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Who is ready for an AMAZING

Ankeny Chamber SummerFest?!

As I reflect on my seven years with the Chamber and prepare for my sixth Ankeny Chamber SummerFest, I’m reminded that this event is about so much more than rides, music, food, and fireworks. It’s about community. It’s about neighbors reconnecting, families creating memories, businesses showcasing what makes Ankeny special, and thousands of people coming together to celebrate our community.

Ankeny Chamber SummerFest simply would not happen without the incredible support of our volunteers. Hundreds of individuals, including our Board of Directors, Ambassadors, and community volunteers, will give their time and talents to make this event possible, and we are incredibly grateful for their dedication.

We are also fortunate to have amazing sponsors who believe in investing in Ankeny. Thank you to our Platinum Sponsors, the City of Ankeny and the Polk County Board of Supervisors, and to our Presenting Sponsor, Karl Chevrolet, whose longstanding support continues to make this celebration possible.

From Family Fun Night at the AMP, hosted by our Young Professionals, to the carnival, vendor fair, delicious foods, live entertainment, the Grand Parade, and fireworks, there truly will be something for everyone.

I’d also like to recognize the dedicated Chamber team working behind the scenes throughout the year to bring this event to life. This summer, we’re fortunate to welcome interns Ellie Albert, Molly Noelck, and Madilyn Tow, who will experience firsthand what it takes to produce an event of this magnitude. Tony PeterSmith and Sharlyn Estrem have led the planning of the Grand Parade, one of SummerFest’s most beloved traditions.

Mackenzie Cowden has once again brought the event to life through her exceptional marketing, graphic design, and promotional materials. And finally, Diane Weber continues to lead every aspect of Ankeny Chamber SummerFest with incredible passion and dedication, coordinating countless details to create an exceptional experience for our community.

I couldn’t be prouder of our staff, volunteers, sponsors, and community.

As we move through the second half of the year, we’re already looking ahead to an exciting fall season. Be sure to mark your calendars for our larger events, the Multicultural Business Summit on September 15, Fall Ball Golf Outing on September 30, Witches Night Out on October 22, and Discover Ankeny on November 5.

Thank you for being part of what makes Ankeny such an extraordinary place to live, work, and do business, and for being a part of our Chamber family.

We’ll see you at Ankeny Chamber SummerFest... it’s time to JINGLE in JULY!

Jamie AndersonExecutive Director

JULY AUGUST

Ribbon Cutting Amazon Hub

12:00 - 12:30 PM

Held at On With Life, Inc.

715 S.W. Ankeny Rd.

AYP After Hours

5:00 - 7:00 PM

Sponsored by Liquor Lovers Wine & Spirits 1510 S Ankeny Blvd, Ste 107/108

City of AnkenyLocal Option Sales Tax Presentation 4:00 - 5:00 PM

Held at Ankeny Kirkendall Public Library: Council Chambers | 1250 SW District Dr

Ribbon Cutting Primrose Swim Academy

12:00 - 12:30 PM 3172 SE Primrose Dr

AYP in the AM 7:30 - 9:00 AM

Sponsored by IV Nutrition Ankeny 2405 SW White Birch Dr , Ste 105/106

July 13 & 14 - Chamber Office Closed

3737 Woodland Ave West Des Moines July 10-12,

Ribbon Cutting Faith Home Health & Freedom Home Health Care

4:30- 5:00 PM

2701 SE Convenience Blvd, Ste 10

Chamber’s July

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4:00 - 5:00 PM

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4:00 - 5:00 PM Join us virtually!

Lattes & Leads

Presented by New York Life & Eagle Strategies 1615 SW Main St, Ste 201 27

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What a great day for golf!

Written by Ellie Albert - Special Events Intern

Our Spring Fling Golf Outing at Briarwood Golf Course in Ankeny was a great way to spend time outside, connect with fellow Chamber members, and celebrate our community. Golfers enjoyed a full day of friendly competition on the course with opportunities to network with sponsors and other participants throughout the event. A huge thank-you goes out to all of our hole sponsors for spending the day with us, engaging with golfers, and helping make the outing such a success.

Golfers also enjoyed raffle and mulligan sales, along with a Chick-fil-A lunch that offered an opportunity to relax and connect between holes. Events like the Spring Fling Golf Outing help strengthen relationships within the Chamber and create meaningful opportunities for businesses to support one another in a welcoming atmosphere. We appreciate everyone who participated, volunteered, sponsored, and helped make the day run smoothly. We hope to see you next year!

Tee Off Sponsor

Presenting Sponsor

Birdie Sponsors

A Kings Throne Portable Restrooms & Septic

ACME Chiropractic, PC

All Iowa Roofing

ALLO Business

Alloy Personal Training NorthPointe

Bankers Trust

Coachlight Clinic Ankeny

First National Bank Ankeny

Five Star Painting

Gameday Men’s Health Ankeny

JB Roofing

Karl Chevrolet

King Construction

Northwest Bank

ServiceMaster by Rice

Webspec Design

Box Lunch Sponsor Keeping it Kool Sponsor

Golf Ball Sponsor

Social Hour Sponsor

Golf Cart Sponsor

Beverage Cart Sponsor

The 19th Hole Sponsor

Golf Ball Marker Sponsor

Koozie Sponsor

Water & Putting Green Sponsor

Mulligan Sponsor

Thank you to the Greater Des Moines Partnership for hosting a wonderful Chamber Night at the Iowa Cubs this week! One of our favorite evenings of the year, this event brings together business and community leaders from across the region for a memorable night of networking, celebration, and fun at the ballpark. Thank to you our Board Chair Aaron Rickelman for representing the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce and to Hy-Vee for providing the chips at the tailgate!

Exterior and interior door signage is available for a minimal fee $825/month

Street-level office suites available within the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce office 1-year lease commitment

Situated in the heart of The District at Prairie Trail Shared kitchenette, restrooms, and a conference room, reserved on a first-come, first-served basis Suites are not furnished; tenant to provide 24/7/365 key access

Internet access and copying/printing services are available for a minimal fee

Contact the Chamber for more information: (515) 964-0685 | info@ankeny.org

DMDC TRIP

Our Executive Director, Jamie Anderson, recently had the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., as part of the Greater Des Moines Partnership annual DMDC trip. What an incredible experience to join nearly 200 civic and business leaders from across the metro to connect with elected officials, learn from industry experts, and advocate for regional priorities. Highlights included visiting the Thai Embassy and meeting with the Ambassador of Thailand, a private tour of the U.S. Capitol, forming meaningful connections, and participating in discussions with federal leaders regarding important initiatives for our region. Ankeny showed up!

