Engineer discusses bike ban

A group calling itself the "Citizens for Safety Coalition of Iowa" is advocating a bicycle ban on the state's farm to market roads. Washington County Engineer David Patterson says about one-third of roads in the county are farm to market routes. He says the state has a map showing preferred bicycle routes for both county and state roads.

Loebsack starts E. Iowa tour

Congressman Dave Loebsack began his month-long tour of town hall meetings yesterday (8/11) which will eventually bring him to Washington, Columbus Junction, Fairfield and Mt. Pleasant. Loebsack says these meetings are held so he can discuss topics and issues important to Iowans. The congressman will hold the Mt. Pleasant meeting Saturday at the Civic Center at noon. There is a complete schedule on the main page of this website

Riverside could take over county park

Riverside could be taking over a Washington County park. Conservation Director Steve Anderson says the city is in a better position to care for the park than the county is. He says the entire park is actually in the city limits. There will be a public hearing tonight (8/12) at 4:30 at the Marr Park Conservation Center on the proposal.

Rubio sewer system update

Plans for a new sewer system in Rubio are moving slowly. County Supervisor Wes Rich says the Regional Utility Services System is trying to implement new cluster-based septic systems for the town, but is first required to obtain permission from residents. He says they currently have approval from 65-percent of the residents and are working on the rest. He says these improvements would help create a healthier environment and improve quality of life for residents.

Area schools starting soon

Area schools are starting up this month, some as early as this week. Washington County Sheriff Jerry Dunbar says this will mean an increase in both pedestrian and motor vehicle traffic. Dunbar says people also need to mindful of school buses. He says it's illegal to pass a stopped school bus with it's flashing stop signals extended.

M-P teachers starting soon

Students at Mid-Prairie don't start classes for two more weeks, but teachers will be back next week. Superintendent Mark Schneider says the new year will kick off for new teachers on August 18 with an orientation day. New teachers will review school policies and go over important dates and events for the upcoming year.

Hamakua seeks donations for rummage sale

Hamakua Place Youth Center in Washington is planning a garage and bake sale in late September. Center Director Deb Bodensteiner says they are looking for donations of gently used household items such as furniture. She says they do have space to store it if people want to move items now. Bodensteiner says donations are tax deductible.

WCT presents Frankenstein

The Washington Community Theater is putting on a production of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein this October. It's described as a rescue of the classic story from simplistic notions of horror and fear. Auditions for the production will be held the first two days of September at the Washington Community Center. Scripts are available at the Public Library. Roles are available for eight men three women and one boy.