office Project Central office project bid discussion with Landon Burg from OPN architects, the Capital Project committee will review the bids and report back to the board. 2. Open Night Exceptions Open night exceptions that were made in the 2025-2026 school year. X. Talking Points Director Rochholz liked Piper's Best Buddies and the ESY presentations and how we have made students feel included and give them opportunities to learn and grow. Director Haluska touched on the finances in the district and appreciates the hard work the district administration takes when spending the district tax dollars. Director Laing talked about the 504.06 board policy and is happy coaches are putting students first. Vice-President Brown welcomed the new staff for the 2027 school year. Student Representative Piper is happy the district is embracing AI and navigating through it and has a plan since it isn't going anywhere. President Coons reflects on the important things and feels blessed to be a
SOLONECONOMIST.COM part of this board, from the financial to the well-being of our students and excited to start another school year. XI. Next Regular Board Meeting The next regular board meeting is September 17, 2026 at 5:45pm in the Central Office Board Room. XII. Adjournment A motion was made to adjourn the meeting. Time 7:37 p.m. Motion made by: Dr. Tim Brown Motion seconded by: Adam Haluska Voting results: Unanimously Approved Published in the Solon Economist August 27, 2026.
SOLON COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BILLS THROUGH 08/20/2026
Ace Hardware Misc maintenance supplies................................................. 70.55 Acme, Tools Wood Shop Supplies ......... ....................................................3,415.65 Ahlers and Cooney, PC Professional Services...............................................142.00 Alliant Energy Electricity......... 58,164.48 Alphagraphics letters..................... 45.68 Amazon Capital Services preschool table ................................................... 1,836.51 Amplify Education, Inc Math License...... ..................................................11,950.00 Apple Inc SEF grant award .......... 345.00 Ascendance Truck Centers fiters............. ...................................................... 453.82 Assurity Life Insurance Company Accident and Critical Illness............. 4,626.52 Auto-Jet Muffler Corp pipe, clamps, mufflers......................................... 795.21 Baker Paper Co Inc Misc custodial supplies................................................156.30 Bartlett, Joanna Non-Public transportation............................................. 1,276.04 Business Radio Sales and Services INC Bus radio..................................... 1,134.70 Cedar Rapids Comm School SPED OE 2nd Semester............................ 49,151.62 Central Iowa Distributing Inc Part for scrubbers...................................... 402.00 Character Strong Curriculum License...... ....................................................7,495.00 City of Solon Utilities................. 4,049.05 Citywide Cleaners band uniforms............ ...................................................... 665.82 Covenant Workplace Solutions, LLC Employee Assistance Program...........412.68 D&R Pest Control Pest control..... 453.60 Delta Dental Of Iowa Vision....... 4,368.62 Demco Inc Shelving.......................128.25 Department Of Administrative Services TSA Annual adminstration fee...... 700.00 Department of Inspections, Appeals & Licensing Boiler Inspection all buildings. ...................................................... 280.00 Diane Sweeney Consulting Student Centered Coaching.............................. 395.00 Edmentum, Inc Course................. 295.00 Emerson Specialty Hardware&Locksmithing Keys made......................179.65 Flinn Scientific Inc Science materials...... ...................................................... 146.85 Frerich, Jessica Non-Public Transportation............................................. 1,276.04 Gazette Communications, Inc advertising...............................................1,166.67 Gerlits, Vince boots pants............110.00 Goodheart-Willcox Publisher Health Curri................................................. 8,081.55 Grant Wood AEA Literacy Consulting per Contract................................... 39,835.50 Hack, Casey Phone Reimbursement....... ........................................................ 65.00 Harrys Custom Trophies Ltd Name Plate BOE.....................................................9.50 Hawkeye Fire & Safety Company Fire extinguisher inspections............... 3,093.00 Heinemann Publishing Textbooks............ ..................................................15,612.27 Heinsius, Bryan Phone Reimbursement ........................................................ 65.00 Hillyard Des Moines Misc custodial supplies.......................................... 18,459.91 Home Depot Pro, The Misc custodial supplies......................................... 645.98 HWZ LLC/RJ'Z Express Fuel..... 2,338.82 Interstate All Battery Center Misc maintenance supplies.........................1,518.98 Iowa ASBO Fall Conference.......... 290.00 Iowa Communications Network Network services......................................... 759.39 Johnston Community School District OE Sped......................................... 14,498.95 Kessler, Randall Mowing Stone Academy...................................................150.00 Kirkwood Community College Tuition..... ................................................. 73,434.98 Klein, Krissa Grad Class Reimb............... ................................................... 