• Cit y of Ankeny - Government

• Mayor Bobbi Bentz

• City Manager, Mike Scrock

• Economic Development Director, Derek Lord

• Council Member, Matt Davis

• Chamber Board Chair, Aaron Rickelman with Designed 2 Move Spine & Sport

• Board Member, Sue Hudson with IV Nutrition Ankeny

• Chamber Members Matt Hudson from Hudson Property Management and Mark Land with Snyder & Associates, Inc.

We are proud to represent Ankeny, strengthen relationships, and elevate our community's priorities on a national stage.

SEPTEMBER

THAT BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER

Written by Molly Noelck based on an interview with Kim Johnson-Smith

From mobile stages and video walls to community festivals and live entertainment, Iowa Sound has grown from a high school side project into one of Iowa’s leading event production companies.

Kim Johnson-Smith, coowner of Go Stagestruck & Iowa Sound, shares how the business evolved, the lessons learned through growth, and why creating meaningful experiences remains at the heart of everything her team does. Including helping the Chamber produce Ankeny Chamber SummerFest!

driven people, so we take the time to understand our clients’ goals and what success looks like for them.

We view ourselves as an extension of our client’s team. If we can reduce some of the workload involved in planning entertainment and events, we’ve done our job. I love being able to tell clients, “Give us your schedule and performer’s contact information, and we’ll take it from here!”

“WE VIEW OURSELVES AS AN EXTENSION OF OUR CLIENT’S TEAM”

From a High School Venture to a Statewide Business

My husband Jason Smith, actually started Iowa Sound while he was still in high school. At the time, he wasn’t necessarily trying to create a business. It simply evolved over the years as opportunities continued to grow.

In 2017, we launched Go Stagestruck, the mobile stage division of our company. That decision came after we took a step back and looked for ways we could better serve our clients. We realized many organizations were bringing architecturally certified mobile stages into Iowa from out-of-state vendors because there weren’t any providers here. We decided to fill that gap.

It was a leap of faith. We worked with one of our Chamber partners to secure our first business loan and purchased our first mobile stage. Two years later, we added a second stage. A year after that, we added a third, making us the largest provider of certified mobile stages in Iowa. Looking back, that investment changed the trajectory of our business..

Growing While Staying True to Our Values

One of the biggest challenges was managing growth while maintaining the reputation we had worked so hard to build. As we added employees, expanded our services, and outgrew our space, we never wanted clients to feel those growing pains. Our goal was to keep their experience seamless, even while major changes were happening behind the scenes. That meant investing in our team, building better systems, and staying committed to the level of service our clients had come to expect. What business practices have been most important to your success?

Everything we do is driven by our core values. One of those values is “We Care Deeply.” We’re relationship-

That level of support allows them to focus on the bigger picture while we handle the details.

How do you build trust with your clients?

“Transparency” is another one of our core values. That means being honest about what we can do, communicating consistently, and making sure there are no surprises along the way.

Many people think events come together on event day, but the reality is that months of planning happen behind the scenes. There are schedules, logistics, technical requirements, performer coordination, and contingency plans.

When challenges arise, whether it’s weather or an unexpected change, we take a proactive approach and work with our clients to find solutions. That communication builds trust over time.

How do you maintain quality and consistency throughout Iowa and the Midwest?

One of my biggest passions is systems and processes. While every event is unique, many planning steps are the same. We’ve worked hard to create systems that help us collect information, communicate

with clients, and keep our team aligned. Those processes allow us to provide a consistent experience regardless of the event’s size or location.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of surrounding yourself with great people. As small business owners, we often try to do everything ourselves. Eventually, that becomes impossible. It’s important to ask for help, trust your team, and seek advice from other business owners and community leaders. There is always something new to learn, and those outside perspectives help us continue growing.

How has the event industry changed, and how have you adapted?

Our industry is constantly evolving. Sound, lighting, and video technology continue to advance, which means we have to keep learning and reinvesting. As audience expectations have grown, we’ve expanded our services through investments in top tier concert production technology, including our newest venture, a mobile video truck.

At the same time, audience expectations have changed. People don’t attend events solely for the music, food, or attractions. They’re looking for an experience. Our role is helping clients create those memorable moments because that’s what keeps people engaged and encourages them to come back year after year.

What inspired you to become involved with the Chamber and events like Mentoring for Women?

For me, it comes down to community connection. I’ve learned so much from other business owners throughout my career, and I enjoy having opportunities to give back and support people who are earlier in their journeys.

The Mentoring for Women event was especially rewarding because it brought together women at different stages of their careers. Even though we worked in different industries, many of the challenges were the same. There was tremendous value in sharing experiences, offering support, and learning from one another.

How do you maintain a work-life balance in an industry built around nights and weekends?

This is probably one of the most challenging aspects of our industry because events don’t happen on a traditional schedule. We’re fortunate to have incredibly supportive children and an amazing support system. We find opportunities to carve out family time whenever we can. That may not always look like summer weekends at the lake, but we love travel as a family whenever it works with our schedule. We’ve also mastered the art of building mini vacations into our work trips. Our focus is always on making the most of the time we have.

“OUR JOB IS TO MAKE PERFORMERS SHINE AND HELP OUR CLIENTS SUCCEED.”

It really does take a village to do what we do. My husband is my business partner and my biggest supporter. He’s truly the yin to my yang. We have very different personalities, and those differences complement each other well in business.

I’m also grateful for our families, especially our parents, who have stepped in to help on countless busy event weekends when our children were younger. And, of course, our team deserves tremendous credit. We simply couldn’t do what we do without them. What do you love most about Ankeny and the metro area?

I love the opportunities available here, both for business owners and for families. One of the unique benefits of our industry is experiencing so many cultural and community events. We often bring our children along, which gives them opportunities to experience things they might not otherwise encounter.

I also appreciate the collaborative atmosphere among small business owners. There is a genuine desire to see one another succeed, and that’s something special.

What is your favorite part of event day?

Without question, it’s seeing everything come together. There is so much work that happens behind the scenes leading up to an event. Our job isn’t to take center stage. Our job is to make performers shine and help our clients succeed.

