Solon Economist — 5.8.25

Timber Dome Lodge in Solon has become a hotspot for holding notable events

This unique spot in Solon has held events such as weddings, graduation parties, reunions, and more.

Reece Dolezal

For the Solon Economist

SOLON — When looking to celebrate some of life’s biggest moments, Solon residents often choose one place. That spot is the Timber Dome Lodge in the Solon Recreation and Nature Area (SRNA).

Lauren Legrand, a Cedar Rapids native, chose to hold her wedding in the Timber Dome Lodge in 2022. Legrand said her wedding venue of choice needed to meet certain criteria. First, she wanted the venue to have a lodge-like look to it. Second, the venue needed to appeal to the small wedding. Three, she also wanted the venue to be a little out of town.

Rudy steals the show

Rudy, the JCSO’s Crisis Response Canine, gets to know Guillermo Romano-Ibarra and Veronica Stafford, both of Solon, during an open house this past Saturday at the Solon substation located at 223 S. Iowa St. Rudy, the JCSO’s Crisis Response Canine, was the center of attention during an open house this past Saturday at the Solon substation located at 223 S. Iowa St.

JCSO Crisis Canine takes the spotlight at Solon open house

Chris Umscheid Solon Economist chris.umscheid@soloneconomist.com

SOLON — Last November the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) opened a substation in Solon at 223 S. Iowa St. The building (named in honor of former mayor Steve Stange), which has served as Solon’s first firehouse and home to Solon’s own police force (complete with a jail cell), city hall, and library; provides space for deputies to complete their reports (without having to drive to Iowa City) and meet with people in private.

Last Saturday the JCSO held an open house at the substation with tours, donuts, and games for kids.

The star of the event however, was Rudy, the JCSO’s Crisis Response Canine, who appeared in his full working uniform complete with his own JCSO Deputy’s badge.

“He’s a mixed breed, about two years old and we’ve had him for about two years,” said Detective Sergeant Alissa Schuerer, Rudy’s trained handler.

Rudy has a different assignment from most law enforcement K-9’s. He doesn’t chase down criminals, or search for explosives or drugs. Instead, Rudy is trained for compassion and consoling.

“We utilize him for a couple different things,” said Schuerer. “One being victims and witnesses of crime. We

utilize him to help lessen their anxiety and make it easier to report things. We also use him for first responders after they’ve been through a critical incident as a way to de-stress and ease their mental health. There’s science that shows being around a dog increases the good hormones in our brains and lessens the harmful hormones.” Rudy is also an ambassador for the JCSO appearing at community engagements and events, such as the open house. Schuerer explained the JCSO went through Crisis Canines of the Midlands (https://crisiscaninesmidlands.org), a non-profit organization, to acquire Rudy. As a reminder the office is not staffed routinely. To arrange to meet with a deputy call 319-356-6800 (for non-emergencies only). In an emergency, dial 9-1-1.

Mobile bar services popular for Eastern Iowa events

Two vendors approved for licenses for Celebration Farm event

Colin Votzmeyer

For the Solon Economist

IOWA CITY — Just like food trucks, mobile bar services are increasingly popular for weddings, reunions and other parties in Iowa.

The Tipsy Traveler’s, a mobile bar service out of Keota that started in 2022, now provides alcohol service at about 100 gigs a year, Owner Megan Libe said.

“We are booked every weekend,” she said. “I never thought it would be where it is today.”

The Johnson County Board of Supervisors April 24 approved liquor licenses for Tipsy Traveler’s and Wheely Boozy, a Davenport-based bar service, to serve alcohol at events at the Celebration Farm, west of Highway 1 between Iowa City and Solon.

Celebration Farm, which opened in 2011 and has a dou-

ble round bar, an amphitheater and a timber frame barn available to rent, does not serve alcohol. Instead, guests who reserve the spaces must get a license themselves or hire a vendor with a liquor license.

To get a license, applicants must file with the state Alcoholic Beverages Division and the county or city where the event will be held. Because Celebration Farm is in an unincorporated area, the application goes to Johnson County, Deputy Auditor Eric VanLancker said.

Some of the other venues to get liquor licenses from

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Joanne Straumanis. Joanne, 84, of Tipton, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at the Solon Care Center in Solon. She was born July 20, 1940, in Iowa City, the daughter of Richard M. and Jaromila Rozinek Krob. As the eldest and only daughter, Joanne shared a special bond with her three younger brothers, despite significant age differences of 5, 15, and 18 years.

