Study: Iowa Among The Least-Stressed States About Health Insurance
(Des Moines, IA) — A new study ranks Iowa among the least-stressed states in the country about health insurance. Telehealth provider NiceRx looked at health-related costs and concerns in all 50 states. While Iowa saw a 665-percent increase in online searches for health insurance last year, the study finds Iowa is the fourth least-stressed state concerning health insurance. With only about five-point-four-percent of Iowans uninsured, the state has the 11th lowest uninsured rate in the nation.
Marshalltown Passes Temporary Moratorium On Data Centers
(Marshalltown, IA) — The City of Marshalltown is putting a pause on data center projects. The City Council says the temporary moratorium means it won’t consider applications, permits or zoning amendments. During the moratorium, the council says it plans to determine how the city’s comprehensive plan, building and development standards and zoning ordinances apply to data centers. The moratorium will go until November 23, unless it is modified.
Development Projects Continue In Downtown Des Moines
(Des Moines, IA) — Development projects in Des Moines’ East Village and downtown continue at a brisk pace despite higher construction costs. City Development Director Cody Christensen says a new proposal would convert a former Wells Fargo office building into a Marriott hotel. Ongoing projects include the new, 33-story apartment building at 515 Walnut Street, the conversion of the former Financial Center into a luxury residential building and the redevelopment of the former Armory Building. Christensen says the end of Fiscal Year 2026 wrapped up with 655-million dollars in development projects. He says the year before, Des Moines attracted a billion dollars in private development.
Iowa High School Athletic Association Reporting Football Referee Shortage
(Des Moines, IA) — High schools across Iowa are just starting their football season, but there aren’t as many referees available to work their games. The Iowa High School Athletic Association says there are about 350 fewer officials registered for this season compared to last season. In response, the athletic association says it’s expanding the Ref-Reps program, which opens the door for high school students to become officials. More information about the program or how to register as a referee is available on the association’s website.