At the end of the day, I love stepping back and seeing what everyone accomplished together. Events like SummerFest are great examples of that. Watching communities, events, and performers grow and evolve over the years has been incredibly rewarding.

What’s one of the most memorable event experiences you’ve had?

Some of the most memorable events aren’t the ones where everything goes perfectly. They’re the ones where you have to solve unexpected problems.

Before joining Iowa Sound full time, I worked in meeting and event planning. During one conference, a colleague called and said, “I’m stuck in the bathroom.” She wasn’t joking. The stall door had jammed shut and extended from floor to ceiling, leaving no way out. Hotel maintenance ultimately had to remove the entire door to free her.

Moments like that remind you that no matter how much planning goes into an event, surprises happen. Event professionals have to stay calm, solve problems quickly, and keep moving forward.

What’s one piece of advice you’d share with fellow business owners?

Be willing to step outside your comfort zone. Nothing exceptional happens when we stay comfortable. At the same time, take calculated risks. Do the research, understand your options, and evaluate what makes sense for your business.

When the opportunity is right, don’t be afraid to take the leap. Some of the most meaningful growth happens on the other side of that decision.

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Listening First A Conversation on Public Service,

Growth, & Community

Written by Madilyn Tow based on an interview with Mark Holm, edited by Mandi Nelsen

What do you love about Ankeny?

Ankeny is my adopted hometown, and it’s felt like home from the moment I arrived. My wife and kids were born here, so the roots run deep for our family. One of the things I love most is how intentionally the city grows. You can drive through town and always spot something new, not just on the edges, but in older neighborhoods that are getting renewed energy and new life. Younger families are moving into established areas, while commercial and industrial development continues at a pace that’s historic for Iowa. This is not growth for its own sake. It is a community investing in itself, and choosing to do so wisely. I am proud to call Ankeny home.

What first convinced you to enter public service?

My interest in politics goes back to my political science degree, but it wasn’t until I got involved in campaigns that I realized how rewarding it felt to help people.

Once elected, I started to see my role as the person who helps residents navigate the sometimes frustrating world of government. Most calls I receive come from people who are frustrated, confused, or upset about a policy or decision. I tell people, “You may not like my answer, but I will get you an answer.” That commitment has always been the foundation of how I serve.

Over time, I’ve stayed focused on the same core idea: government should live within its means instead of spending outside of it. Taxes, spending, and economic development have always driven my policy decision making. My focus has been on helping people by lowering the tax burden.

How do you handle public pressure as a local politician?

Being in public life means you trade a bit of privacy for the chance to serve, and I’ve accepted that people will stop me in the grocery store or snap a picture when I’m out.

What’s harder is when disagreements turn personal, because I believe in a style of politics where your word matters and that you debate the issue, accept the outcome, and then keep moving forward. Thick skin really does matter because it helps you see where you agree, be honest about where you don’t, and keep working together, which has always been my goal.

Being elected is not a job you leave at the office. It is a lifestyle. The days are long, the boundaries between public and private blur constantly, and the work of balancing family with the needs of constituents never really stops. I would not trade it, but I also do not pretend it is easy.

What keeps me grounded is remembering why I ran in the first place, not for the title, but because the work matters.

What has changed about local politics?

The biggest change has been watching local politics become partisan.

At the local level, much of the work we do is not

partisan. Things like sewer, water, streets, police, law and order, and public health. We do not look at street projects and ask what the politics of it are.

When I first ran, people asked what I planned to decide if I was the right fit. Now, one of the first questions is often, “Are you a Republican or a Democrat?” Local government works best when people focus on solutions.

What hasn’t changed is the importance of being present; you learn more from conversations at a ballgame or in a restaurant than you do from any report. I’ve always believed politicians should be visible. If they aren’t out in the community, they are out of touch with it.

time to get things right.

Miracle Park stands out because it was challenging and emotional. The project involved the city, the school board, Terrace Elementary, and families who cared deeply about the park and school playground space. It took patience, communication, and a lot of heart to get it right, but the result made every tough moment worth it.

“I’ve always believed politicians should be visible. If they aren’t out in the community, they are out of touch with it.”

The High Trestle Trail bridge over Oralabor is another point of pride for me. When the original plan was

Visibility is not just good politics. It is the job. How does transportation shape the way you lead?

Transportation planning is more than getting people from one place to another quickly. It is about making sure everyone arrives safely. There is a nationwide campaign built around the goal of Zero Fatalities, and I believe safety is often overlooked for speed. I hear complaints about how long it takes to get from point A to point B but rarely hear comments about how safe someone felt navigating a newly improved intersection.

I focus on the long-term goal of a system that is safe for everyone who uses it. That sometimes means accepting short-term disruption. Getting people there quickly matters. Getting everyone there safely matters even more. What community projects have stayed with you?

Two projects stand out to me as examples of what local government can accomplish when it takes the

just a standard metal bridge design, I pushed back because I believed that spot deserved something iconic, something that marked the gateway into Ankeny and reflected our community’s character. Today, the bridge design is a structure people recognize and feel proud of, and that’s exactly what I hoped for. What advice would you give young professionals?

If you’re even a little curious about public service, start by showing up. Join a board or commission, sit in on a council meeting, or just talk to your local elected officials. You may be surprised at how accessible people are.

Public service has its challenges, but there’s a lot of joy in building relationships and helping a community grow.

And if you run for office and don’t win the first time, run again. The experience of a campaign teaches you more than you might expect.

As for what I hope people say about me when my time in public service is done, I hope they say I was fair, that I listened, and that I always tried to do what was best for the community.

That, to me, is what public service is all about.

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Creativity Doesn’t Disappear When Life Changes

Written by Juli Accola and edited by Mackenzie Cowden

How did your love of dance, writing, and creativity begin?

I was a very high-strung little girl, and although my parents had me in sports, apparently, it wasn’t doing the job of keeping me occupied. Around 4 years old, my mother noticed I was always dancing every time music was played. She enrolled me in dance classes, and I danced all through school and followed this passion into college, dancing at Iowa State University for the Dance Department, even winning a Betty Toman Award for Contribution to Dance my Senior Year.