Joanne graduated from Solon High School in 1958, excelling academically and athletically. She loved playing basketball, and participated in the state free throw shooting competition. Following high school, she attended the Iowa State Teachers College (The University of Northern Iowa), where she earned a bachelor’s degree. Joanne went on to teach middle school mathematics before dedicating herself full-time to raising her family.

On June 22, 1963, Joanne married Juris Straumanis at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Solon. Together, they built a life centered on family and shared values. The couple was blessed with two sons, Eric and Alex, who recall their mother’s steadfast love and support throughout their lives. Joanne also took great pride in her grandchildren, August, Iyla, Olivia, and Ben.

Joanne was very involved in her sons’ activities and tirelessly attended all of their athletic events and music performances. She took interest in their friends and made the home an open and inviting space. Joanne was active in her community and church, and, as a member of St. Mary’s Church of Tipton, she taught catechism classes and participated in parish activities. She was involved in mentoring students at Tipton High School, volunteering her time to provide guidance and support.

Joanne enjoyed golfing and teaching junior golf at the Tipton Country Club. She loved supporting High School athletics and attending Iowa sporting events. She loved coffee with friends and maintained a large social network throughout her entire life. In more recent years she enjoyed traveling with her husband, friends and family members. Memorable trips included visits to the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, and Iowa bowl games.

Joanne is survived by her husband, Juris Straumanis; her sons, Eric (wife Kara) Straumanis and Alex (wife Jamie) Straumanis; her grandchildren, August, Iyla, Olivia, and Ben; her brothers Jim (wife Donna) Krob, David (wife Kaye) Krob and Dan (wife Sue) Krob; and many other loving family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Jaromila Krob.

A Celebration of Life in Joanne’s honor will be held at a later date. Online condolences, photographs, and memories may be shared at www.fryfuneralhome.com.

Joanne will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her.

COLLEGE NEWS

Werning recognized by Iowa Broadcast News Association

Emily Christensen Warburg College

WAVERLY — Jacy Werning of Solon was recognized at the Iowa Broadcast News Association's annual conference in April.

Werning received third place in Public Affairs for her capstone documentary about human trafficking in Iowa. KWAR, the college's radio station, received second in the Overall Excellence category, and the Knight Vision staff earned a third-place finish in Political Coverage for their election special.

KWAR is advised by Pam Ohrt, and Knight Vision News is advised by Ron Johnson. Lucas Wendland is the broadcast engineer. Wartburg student media is under the guidance of the Wartburg College Department of Journalism and Communication, chaired by Penni Pier.

Wartburg College, a four-year liberal arts college internationally recognized for community engagement, enrolls about 1,500 students. A college of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Wartburg is dedicated to challenging and nurturing students for lives of leadership and service as a spirited expression of their faith and learning. The college is characterized by vigorous academic expectations and community engagement within an environment of strong personal support.

Garage sale season has arrived and it’s time to get your Solon Area Garage Sale registered with the Friends of the Library. The annual sale is hosted by the Friends Friday, June 6, and Saturday, June 7. You can find the registration details and form on our website, www.solon.lib.ia.us, and click on the “Solon Area Garage Sale” button.

Library Events

Don’t miss Saturday Storytime Saturday, May 10, at 10:30 a.m. at the Library! We’ll enjoy books, songs, and games together. While our stories and songs are geared toward 2-5 year olds, Saturday Storytime is for all ages on the 2nd Saturday of the month.

Emerging readers are encouraged to register for a timeslot to Read with Willa the Dog at the Library. Willa is a French Bulldog, trained as a therapy dog and she loves to provide comfort and snuggles to friends. Visit our online calendar to find an available timeslot and register your reader.

Try your skills at Macrame this month at DIY Night Tuesday, May 13, at 6:30 p.m. Participants will learn a few basic knots and create a macrame key chain. This is a great way to learn or refresh your skills before tackling a bigger challenge. DIY Night is for adults and young adults (16+), registration is required.

Early-out Thursdays at the Library are all about the kids! BAM POW activities begin at 1:45 for 1st through 8th graders, walk over to the Library after school to Build and Make, Play or Watch with us! As we look ahead to the end of the school year, please note the final after school program dates. Tuesday, May 20, will be the final Switch & Social programs for teens. And Thursday, May 22, will be the final BAM POW program for kids.