1,860.00 Kluesner Construction Repairs..1,140.00 La Porte Motor Supply (Carquest of Lisbon) Parts..................................... 642.87 Lexia Voyager Sopris Language Live....... ................................................... 1,044.00 Linder Tire Service tires.............2,211.58 Lynch Ford-Mt Vernon, Inc Parts............. .......................................................154.81 Magic School Magic School Plus Yearly ...................................................... 999.60 Marco Technologies, LLC Printer/Copier Lease.......................................... 1,963.56 Marco Technologies, LLC Copier/Printer Lease.......................................... 1,254.55 Mcgraw-Hill LLC Everyday Math............. ............................................... 145,594.00 Menards Supplies...................... 2,952.85 Mercy Physician Associates- Prairie Creek Emp Physical...................... 375.00 Midwest Wheel Companies wipers.......... .......................................................419.87 Mizaur, Russell Phone Reimbursement ........................................................ 65.00 Nebraska Air Filters Misc maintenance supplies..........................................273.72 North Liberty True Value Misc maintenance supplies................................ 92.03 P&K Midwest hardware...................18.99 Pipe Pro Inc HVAC reapirs..........2,697.62 Quality Care Lawn Lawn Care... 3,294.01 Quizizz. Inc Wayground School Dist Plan ................................................... 3,726.00 Reliance Standard Life Insurance Company Life/ADD/LTD, Vol Life, April........... ................................................... 3,052.65 Renaissance Fast Bridge Renewal........... ....................................................2,007.50 RevTrak Processing Fee............ 1,993.65 Sam's Main Street Market Misc custodial supplies............................................14.83 Savvas Learning Company LLC Savvas contract renewal.........................4,185.00 School Administrators Of Iowa Conference............................................... 235.00 School Bus Sales shocks, motor.. 989.07 School Fix Catalog Misc maintenance supplies......................................... 259.68 Schumacher Elevators Quarterly Elevator Maintenance..........................2,911.80 SCI Communications Door access repairs at MS.....................................657.99
SOLONECONOMIST.COM Sherwin Williams Misc maintenance supplies..........................................113.80 Sled Shed, Inc., The Wire harness.......... .........................................................89.51 Solon Hardware Misc maintenance supplies............................................... 203.25 South Slope Coop Telephone Co Phone service.........................................1,255.10 South Tama High School WAMAC Law Fee................................................. 344.37 Student Publications, Inc Solon Economist................................................ 874.13 Summit Companies Annual sprinkler inspection......................................3,807.00 T.F.H (USA) Ltd SEF Grant......... 1,576.00 Terry-Durin Company Misc maintenance supplies......................................... 279.80 TransAct Communications, LLC EZ Routing....................................... 4,784.00 US AutoForce klever tires............. 505.72 Visa Smore Renewal.................. 2,535.79 Wellmark Blue Cross & Blue Shield Of Ia August Health Ins.................. 108,264.62
PUBLIC NOTICES/NEWS
West Music Co Music................... 878.90 Zaner Bloser Educational Publ Textbooks ...................................................... 454.85 General Fund.......................... 648,001.21 CNA Surety Surety Bond, Board Treasurer....................................................621.25 Emc Insurance Company Insurance......... ............................................... 610,790.00 Management Levy Fund......... 611,411.25 City of Solon Engineering Fee Solon Indoor............................................ 1,060.00 Larson Construction Co., Inc. CP, Lakeview Renovations......................642,613.10 OPN Architects, Inc Architect.................. ................................................. 29,802.97 Watts Group, LLC Spartan Fieldhouse..... ..................................................74,612.20 Capital Projects ..................... 748,088.27 Apptegy, Inc Website renewal... 9,475.96 BlueAlly Technology Solutions, LLC BO Computer................................... 1,999.00 C&C Auto Works LLC 2023 Transit Van... ................................................. 38,956.00
Kluesner Construction Re-Striping SIS... ................................................... 3,000.00 PPEL UMB Bank, N.A. Banking Fees, Bonds......................................... 1,700.00 Debt Service Fund...................... 1,700.00 Amazon Capital Services Volleyball supplies............................................... 355.94 AndyMark Inc. Robotics supplies............ .......................................................425.18 Aspi Solutions Inc Card readers............... ....................................................1,047.00 Company Store/Kor-Lin Emproidery MS Softball jerseys............................... 48.00 Delgado, Matthew Post Season worker.. .......................................................160.00 Elite Sports Volleyball practice shirts...... ................................................... 1,984.50 First Lego League registration and supplies................................................410.00 Hale, Tiffany Football Cheer Shirts......... ...................................................... 325.00 HWZ LLC/RJ'Z Express Pizza ....... 65.96 Inter-state Studio & Publishing Co Pass