My writing started early on as well. My grade school teachers noticed that when I finished my work early (which was almost every day), I would bother other students because I loved to talk. HAHA. In 3rd grade, my teacher gave me a journal and told me to write down my thoughts. I started writing more, and eventually, I was writing stories in my journal. I found that the arts helped more with that high-strung mentality than any of the sports I had played. Although Running is still one of my favorite athletic outlets, over the years I have run my share of road races, half marathons, and marathons.

These passions gave me a sense of confidence. I loved expressing myself through the creative process of choreography and writing. I never fear being in front of people because I was on a stage my whole life. I’ve also never feared entering a room of strangers and starting conversations. It’s probably why the world of sales has always been an easy fit for me.

How did your priorities change as you built a family and career?

As a college student, I would never have fathomed giving up any of my dreams for anyone. However, after graduating, getting married, and starting a family, I stepped away from some of those creative outlets to focus on being a wife and mother. I learned my passion for my family was greater than my passion for writing and art. It was my creativity that gave me the drive to channel that energy into what my husband and boys needed.

Those early years as a mom inspired some of my writing. In 2003, I published my first children’s novel, starting The Adventures of Amanda Humperdink Series. It was a

great experience until the publisher closed, forcing me to self-publish the second book. I’m glad my publishing journey unfolded this way, because I learned a lot about the writing world. Financially, self-publishing isn’t the easiest, so I had to put the series on hold until life slowed down a little.

Still, I kept writing. I wanted to create something just for my kids. I loved writing baby books for my three boys and creating stories with their likenesses. I have another young adult series that I wrote as well, and the main character is based on my oldest son.

What’s a better story to read to my children than one I created about them? My middle boy thought all moms wrote stories for their kids. It is a pretty cool feeling, as a mom, to know you have done something for them outside the norm. I hope that someday, when I’m gone, they will have those stories to remember me by.

“A dancer & a writer who sells trash? Why not!”

Thank you to my husband, Curt, and my sons. Ethan, CJ, and Lance, you are the reasons I strive to be the best and make you proud. My family is the best story I will ever tell, and I will always put them first.

What have your years at Ankeny Sanitation taught you?

Joining Ankeny Sanitation 16 years ago was a great experience, and providing for my family is something that I am proud of. In this day and age, it’s hard if both parents don’t work, and it was vital that I contribute to my family’s financial stability. It is never easy to give up some of your passions or put them on the shelf, but during my children’s younger years, I didn’t regret it. I love contributing to the growth of Ankeny Sanitation. A dancer & a writer who sells trash? Why not!

It was a new challenge in those early years, and I love a challenge. Sales Reps are supposed to be outspoken and have a way with words. I believe that is why I have had success at Ankeny Sanitation. We always need new teachers in life to show us new things and give us new experiences. I have had great guidance from General Manager Dave Massey and owner Andrew

Larson. I never thought I would be passionate about trash, but you can find a creative twist on anything you do in this life. Who knows, I might even write a story about it someday.

If I learned anything, it’s that my creative mind is high-strung and needs constant challenge. When my boys were little, I was busy working, being supermom, and supporting my husband, a law enforcement officer for over 20 years. All of which kept my mind occupied & challenged. How has creativity helped you navigate different seasons of life?

As our boys grow into their own lives and my husband begins to see the end of his law enforcement days, I find myself having some downtime I haven’t had in years, and that makes me anxious. So, before I get in trouble with my 3rd grade teacher again, I figured it was time to dust off the journal.

To be honest, I don’t think I would have pursued anything with my former writing or creative side until I actually retired from Ankeny Sanitation (which is still years away), but a former customer reached out to me and got my creative juices flowing again.

She was not just any customer. Kate HightshoeLambert was one of my favorite customers and a very dear friend. Kate is also an amazing artist and a musician. When she left the business world to go back to her artistic roots, she started the Kate Shu Collective and Monarch Shoppe

“I believe there can be joy and creativity in anything you do in this life”

When I reconnected with Kate, we began talking about our passions. When she discovered I was a writer as well, she was like, “You have to join The Collective! You have to be one of my artists!” The Kate Shu Collective has a host of artists, some with professional careers and some who just hone their craft. The Monarch Shoppe not only showcases its artist, but also provides a way for other businesses to create their own brand and have their own company merchandise.

My brand: Live it, Write it, Share it... Live your life. Tell Your Story was created by Kate, and I have a whole clothing line dedicated to it. She inspired me to start Jella Books LLC, which will give me an outlet for my Amanda Humperdink series once I relaunch it. Now, by day I sell trash, and I moonlight as a writer and business owner. It’s been such a joy to be part of The Collective, and I am so blessed to have a friend like Kate. It’s been an amazing experience, and I love watching it all unravel.

What advice would you give someone pursuing a creative passion?

One of the biggest lessons I have learned is that we don’t have to stop being creative just because we aren’t doing what we did at 22. You can be who you are and channel your creative side through whatever role you are playing in this life. I found my creative outlets as a wife, mother, and sales rep at Ankeny Sanitation.

I believe there can be joy and creativity in anything you do in this life:

Sometimes it’s dirty faces, hugs, and kisses from your sons.

Sometimes it’s a ride along with your husband in a squad car

Sometimes it’s surrounded by trash and recycling dumpsters... and

Sometimes it’s a new adventure with an old friend, encouraging you to never stop being the artist you were.

What advice would you give to someone who feels called to pursue a creative passion?

The great thing about art is that it can be found in anything that you do. Cooking, Gardening, Running a road race, Dancing in your kitchen with your husband, Selling Trash, it is all an art!

I would say start with what you know and try not to care what anyone thinks (easier said than done, I know) but if you love something enough, your love for it will outweigh any negativity ever thrown at you. I always go back to my 3rd -grade teacher’s advice: Get yourself a journal and start writing things down. Let your thoughts evolve and before you know it, you might be telling your story too.

Live your life and tell your story. You only have one life, and your story deserves to be shared. There is no doover, so go after your passions and love as hard as you can in this life. Life is too short not to live it!

What do you love about Ankeny?

The Ankeny Community is my home. We moved here 14 years ago, and it was the best decision we ever made. It’s where we raised our children, started careers, and learned so much about life and love. It’s a large community, but not too large, and I love that I have so many different networks of friends, customers, coworkers, etc. It’s an extension of my family, and I have never felt more at home in a place than Ankeny, Iowa.

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We are thrilled to participate in Ankeny Chamber SummerFest, July 10-12 & hope to see you there!