We’re holding a special Coffee & Community Conversations, Wednesday, May 21, at 9:00 a.m. to discuss accessibility needs. How can we help you access the Library, our materials, programs and services? Enjoy coffee, treats, and great conversation!

Summer Reading is right around the corner! Our librarians have been busy planning fun programs for the summer and we can’t wait to enjoy them with you. Join us Friday, May 30, at 6:00 p.m. to kick-off the start of summer and our summer reading program! We'll enjoy a foam party, sprinkler, and yard games on the Library lawn. Pick up your reading logs, calendar, and brochure to get all the details of the summer. Our Summer Reading Program runs from June 1 through July 31. Level Up at Your Library!

Library Access

Regular Library hours are Monday-Thursday, 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 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.

We are open Friday, May 23, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. to allow time for our monthly staff in-service.

We are closed Monday, May 26, in observance of Memorial Day.

Everyone is welcome at the Library and our programs. Please contact us with access needs.

What’s New?

Make it movie night! Check out a movie and even a DVD or Blu-ray player from the Library. You supply the popcorn!

A Complete Unknown. New York, 1961. Against the backdrop of a vibrant music scene and tumultuous cultural upheaval, an enigmatic 19-year-old from Minnesota named Bob Dylan (Timothee Chalamet) arrives with his guitar and revolutionary talent, destined to change the course of American music. He forges intimate relationships with music icons of Greenwich Village on his meteoric rise, culminating in a groundbreaking and controversial performance that reverberates worldwide. [Rated R] Available in Blu-ray only.

Paddington in Peru . Paddington returns to Peru to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy, who now resides at the Home for Retired Bears. With the Brown family in tow, a thrilling adventure ensues when a mystery plunges them into an unexpected journey. [Rated PG]

We Live in Time. Almut (Florence Pugh) and Tobias (Andrew Garfield) are brought together in a surprise encounter that changes their lives. Through snapshots of their life together, falling for each other, building a home, becoming a family a difficult truth is revealed that rocks its foundation. As they embark on a path challenged by the limits of time, they learn to cherish each moment of the unconventional route their love story has taken, in filmmaker John Crowley's decade-spanning, deeply moving romance. [Rated R] Available in Blu-ray only.

Gov. Reynolds signs HF 782, bill to limit cell phones in schools into law

Mason Mauro Office of the Governor

DES MOINES— Last Wednesday, Governor Kim Reynolds signed HF 782, an Act relating to electronic devices in schools, including student access during instructional hours and school safety plans and including effective date provisions.

“The data tells us Gen Z spends six hours per day on their phones. 72% of high school teachers say cell phone distractions are a major problem in the classroom,” Gov. Reynolds said. “As many schools around the state who have enacted their own cell phone policies have already seen, these changes will not only improve the learning environment for students, but the social interactions they have with each other and their teachers. For example, at Hoover High School in Des Moines, they’ve seen As and Bs increase by 14% schoolwide, the failure rate cut in half, falling to 12%, and out of school

suspension rates are down 60%. I can’t wait to see the results a year from now.”

HF 782 prohibits cell phones during

instructional time and includes commonsense exceptions to accommodate students with disabilities, English language learners, and those with individual education plans. The bill is effective upon enactment.

SPORTS

BOYS' SOCCER

Spartans fall to Bobcats

Solon Economist

SOLON — The varsity boys slipped to 4-7-0 on the season with a pair of losses last week.

Benton Community visited Tuesday, April 29 and took a 2-1 victory over Solon. Ethan Ulch, a junior, scored Solon’s goal in the second period while keeper Zander Stookey, a senior, made six saves.

The Spartans traveled to Tiffin Friday, May 2, to face their WaMaC West rivals Clear Creek Amana falling 1-0. The loss dropped Solon to 4-7 while the Clippers improved to 6-2-2.

GIRLS' SOCCER

Upcoming schedule

Thursday, May 8 – At Marion HS, 5:00 p.m.

Saturday, May 10 – HOME vs. Mount Vernon, 11:00 a.m.

Monday, May 12 – HOME vs. Marquette Catholic, 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, May 13 – At South Tama HS, 7:00 pm.