printing supplies............................. 94.36 Iowa Association of Track Coaches Annual Fee........................................... 60.00 Iowa City Athletic Officials Association 2026 ICAOA Baseball/Softball scheduling................................................. 200.00 Iowa Girls' High School Athletic Union Post Season Softball ticket sales............. ...................................................... 240.00 Iowa High School Athletic Assn Post season Baseball ticket sales..........715.00 Jefferson High School Marching Band entry fee.........................................175.00 Johnson, Piper Post Season worker....... ...................................................... 200.00 Johnson, Tripp Post Season worker....... ........................................................ 50.00 Leimkuehler, Jodi Concessions Start Up ...................................................... 500.00 Linn Mar High School Bands Marching Band Entry Fee...............................175.00 McCormicks Group color guard flags...... .................................................... 1,754.14
SOLON ECONOMIST | THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2026 | 11 Monticello Sports Soccer Goals.............. ................................................... 3,445.00 Mount Vernon Community School District Marching Band entry fee .......100.00 Prairie High School-Music Association Marching Band entry fee ..............175.00 RevTrak AF process fee................ 256.05 Seagren, Scott Post Season worker....... ...................................................... 265.00 Stiegelmeyer, Scott Post Season worker ...................................................... 225.00 Visa Cheer Coach Course............... 80.00 West Music Co Music....................638.74 Student Activity Fund...............14,169.87 Aero Rental Carnival Day........... 1,430.40 Anderson Erickson Dairy Co Milk............. ...................................................... 733.40 Feaker, Amber Cell Phone Reimb.. 65.00 Lost Island Waterpark Field Trip.............. ....................................................8,439.11 Reliance Standard Life Insurance Company Life/ADD/LTD, Vol Life, April..14.76 Sam's Main Street Market lunch.. 102.44
Solbergs beef days shirts.......... 3,873.80 Solon Hardware supply .................. 11.97 Super Skate trip............................ 864.00 US Foods, Inc Iowa meals/snack............. ................................................... 5,899.78 Visa Beef Days ...........................5,040.17 BASP........................................ 26,474.83 Reliance Standard Life Insurance Company Life/ADD/LTD, Vol Life, April........... ........................................................ 28.36 Regular Ed Preschool Kirkwood Community College Scholarship ........... 1,300.00 University of Iowa Scholarship ... 300.00 University Of Northern Iowa Scholarship ...................................................... 300.00 Fiduciary Scholarship Trust ..... 1,900.00 Pipe Pro Inc LV Salad Cooler.......1,107.12 Reliance Standard Life Insurance Company Life/ADD/LTD, Vol Life, April........... ........................................................ 52.34 Nutrition Fund.............................1,159.46 Published in the Solon Economist August 27, 2026
Secretary Naig announces Honor Harvest Food Box program connecting Iowa veterans with Choose Iowa members Partnership between Choose Iowa, VHA Office of Rural Health, and Field to Family Food Hub will provide weekly boxes of Iowa-grown food to eligible veterans Don McDowell Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship DES MOINES — Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig has announced the launch of Honor Harvest, a new food box program that will connect eligible Iowa Veterans with fresh, locally grown food sourced exclusively from Choose Iowa members as part of an innovative Food is Medicine pilot project. Honor Harvest is a collaboration between the U.S. Veterans Health Administration’s Office of Rural Health, Iowa City VA Health Care System, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship's Choose Iowa program, and Field to Family Food Hub. The pilot is designed to improve access to healthy food for rural Iowa Veterans living with diet-related chronic health conditions while creating new market opportunities for Iowa farmers and food businesses. “Honor Harvest creates a meaningful new
connection between Iowa veterans and Iowa farmers,” said Secretary Naig. “Good food is essential to wellness and healthy living, and this partnership will provide veterans with greater access to fresh, wholesome and nutritious food grown and raised right here in Iowa. At the same time, it creates new market opportunities for the family farms and food businesses that are Choose Iowa members. It’s Iowa farmers helping to serve Iowa veterans while supporting healthier lives and creating new market opportunities for Iowa agriculture.” “The Iowa City VA Medical Center Honor Harvest program builds on prior work from the VHA Office of Rural Health to help address the nutritional needs of rural Veterans,” said Peter Kaboli, MD, Executive Director, Veterans Health Administration Office of Rural Health. “Our goal is to further develop this collaborative model that supports both rural Veterans and the agricultural communities in which they live.” “We are proud to be a part of this initiative! This project highlights the best of Iowa - showcasing our commitment to our community and Veterans while investing in Iowa food and farm enterprises,” said Michelle Kenyon, Executive Director of the Field to Family Food Hub. “Finding innovative ways to expand access to local foods is a top priority for Field to Family. As a food hub focused on cultivating a resilient community-based food system, partnering with local farmers to foster connections within the community is essential. The collaboration established