Greiner Construction is a full-service relationship based general contractor where no job is too big or too small. Our team is entrepreneurial minded who are nimble, flexible, adaptable, and creative problem solvers. We serve a variety of clients ranging from corporate office, private education, multi-family housing, building rehab, hospitality, healthcare/wellness, federal/civic, industrial, and non-profit entities.

Five Star Bath Solutions is a trusted bathroom remodeling company specializing in high-quality, affordable renovations for homeowners throughout Central Iowa. Their experienced team provides tub and shower replacements, tub-to-shower conversions, walk-in tubs, accessible bathing solutions, flooring, vanities, and complete bathroom remodels.

With a focus on craftsmanship, efficiency, and exceptional customer service, Five Star Bath Solutions works closely with each client to create beautiful, functional spaces that fit their style and needs. Whether you're looking to modernize your bathroom, improve accessibility, or increase your home's value, their team is committed to delivering durable, customized solutions backed by professional installation and a customer-first experience.

461-6847

Kate Florer Realty, Legacy Realty LPT, is committed to helping buyers, sellers, and investors confidently navigate the Central Iowa real estate market. Whether you're purchasing your first home, upgrading to a new space, downsizing, or exploring investment opportunities, Kate provides personalized guidance and responsive service every step of the way. Her client-focused approach, attention to detail, and in-depth knowledge of the local market help make each transaction as smooth and stressfree as possible.

Kate is passionate about building lasting relationships and ensuring her clients feel informed and supported from the initial consultation through closing day. With a dedication to exceptional service and strong community connections, Kate Florer Realty is proud to help individuals and families achieve their real estate goals throughout Ankeny and the surrounding area!

(515) 708-6615 TheColorCollectiveDSM.com

The Color Collective specializes in personalized color analysis and styling services, helping clients discover the colors that complement them best while boosting confidence and making everyday wardrobe decisions easier. We are excited to welcome this unique business to the Chamber community and look forward to seeing its continued success in Ankeny.

Congratulations to Jaden and The Color Collective on celebrating your ribbon cutting with the Ankeny Area Chamber!

Speech Now Therapy Center provide evidence -based, personalized speech and language therapy for children and young adults from birth through age 21. Their mission is to help every child find their voice and communicate with confidence.

Welcome to the Ankeny Area Chamber, Lacey and the Speech Now Therapy Center team!

Congratulations to McClure on the successful ribbon cutting and open house at your Ankeny headquarters! The Ankeny Area Chamber was proud to celebrate this exciting milestone alongside your team. Thank you for your continued investment in Ankeny and for the innovation, leadership, and expertise you bring to our community and beyond. We look forward to your continued growth and success for years to come!

Local Escapes Without Leaving Town

Written by Molly Noelck and Ellie Albert

With a strong mix of full-service hotels, extendedstay suites, and family-friendly amenities, Ankeny offers residents and visitors plenty of ways to enjoy a “getaway” without ever leaving town. From pools, meeting spaces, in-room kitchens and pet-friendly stays, Ankeny’s hotel scene is built for convenience and comfort.

Below is a staycation guide highlighting standout properties for summer in Ankeny.

All hotels offer group rates, a non-smoking policy, are within walking or a short-driving distance from local restaurants, free parking and internet for all guests.

Classic Comfort & Full-Service Stays

Best Western Premier Ankeny

2502 SE Tones Dr. Ankeny, IA, 50021 (515) 965-5678

A strong choice for travelers who want a traditional hotel experience with elevated amenities, this property offers 84 rooms and seven accessible rooms. Guests can enjoy a swimming pool, hot tub, fitness equipment, and an on-site cocktail lounge. A complimentary full breakfast rounds out the experience, making it ideal for weekend relaxation or visiting guests looking for a polished, all-in-one stay.

Country Inn of Ankeny

2510 SE Tones Dr. Ankeny, IA 50021 (515) 644-6164

Located just next door, this hotel blends comfort and practicality with 63 rooms and 10 suites. A 25-person meeting space, indoor pool, hot tub, and lounge area make it well-suited for both leisure and small events. Guests also appreciate pet-friendly accommodations and complimentary continental breakfast, making it a flexible option for families and short stays.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ankeny

2502 SE Hulsizer Dr., Ankeny, IA, 50021 (515) 965-2400

This property is designed for efficient, comfortable stays with 94 guest rooms and a streamlined amenity package. Highlights include an indoor pool, 24-hour fitness center, meeting space, and complimentary breakfast. It’s a reliable option for travelers who want consistency and convenience in a central location.

Hampton Inn Express & Suites Ankeny

1610 SE Convenience Blvd., Ankeny, IA, 50021 (515) 261-4400

With 77 rooms and 20 suites, this hotel offers a slightly more spacious feel while still maintaining a traditional hotel structure. Guests can access a larger meeting facility for up to 75 people, along with a pool, hot tub, fitness equipment, and pet-friendly rooms. Free continental breakfast adds value for both short and extended stays.

Extended Stay & Suite-Style Living

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ankeny

25206 SE Tones Dr. Ankeny, IA, 50021 (515) 381-0589

Perfect for longer stays or guests who prefer independence, this property features in-room kitchens with two-burner cooktops, microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers. Pet-friendly policies and free continental breakfast make it especially appealing for travelers who want both flexibility and affordability in a residential-style setting.

Tru by Hilton Ankeny & Home2 Suites

1230 SW District Dr., Ankeny, IA 50023 (515) 644-1200

This dual-branded property offers a modern, social atmosphere with 71 rooms, a pool, lounge spaces, fitness equipment, and pet-friendly accommodations. Complimentary breakfast is included, and the design emphasizes flexible communal areas that work well for both short visits and extended stays.

Homewood Suites by Hilton

2455 SE Creekview Dr., Ankeny, IA, 50021 (515) 963-0006

A true extended-stay favorite, Homewood Suites features 92 suites, each with a full kitchen including a cooktop, microwave, refrigerator, dishwasher, and utensils. Guests also enjoy a 40-person meeting room, fitness equipment, indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. It’s ideal for families, relocating professionals, or longer leisure stays.

Residence Inn by Mariott Ankeny

1515 SW Main Street, Ankeny, IA, 50023 (515) 466-7300

With 90 suites and fully equipped kitchens in every unit, this property is built for comfort and independence. A 30–40 person meeting space, fitness center, and free breakfast make it equally suited for business travelers and families looking for extended stays in a home-like environment.