Postseason

Tuesday, May 20 – Class 2A Substate Quarterfinals

Tuesday, May 27 – Class 2A Substate Semifinals

Thursday, May 29 – Class 2A Substate Finals

Monday, June 2 – Class 2A State Quarterfinals

Wednesday, June 4 – Class 2A State Semifinals, Mediacom Stadium, Des Moines

Friday, June 6 – Class 2A State Championship, Mediacom Stadium, Des Moines

WaMaC East standings

Lady Spartans dominate Bobcats, tie with Clippers

Solon Economist

SOLON — The varsity girls soccer team broke a three-game losing streak with a 9-0 win over Benton Community Tuesday, April 29, at

Senior Elena Swann struck first roughly eight minutes into the match making it 1-0 for the Lady Spartans. Rose McAtee bombed the Bobcats four minutes later for the first of three goals and a Penalty Kick (PK) for the senior forward. Swann scored with an assist from McAtee with 26:18 left in the first half to make it 3-0.

McAtee took an assist from Sofia Ortega to score with 18:51 to go and got the hat trick five minutes later. Addi Greene, a senior, found the back of the Bobcats’ net with 12 minutes left in the half as she redirected a corner kick from Ortega to make it 6-0.

Benton came out swinging in the second half, attacking Solon’s goal in the first minute, but were denied a goal by junior keeper Gable Knight. Greene took an assist from Ortega to score with 25 minutes remaining in the match for a 7-0 advantage. McAtee rocketed her PK shot past Benton’s sophomore keeper Haley McMahon with 21:43 remaining while Ortega buried the ball in the corner of Benton’s net with 13:32 left to play for the 9-0 score.

The win improved Solon’s record to 4-5-1 while Benton dropped to 2-6-3.

Upcoming schedule

Thursday, May 8 – At Marion HS, 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 10 – HOME vs. Mount Vernon, 9:30 a.m.

Monday, May 12 – HOME vs. Marquette Catholic, 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday, May 13 – At South Tama HS, 5:00 p.m.

Postseason

Monday, May 19 – Class 1A Regional 1st Round

Wednesday, May 21 – Class 1A Quarterfinals

Tuesday, May 27 – Class 1A Semifinals

Thursday, May 29 – Class 1A Finals

Tuesday, June 3 – Class 1A State Tournament, ISU, Ames

Thursday, June 5 – Class 1A State Tournament, ISU, Ames

Saturday, June 7 – Class 1A State Championship, ISU, Ames

Solon boys’ strong defensive showing not enough as they fall to Clear Creek Amana

Jonah Frey For the Solon Economist

TIFFIN — With rain coated bleachers, lingering clouds, and a cool breeze, Friday was not an ideal night for weather at Clear Creek Amana High School. Unfortunately for the Solon fans who made the short trip, it was not an ideal night for Spartans boys soccer either.

The Clear Creek Amana Clippers emerged victorious over the Solon Spartans in a Friday night boys soccer clash, winning 1-0 thanks to a Teegan Michel goal with 25 minutes remaining in the game. Solon created their own fair share of chances throughout the match, but the Michel goal took the wind out of the Spartan’s sails as the boys in white and orange weren’t able to find the chance they needed to draw the game level.

“The defense has been consistent all year,” said Head Coach Eyasu Russell. “It’s just too much work for them back there. We have to get them more help from the midfield and forwards.”

The Spartans displayed an impressive defensive performance while facing an abundance of pressure from the Clippers throughout the game. The defense finally cracked as a crucial giveaway inside of their own box led to the game’s only goal. Solon was unable to possess the ball for very long the entirety of the game, leaving the defenders with minimal time to catch their breath.

The Spartan boys have faced many challenges throughout the season. After Friday night’s loss, Solon’s record fell to 4-7.

“We’re overcoming playing with injuries as well as being young and learning the game,” said Coach Russell. “Overall

they played great, we just need to get more guys involved sooner.”

The Spartans have been tested with some tough competition already this season, and it won’t ease up any time soon. Four of their five remaining opponents have a record of .500 or better.

“It’s going to be more challenging,” said Coach Russell. “We have to come out and learn how to play quickly.”

Solon’s struggles finding the back of the net have continued throughout the season. If their ball possessing and attack can come together, the Spartans can pose a real threat to their remaining opponents.

Solon girls' soccer leaves Clear Creek Amana disappointed with draw

Solon, CCA tie 1-1

Jonah Frey

For the Solon Economist

As the clouds cleared and the sun set Friday night at Clear Creek Amana High School, the Solon Lady Spartans seemed well on the way to their second win in a row after a strong first half performance against the Clear Creek Amana (CCA) Clippers. However, moments after the second half kickoff, disaster struck for the Spartans.