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between Field to Family, Choose Iowa and Veterans Health Administration Office of Rural Health will improve access to locally grown and produced foods, paving the way for greater opportunities to support a more resilient and sustainable food system.” “The Honor Harvest program reflects our commitment to keeping Veterans at the center as we explore new ways to support their health and well-being,” said Iowa City VA Health Care System Interim Executive Director Heath Streck. “We are proud to serve as the pilot site and grateful for the collaboration that will connect Veterans with fresh, locally produced foods.” The innovative pilot will be implemented through the White Team Primary Care Clinic at the Iowa City VA Medical Center. The food boxes will be offered to eligible rural Iowa Veterans receiving care through the Iowa City VA who live with medical conditions significantly impacted by diet, including hypertension, hyperlipidemia, Type 2 diabetes and obesity. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is providing $24,000 to purchase fresh, locally grown produce, meat and dairy products from Choose Iowa members. Field to Family Food Hub will source, curate, aggregate, store, package and distribute the food boxes. A total of 40 eligible Veterans will receive a weekly box of Iowa-grown food at the Iowa City VA Medical Center throughout the 7-week program. Honor Harvest leverages Iowa's agricultural resources to improve veteran
2026 Iowa State Fair 4-H results Static/Clothing Event/$20 Challenge – Madison Singbeil, Macbride’s Pride (MP), Participation ribbon Communication/Educational Presentations/Saturday, August 15 – Madison Singbeil, MP, “Why 4-H Matters,” Excellence Dairy Cattle/Guernsey/Fall Heifer Calf – born Sept. 1, 2025-Nov. 30, 2025 – Peyton Recker, Graham Champions (GC), Blue ribbon Dairy Cattle/Guernsey/Junior 3-year old Cow – born March 1, 2023-August 31, 2023 – Kaden Recker (GC),
health by connecting locally grown foods with Veterans who may benefit most from increased access to nutritious produce and proteins. By combining the strength of Iowa agriculture with innovative health care partnerships, the pilot demonstrates how locally grown food can improve health outcomes while supporting Iowa farmers, food businesses and rural communities. About Choose Iowa Choose Iowa is the state's signature branding and marketing program for Iowa-grown, Iowa-raised and Iowa-made food, beverages and agricultural products. Initiated by Secretary Mike Naig and administered by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, the program supports Iowa farmers, small businesses and communities by expanding market opportunities, strengthening local food systems and helping consumers identify and purchase locally produced products. Choose Iowa now includes nearly 360 members across the state. About the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship advocates for Iowa’s farmers and protects consumers, animals, our food supply and our shared soil and water resources. Our programs strengthen rural communities, support a thriving agriculture economy, and build a stronger future for all Iowans.
Guernsey Reserve Grand Champion, Guernsey Senior Reserve Champion, Purple ribbon, 1st place Beef/Market Beef/Hereford – Emily Pence, MP, Red ribbon, 1st Place Beef/Market Beef/Crossbred Steers – Lane Steinbrech, GC, Blue ribbon Sheep/Breeding Sheep/Black Face Commercial Ewes – Autumn Miller, GC, Blue ribbon Sheep/Market Sheep/Speckled Face/Cross Market Lambs – Autumn Miller, GC, Blue ribbon Sheep/Market Sheep/Black Face Market Lambs – Autumn Miller, GC, Purple ribbon
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12 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2026 | SOLON ECONOMIST
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Solon’s Gilroy among thirteen Young Leaders who graduated from summer training program Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council DES MOINES — Students from across Iowa have officially completed the Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council’s (Iowa DD Council) Youth Leadership Academy (YLA), a weeklong summer program designed to help young people with disabilities build confidence, strengthen leadership skills, and connect with peers statewide. YLA is a free, virtual training for youth and young adults ages 14–21. Over the course of 10 hours, participants learn how to become leaders, advocate for themselves and others, and recognize what they are capable of achieving. The program also helps students grow lifelong skills such as goal setting, networking, mentoring, selfdetermination, disability rights, and civic engagement. This year’s graduates were honored during a ceremony hosted at the Blank Park Zoo. They also put their leadership skills into action by participating in a day of service and helping with The Arc of Iowa’s “Hear Us Roar” Disability Pride celebration. “Congratulations to the 2026 Youth Leadership Academy graduates,” says Iowa DD Council Executive Director Brooke Lovelace. “These students showed tremendous dedication and growth throughout the program. Their leadership journeys are just beginning, and we are excited to see what they accomplish next.”