Staybridge Suites in Ankeny

2602 SE Hulsizer Road., Ankeny, IA, 50021 (515) 304-5050

One of the most suite-heavy options in the city, this hotel offers 108 suites with full kitchens and in-room coffee service. Guests can take advantage of two meeting facilities, a swimming pool, and pet-friendly accommodations. It’s designed for longer stays, group travel, and guests who want a more residential feel with hotel conveniences.

If you need a Staycation inAnkeny...

Best Western Premier Ankeny

Address

Country Inn of Ankney

2502 SE Tones Dr. Ankeny, IA, 50021

2510 SE Tones Dr. Ankeny, IA, 50021

Hampton Inn & Suites

6210 SE Convenience Blvd., Ankeny, IA, 50021

Holiday Inn Express & Suites (Conference Center) Tru by Hilton Ankeny

2502 SE Hulsizer Dr., Ankeny, IA, 50021

1230 SW District Dr. Ankeny, IA, 50023

Phone (515 area cd) (515) 965-5678 (515) 644-6164(515) 261-4400(515) 965-2400(515) 644-1200

800 Phone 1(800)780-7234 1(800) 456-4000 1(800)-426-7866 1(800) 050-19331(844) 878-9688

Group Rates Yes

Motorcoach

Meeting Facilities Yes (Suitable for meetings and events) just 1 Yes (25 capacity) Yes (Theater 72-75, Banquet 72, Reception 72, Classroom 60)

Restaurant Nearby Outback Steakhouse, Waterfront SeaFood Market Outback Steakhouse, Waterfront SeaFood Market, Outback Steakhouse, Waterfront Seafood Market Outback Steakhouse, Waterfront SeaFood Market

group

(24 hour fitness center)

Jethros BBQ, 30Hop, Tribute, Magees, Wasabi, Cold Stone, Whiskey River, El Presidenté

Services)

Address

Home2 Suites

1230 SW District Dr., Ankeny, IA, 50023

Homewood Suites By Hilton

2455 SE Creekview Dr., Ankeny, IA, 50021

My Place Hotel Ankeny Des Moines IA

2506 SE Tones Dr Ankeny, IA, 50021

Residence Inn by Mariott Ankeny

1515 SW Main St., Ankeny, IA, 50023

Staybridge Suites Ankeny

2602 SE Hulsizer Rd., Ankeny, IA, 50021

Phone (515 area cd) (515) 644-1100(515) 963-0006(515) 381-0589(515) 446-7300 (515) 304-5050

800

Group Rates

Motorcoach Park

# of

Restaurant Nearby

646-63021(800)

large parking lot to accomadate with notice no Specific truck parking accomodation. Verify with hotel for buses. no semi parking large parking lot to accomadate with notice yes, back of parking lot

Kitchenettes

Jethros BBQ, 30Hop, Tribute, Magees, Wasabi, Cold Stone, Whiskey River, El Presidenté

Yes, no stove or oven, sink fridge dishwasher

Waterfront Seafood Market, Outback Steakhouse

Outback Steakhouse, Waterfront Seafood Market

Gift Shop On Site

Pets Allowed Yes (fees apply)

Free Cont. Brkfst

Fax/Internet Use For Guests

Free Parking

In Room Coffee

Yes: fridge, microwave, cooktop, dishwasher, utensils, coffeemaker

Yes: full size fridge/ freezer, two burner cooktop, microwave, toaster, sink, coffee maker

Jethros BBQ, 30Hop, Tribute, Magees, Wasabi, Cold Stone, Whiskey River, El Presidenté

Chic-fil-a, Olive Garden, McDonalds, B-BOPS, Culvers

(fees apply)

When it comes to your finances, you’re in it for the long haul. Bankers Trust has been building long-lasting relationships in the Ankeny community for nearly two decades. We believe you—and your money—deserve a bank that will stick around as your needs grow. Whether you’re opening your first account, expanding your business, or safeguarding your assets for retirement, Bankers Trust understands and anticipates your needs. Sometimes even before you do. Contact us or stop by our Ankeny branch today.

WE WORK IN HARMONY, ANYTHING IS

We’re on a mission to help life leap forward, but we can’t succeed without the help of everyone from the people we hire to the customers we serve. Because to change the world, we have to work together.

CONNECT WITH US

JAMIE ANDERSON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

DIANE WEBER DIRECTOR OF EVENTS & COMMUNICATIONS

SHARLYN ESTREM OFFICE MANAGER

MACKENZIE COWDEN DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & GRAPHIC DESIGN

TONY PETERSMITH DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP & ENGAGEMENT

THANK YOU TO OUR INVESTOR MEMBERS

THANK YOU TO OUR PREMIER MEMBERS

The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to the promotion & development of our members within the community. LIVE. WORK. PLAY. INSPIRE COMMUNITY.

Bag Check

Weapons Weapons

Ankeny Chamber SummerFest reserves the right to search all bags, backpacks, small coolers, purses, containers etc. upon entry and re-entry. Refusal to comply will result in denied entry.

Guns are prohibited on all Ankeny Chamber SummerFest grounds. We are a weapons-free event!

The Smokefree Air Act applies to all of the Ankeny Chamber SummerFest grounds. There is no smoking allowed anywhere on grounds. This is a state law that will be enforced. Furry friends need to be left at home. This policy will be posted and enforced.

Leaveyour PetsatHome

This Free Event was put on by the staff at the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce.

We thank you for coming and hope you have a wonderful time!

- Diane, Mackenzie, Jamie, Sharlyn & Tony

Platinum Sponsors

Dear Resident

As Chair of the 2026 Ankeny Chamber SummerFest, it is my privilege to help lead one of our community’s most cherished traditions. AC SummerFest is more than a festival, it is a celebration of the people, businesses, organizations, and volunteers who make Ankeny such a special place to live, work & raise a family.

For me, this role carries special meaning. As a lifelong Ankeny resident, I have experienced AC SummerFest from nearly every perspective: as a child attending with friends, as a young adult creating lasting memories, as a local business owner supporting the community, and now as a parent sharing the experience with my own children. Those experiences have given me a deep appreciation for the role SummerFest plays in bringing our community together year after year.