After a Rose McAtee goal in the first half, the Spartans were caught slacking to open up the second half. Less than a minute into the half, CCA stunned the Spartans with a goal of their own, leveling the game at 1-1. From there, the Clippers displayed an impressive defensive performance to savor the draw and avoid what would have been their eighth loss of the season.

“I’m not satisfied with the outcome,” said Spartans Head Coach Amanda Paulson. “I thought we had a great first half. We didn’t settle the game soon enough and we have to find ways to finish so we don’t put ourselves in that situation.”

The Spartans truly dominated the first half. You would run out of fingers if you tried to count the amount of golden opportunities they had in front of goal. On the bright side for Solon, they did a tremendous job of creating those opportunities.

“We’ve really been working on our transitional movement up top and creativity of our runs,” said Coach Paulson. “We saw a lot more of that tonight

and I’m happy about that.”

The second half was different, as Clear Creek Amana did an overall good job of neutralizing Solon’s blistering attack.

“In the second half, Clear Creek Amana came out with a lot of energy,” said Coach Paulson. “We played a lot into their direct play causing more chaos.”

In a game full of positives for the Spartans, the one learning point was clear: converting opportunities.

The Spartans still have plenty of opportunities to prove themselves before the end of the regular season. At home, they will face a struggling Grinnell team on Tuesday before traveling to 13th ranked Marion on Thursday.

The Spartans are 4-5-2, but don’t let their record deceive you. This team has some serious talent.

“At the end of the day I would rather see us continue to build momentum as we move into the last part of the season than flatten out,” said Paulson. “I think we’re continuing to improve and come together as a team.”

Editor’s note -Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union and Iowa High School Athletic Association rules this season have eliminated overtime and PK periods during the regular season. OT and PK shoot outs are allowed in postseason play.

Cost of this publication: $400.71

Fiscal year to date cost: $14953.16

THE JOHNSON COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

FORMAL MEETING MINUTES

APRIL 24, 2025

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, Mandi Remington, and Rod Sullivan.

Motion by Remington, second by Green-Douglass, to approve the agenda as presented. Approved unanimously. Public

Wellmark

2. The minutes of the Formal Meeting for April 16 and April 17, 2025.

3. Payroll authorizations submitted by department heads and elected officials.

4. Acknowledge receipt of Minutes of the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting of March 10, 2025, and the Report of the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting of April 14, 2025.

5. Receive and place on file with the County Auditor the County Recorder’s Report of Fees Collected for March 2025 in the amount of $239,807.13, as submitted by County Recorder Kim Painter.

6. Alcohol License Renewal Application for Lake Shore Entertainment, dba Bobbers Grill.

7. Alcohol License Application for Tipsy Travelers for an event at the Celebration Farm.

8. Alcohol License Application for Wheely Boozy for an event at the Celebration Farm.

Approved unanimously.

PROCLAMATION NO. 04-24-25-01

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTHMAY 2025

Summary: The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness and NAMI’s Mental Health Awareness Month 2025 theme is “In Every Story, There’s Strength”, which highlights the resilience and diverse experiences that shape mental health journeys within our community. Board action: Proclaim May 2025, as Mental Health Awareness Month in Johnson County, Iowa, and urge all residents to increase the awareness and understanding of mental health and be informed of the treatment options available in our county for individuals with mental illness. Motion by Sullivan, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to approve Proclamation No. 04-24-25-01. Approved unanimously. The following NAMI Johnson County representatives spoke: Executive Director Mary Issa; R Place staff Leann Cortimiglia & Todd Foldesi; Board President-Elect Joanna Sinnwell.

PROCLAMATION NO. 04-24-25-02

PROVIDER APPRECIATION DAY MAY 9, 2025

Summary: Childcare Workforce Professionals play an important role in cultivating, supporting, and educating young children in warm, loving, and culturally competent environments in a home- and center-based settings to meet the needs of families and Johnson County recognizes the Childcare Workforce as essential for our economy, which allows families access to the care needed so they can work. Board action: Proclaim May 9, 2025, as Provider Appreciation Day in Johnson County, Iowa, and encourages residents to recognize the Childcare Workforce throughout the state for their dedication to providing quality early care and learning services, and for the important role they play in our children’s future. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve Proclamation No. 04-24-25-02. Approved unanimously. 4Cs of Johnson County Executive Director Missie Forbes spoke.

