Des Moines City Council Approves $11.5M in Budget Cuts for Fiscal Year 2028
(Des Moines, IA) — The Des Moines City Council has approved more than $ 11 million in cuts for the 2028 budget. A number of departments and services will be affected, including the police and fire departments, public libraries, and parks and recreation. The measure isn’t expected to cover the entire budget gap, which is estimated to reach up to 17 million dollars over the next two fiscal years. The City Council must approve the 2028 budget by the end of April 2027.
Inflation Continues To Rise In Midwest
(Des Moines, IA) — Costs for Iowans are still on the rise. Midwest inflation rose to three-point-six percent in August, the highest reading for the month since before the pandemic. A study by the Common Sense Institute estimates housing, transportation, and food costs alone have risen by just over 200-dollars a month since 2020. Consumer prices are up more than 30 percent over the past six years. Midwest inflation has now outpaced the national rate for seven consecutive months.
Ex-Police Chief Pleads Guilty, Avoids Jail Time in $50,000 Improper Pay Case
(Des Moines, IA) — A former Iowa police chief accused of collecting more than 50-thousand-dollars in improper pay is avoiding jail time and probation through a plea deal. William Daggett served as police chief for both Baxter and Van Meter from July through September 2022. A state audit found Daggett claimed to be working in both cities at the same time on multiple occasions and received more than 50-thousand-dollars in pay and benefits beyond what he was owed. Daggett pleaded guilty to one count of nonfelonious misconduct in office, a serious misdemeanor, and was ordered to pay fines, court costs, and restitution.
Two Hospitalized After Okoboji Boat Crash
(Okoboji, IA) — Two people are hospitalized following a boat crash over the weekend on East Okoboji Lake. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources says a 42-foot catamaran-style racing boat struck a dock around 7 p.m. Saturday, launched over a boat hoist, came ashore and crossed 255th Avenue before coming to a stop. The boat’s operator, 73-year-old Duane Ver Meer, and passenger, 68-year-old Lisa Ver Meer, were taken to a local hospital. Their conditions are unknown.
IDOT To Hire More Than 500 Snow Plow Drivers For Winter
(Des Moines, IA) — While Iowans settle into cooler, fall-like weather, the state is setting its sights on winter. The Iowa Department of Transportation plans to hire more than 500 snowplow drivers this year. The department is holding job fairs in six cities across the state this month in hopes of recruiting enough snow plow operators for the upcoming winter. Job seekers will be able to apply on site, meet DOT staff, and ask questions.