Today, my wife Laura and I are proud to raise our family and operate our businesses here in Ankeny. As co-owner of Gebauer Enterprises and Gimmie’s Mobile Golf, I have the opportunity to work alongside local businesses, organizations, and community leaders who are invested in making our city stronger every day. Through both my professional and personal experiences, I have witnessed firsthand the incredible spirit that continues to drive Ankeny’s growth and success.

AC SummerFest embodies everything that makes Ankeny special. It brings together residents, visitors, volunteers, sponsors, community organizations, and local businesses for a celebration that reflects the very best of our community.

While AC SummerFest has evolved over the years, including a move to a new location, the heart of the event has never changed. The traditions, connections, and sense of community that generations of families have come to cherish remain as strong as ever. In many ways, the new location has created opportunities for the event to continue growing while preserving the experiences and memories that make AC SummerFest such an important part of Ankeny’s identity.

The event would not be possible without the dedication of countless volunteers and the generous support of our sponsors and community partners. Their commitment helps ensure that SummerFest continues to thrive while remaining true to the values that have made it a beloved community tradition for decades.

As Chair, my goal is simple: honor the legacy of Ankeny Chamber SummerFest while helping create new memories for future generations. On behalf of the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce and the entire SummerFest Committee, thank you for your continued support. We look forward to welcoming you to another unforgettable SummerFest and celebrating the community we are proud to call home.

Sincerely,

Cody Gebauer

2026 Ankeny Chamber SummerFest Chair Ankeny Chamber Board Member and Co-Owner of Gebauer Enterprises & Gimmies Mobile Golf Simulator

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Friday July 10

4:00 PM Ankeny Chamber SummerFest Grounds Open 4:00 PM AYP Friday Family Fun Night In Uptown Ankeny

4:00 PM Orphan Annie & The Hot Mess

6:30 PM The Schmidt Brothers

9:00 PM Headliner - Not Quite Brothers

11:00 PM Ankeny Chamber SummerFest Closed AYP Friday Family Fun Night @ The AMP In Uptown 4-8 PM

4:00 PM AYP Family Fun Night Activities Begin

5:30 PM Registration for Kiddie Parade

6:30 - 7:00 PM Kiddie Parade in Uptown Ankeny

7:00 - 8:00 PM AYP Family Fun Night Activities Resume

Saturday July 11

9:00 AM Grand Parade Begins 11:15 AM Lip Sync Contest

1:00 PM School Of Rock

2:30 PM BS and The Liars

5:00 PM Bad Friends

7:00

Sunday July 12

1:00 PM The Sons of Gladys Kravitz

3:0

7:00 PM Headliner - Rival 5 9:30 PM Fireworks Begin 10:00 PM Ankeny Chamber SummerFest Closed

Ankeny Chamber SummerFest is excited to celebrate our 3 day festival July 10th-12th in The District At Prairie Trail! Grab your party hats, decorate your floats with balloons and streamers and let’s have a jingling party here in Ankeny!

The Ankeny Chamber has brought Ankeny and the surrounding metro area together for 3 days of music, carnival rides, great local food and fun! Every year, our committee members, staff and volunteers work hard to bring this festival to life.

So many great activities going on this year. Join us for our Grand Parade that travels through the city of Ankeny to the amazing fireworks at the end in The District At Prairie Trail, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy!

It takes hundreds of volunteers to make all of this happen. Thank you to organizations like the Ankeny Community School District, City of Ankeny, Polk County Supervisors, DMACC, The District at Prairie Trail, The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Ankeny Police and Fire Departments for partnering to help make this event safe and possible!

Thank you to Co m m unity Partners

WRISTBANDS 21+

Bag, ID, & Wristbands

Check At Entrance

IS NOT A STRATEGY!

Max trail speed limit is 20 mph

Ride right, pass left

Pedestrians always have the right-of-way

Slow down and stay in control

Look both ways before crossing

Lights are required when riding after dark or in low visibility

Some electric-powered bikes may look like bicycles but are actually motor vehicles under state law. These are not allowed on trails, sidewalks, bike paths in parks or greenspaces. E-motos can ride on city streets with valid driver’s license, insurance and registration.

Thank you

Shuttle Sponsor

Parking spaces will be limited near Ankeny Chamber SummerFest grounds. Please park at the DMACC campus and a shuttle will transport you to and from the entrance.

Shuttle

Times:

Friday, July 10th 3:30pm - 12:00am

Saturday, July 11th 10:30am-12:00am

Sunday, July 12th 12:30pm-11pm

Friday, July 17

Friday, July 24

Friday, July 31 6 to 10 p.m.

Friday, July 31 10 p.m. to midnight Following Sips & Songs

Thurs., July 30 featuring Lanie Gardner

Wednesdays: Yoga in the Park Through Sept. 30, 5:30 to 6:15 p.m.

Saturdays: July 18; July 25 August 1; August 8

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

(Except on Nash Nights) 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Vendors

Ankeny Chamber SummerFest Food/Beverage Vendors

1. Beverly Ann’s of Saylorville

2. Big Açaí Ankeny

3. Cottonwood Canyon

4. Dave’s Mini Donuts

5. G.G.’s Chicken & Waffles

6. Hardenbrook Concessions

7. Jethro’s BBQ n’ LakeHouse

8. Kona Ice of Central Iowa

9. Let’s Go Cookie Dough!

10. Los Primos Grill

11. Loudi’s Kitchen

12. Nopal Mexican Food

13. Papa Johns of Iowa

14. Sugar & Spin Cotton Candy

15. Sugarcane Fusion

16. Sweet Swirls Rolled Ice Cream

17. Syd’s Sweet ‘N Sips

18. Thai Street Food by Weena

19. The Outside Scoop

20. Whatcha Smokin? BBQ

21. WiseGuys Wood Fired Pizza

22. Yanni’s Grill

Ankeny Chamber SummerFest Information Vendors

1. Foss Swim School

2. Gideons International Ankeny

3. GoServ Global

4. New York Life - Kimberly Keller

5. Re-Bath of the Heartland

6. Renewal by Andersen

7. Rocket Carwash

8. School of Rock Ankeny

9. T-Fiber

10. The Wellness Way Ankeny

11. Urban Air Adventure Park

12. Vero Health Center

13. Waxing the City

Friday Schedule

Ankeny Chamber SummerFest

Grounds Open 4-11PM

4:00 PM

Orphan Annie & The Hot Mess

6:30 PM

The Schmidt Brothers

9:00 PM HEADLINER

Not Quite Brothers

Thank you

Friday Entertainment

Garden Sponsor

4:00 AYP Family Fun Night Activities Begin

5:30 Registration for Kiddie Parade

6:30 - 7:00 Kiddie Parade in Uptown Ankeny

7:00 - 8:00 AYP Family Fun Night Activities Resume

Join us for a night of free family fun in Uptown Ankeny! Ankeny Family Fun Night is packed with activities for all ages—crafts, vendor booths, inflatables, a fire truck, and more!