2026 Youth Leadership Academy Graduates - Autumn Boyd – Waukee, Ashlyn Brokaw – Creston, Jackson Byler – West Des Moines, Andrew Fallon – Chicago, IL, Liam Gilroy – Solon, Aubree Hendrickson – Ankeny, Claire Neuenschwander – Cedar Rapids, Rosemary "Hallie" Nolte – Coralville, Layla Nore – Duncombe, James O. Thacker – Des Moines, Lawrence E. Thacker Jr. – Des Moines, Benjamin Villegas – Knoxville, Ashlee Wyma – Sully, IA
NEWS FROM IOWA STATE EXTENSION
Iowa DD Council contributed photo
(From left) James Thacker, Autumn Boyd, Benny Villegas, Aubree Hendrickson, Claire Neuenschwander, Liam Gilroy, Jackson Byler, Ashlyn Brokaw, Larry Thacker, Layla Nore, and Hallie Nolte
This year’s program was sponsored by Access R ights Iowa, and Iowa’s Universit y Center 2 Independence, ASK Resource Center, the Iowa for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Developmental Disabilities Council, Disability (UCEDD).
Iowa landowners asked to help track monarch migration this fall AMES — Iowa landowners are being asked to help document the remarkable monarch migration as thousands of butterflies make their journey south to Mexico this fall. Researchers with the Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium (IMCC) ask for assistance to identify areas where monarchs rest in clusters, like trees and sheltered areas, when they funnel through Iowa during their trip. “We are seeking reports from landowners if they have monarchs roosting on their property or from community members if they observe roosting monarchs on public lands,” said Katherine Kral-O’Brien, with the IMCC. “Identifying these roosting locations provides critical data on migration pathways and helps scientists and conservationists protect and restore key habitats.”
How to identify a monarch roost • Dozens to hundreds of monarchs clustered on tree branches • Most often found in sheltered areas, near the edge of woodlands, windbreaks or river corridors • Roosting typically occurs in the evening and early morning “If you observe a monarch roost, please contact the IMCC at monarchs@iastate.edu and provide a general location of the roost (e.g., the address or name of the public area),” Kral-O’Brien said. The type of tree, number of monarchs, dates and photos are also helpful. All reported data will remain anonymous. Roost sites can also be reported to Journey North to assist monarch researchers and conservationists around the country.
Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium contributed photo
Monarchs roosting on conifer branch.
Why it matters Monarch populations have declined significantly in recent decades due to multiple factors including habitat loss and extreme weather. Iowa plays a crucial role in their migration corridor. By documenting roosting sites, landowners are directly contributing to the science that guides conservation strategies at home and across the continent.
Additional ways to get involved Even if you don’t encounter a roost, you can still help track the monarch migration through Bluetooth technology. New BlūMorpho tags allow researchers to pinpoint a tagged monarch’s location through Bluetooth. The lightweight tags run on solar energy, allowing scientists to track the butterfly’s movement throughout its lifetime. By downloading the Project Monarch app in the Google Play or Apple Store, turning on your Bluetooth and searching for tagged monarchs in your area, you can help track tagged individuals during the fall migration. This will especially be important in September when the IMCC will be releasing BlūMorpho-tagged monarchs as part of a migration research project. To learn more about this research, sign up for the IMCC Newsletter or follow @iowamonarchs on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. About the Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium The Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium is comprised of members and partners from over 50 organizations, including agricultural and conservation associations, agribusiness and utility companies, universities and state and federal agencies. To learn more about the IMCC and the resources it provides, visit https://monarch.ent.iastate.edu/.