Don’t miss the Kiddie Parade at 6:30 PM! Costumes, wagons, and creativity for entries encouraged. Prizes will be awarded for best in show!

Bring the whole family and make memories at this high-energy summer celebration!

Family Play Area Ages 5-8 Sponsor

Presenting Sponsor

Check out These Vendor Tables

Ankeny Dental Professionals P.C.

Ankeny Orthodontists

Ankeny Young Professionals

Availa Bank

Holt Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electrical

Iowa Ortho

Lymphatic Care & Wellness

Coloring Contest

Kids celebrated with the annual Ankeny Chamber SummerFest Coloring Contest! Making the judges applaud and cheer at their creative coloring skills.

• Age Categories: 1-3, 4-6, and 7-10 years old.

• Winners will receive (1) Carnival Wristband and be recognized on stage Sunday, July 12th

Coloring Contest Sponsor

Kiddie Parade

Starting 6:30

@ The AMP In Uptown

Calling all kids (and parents)! Join us for the Family Fun Night Kiddie Parade and help keep the celebration rolling!

Registration opens at 5:30 PM in the AMP and parents must sign a waiver.

Kids can walk, ride bikes, scooters, wagons, electric cars, or anything with wheels—and parents are welcome to join in. Get creative with costumes or decorations! This year’s theme Jingle in July, so feel free to represent your favorite winter twist into your look.

The Chamber doesn’t provide candy or items to hand out, but participants are welcome to bring child-friendly giveaways if they wish.

Everyone’s welcome—come show off your creativity and join the fun! May the best entrants win!

Kiddie Parade Sponsor St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School

FOOD TRUCKS GAMES MUSIC

BEER TRUCK

11:15 AM Lip Sync Contest

1:00 PM School Of Rock 2:30 PM BS and The Liars 5:00 PM Bad Friends

Ankeny Chamber SummerFest Grounds Open 11AM-11PM

Saturday July 11 - Starts at 9am

Thank you to our Local Dignitaries for Joining in the Parade

City of Ankeny Honorable Mayor

Bobbi Bentz

City of Ankeny Mayor Pro Tem

Todd Shafer

City of Ankeny Council Members

Matt Davis

Justin Hollinrake

Dustin Graber

US House of Representatives

Zach Nunn

State of Iowa Representative

Bill Gustoff

State of Iowa Representative

Ryan Weldon

Polk County Supervisor

Mark Holm

Ankeny Community Schools

Board Members

Board President

Stephanie Gott

Vice President

Joy Burk

Katie Claeys

Jeff Schumacher

Shelly Northway

Erin Schneider

Amber Romans

Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman of Board 2026

Aaron Rickelman

Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce

Lifetime Impact 2025

Jeffrey Lamberti

Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce

Small Business Person of the Year 2025

Sue Hudson

Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Year 2025

Shevaughn Moore

Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce Ankeny Young Professional of the Year 2025 & SummerFest Co-Chair 2026

Aleah Engel

Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce SummerFest Co-Chair 2026

Cody Gabauer

Honorary Parade Marshal

Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce

Outstanding Citizen of the Year 2025

Matt Davis

Parade Judges

JoAnn Adamson

Kim Schaaf

Dr. Eric Pruitt

Parade Judge Coordinator

Alexa Middleton

2026 Grand Parade

Theme:

Our theme for 2026 is "Jingle in July" during the Ankeny Chamber SummerFest Grand Parade on Saturday, July 11, 2026, starting off at 9 AM. Whether you are a spectator or want to participate in the parade, we are excited to bring a parade to our Ankeny community in 2026!

Route:

The 2026 Grand Parade route will begin at Southview Middle School on SW Cherry St., travel North to NW Ash Dr., and end near Prairie Ridge Middle School.

Judging:

The winners will be announced on our website & Social Media, and will be awarded their trophies on stage at Ankeny Chamber SummerFest on Sunday, July 12th, at 4:30 PM.

Ankeny Chamber Summerfest Volunteer T-Shirt Sponsors

Caliber Homes, Dean Snyder Construction & T-Fiber

Volunteer Groups, Chamber Board, Committee Members & Staff

Platinum Grand Parade Sponsor

Thank you Video Screen Sponsors

Where Reality Intersects Imagination

INNOVATE AND SCALE YOUR BUSINESS BY PARTNERING WITH MURPHY ENTERPRIZES TAKE

Ankeny Chamber SummerFest Grounds Open 1-10PM 1:00 PM

The Sons of Gladys Kravitz 3:00 PM The Sheet

Koozie Sponsor Koozie Sponsor

Understanding Your Polk County Government

Public

HOW POLK COUNTY POWERS LOCAL SERVICES

What Does Polk County Do?

ROADS & BRIDGES

Maintains 696.5 miles of roads and 134 bridges countywide.

ELECTIONS

Administers local elections and oversees polling places and poll workers for federal, state, and local contests.

PUBLIC SAFETY & EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Provides law enforcement via the Polk County Sheriff's office.

Leads countywide emergency operations by unifying partners to manage resources, share information, and protect lives and property.

PARKS & CONSERVATION

Manages more than 17,000 acres of prairies, wetlands, woodlands, trails, and parks.

Offers year-round education and recreation programs, volunteer opportunities and trips.

DISASTER RESPONSE

HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

Delivers local public health programs and

connects residents to behavioral health and senior services.

Why These Services Matter

Dedicated emergency management agency leads local preparedness, response, and recovery.

PUBLIC RECORDS

Manages critical property and vital records: births, deaths, and marriages.

Polk County provides the essential services that keep daily life moving like safe roads, healthy communities, and fast emergency response. By managing critical infrastructure and public records, the county protects quality of life and strengthens every neighborhood through reliable, community‐focused services.