RESOLUTION NO. 04-24-25-01

SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING ON VARIOUS DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS

Summary: The Johnson County Planning and Zoning Commission made recommendations after a recent public hearing. Board action: Set a public hearing for May 15, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. CT in Boardroom 301, Johnson County Health & Human Services Building, 855 South Dubuque Street,

Iowa City, Iowa, on the following applications: a. Zoning application filed by Brett & Jennifer Kiene (PZC-24-28636); b. Platting applications filed by Brett & Jennifer Kiene (PZC-24-28638), and Willis E. Schlabach (PZC-25-28656) and authorize the County Auditor to publish the notice of the hearing. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Sullivan, to approve Resolution No. 04-24-2501. Approved unanimously. Convened Public Hearing at 9:27 a.m. on the proposed plans, specifications, form of contract, and estimated total cost for the Fleet Shop Expansion Project located at 4810 Melrose Avenue, Iowa City. Project Architect Dan Rice and County Facilities Director Dave Curtis were present to answer questions. No one from the public spoke. Public Hearing closed at 9:32 a.m.

RESOLUTION NO. 04-24-25-02

APPROVING PROPOSED PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, FORM OF CONTRACT, AND ESTIMATED TOTAL COST FOR, AND REQUESTING BIDS FOR THE FLEET SHOP EXPANSION PROJECT, LOCATED AT 4810 MELROSE AVENUE, IOWA CITY, JOHNSON COUNTY, IOWA

Summary: A public hearing was conducted April 24, 2025, for proposed plans, specifications, and form of contract and estimated total cost for the proposed Fleet Shop Expansion Project, located at 4810 Melrose Avenue, in Iowa City. Board action: Approve the plans, specifications, contract form and estimate for the project, solicit sealed bids and authorize the County Auditor to publish the notice to bidders. Motion by Sullivan, second by Green-Douglass, to approve Resolution No. 04-24-25-02. Approved unanimously.

RESOLUTION NO. 04-24-25-03

Establishing a Temporary County Redistricting Commission of Three Members Summary: Senate File 75 was signed into law forcing Johnson County to elect its County Supervisors using the “plan three” style in the Code of Iowa which requires supervisor districts to be drawn and therefor a County Redistricting Committee to be appointed. Board action: Set the County Redistricting Committee size at three members. Motion by Remington, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to approve Resolution No. 04-24-25-03. Approved unanimously.

Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Remington, to approve the Second Amendment to the Community Partnership for Protecting Children Contract, DCAT4- 24001, between Johnson County Social Services and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, in an amount not to exceed $20,000.

Motion by Green-Douglass, second by Remington, to approve the Fourth Amendment to the Coordination Services for Johnson County Decategorization Contract, DCAT4-23-00, between Johnson County Social Services and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, in an amount not to exceed $15,000. Approved unanimously.

Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve the revised job description and pay grade for the position of Conservation Department Operations Superintendent, effective April 24, 2025. Approved unanimously.

Motion by Green-Douglass, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to approve 2025 Youth Empowered to Serve (YES!) Agreement with Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County, Iowa City, for the summer work program in an amount not to exceed $33,000. Approved unanimously.

Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Remington, to approve Change Order No.003 for Johnson County Historic Poor Farm Kitchen Project with Peak Construction Group, Inc., North Liberty, in the amount of $45,655.69. Approved unanimously.

RESOLUTION NO. 04-24-25-04

EXPRESSING INTENT TO AUTHORIZE

LOAN AGREEMENTS AND ISSUE

BONDS IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED

$20,840,000

Summary: The County Board of Supervisors has proposed to enter into loan agreements not to exceed $20,840,000 for paying for various county insurance programs, funding the Housing Trust of Johnson County, making emergency basis building restoration to the County Jail, making ADA improvements to County buildings, making improvements to technology, remodeling at the County Farm historic site and grounds, improvements to the SEATS Garage, various repairs to County buildings, acquire peace officer communications equipment and acquiring and developing County Conservation land with public access. Board action: The Board expresses its intent to enter loan agreements not to exceed $20,840,000. Motion by Sullivan, second by Fixmer-Oraiz, to approve Resolution No. 04-24-25-04. RESOLUTION NO. 04-24-25-05 DEPARTMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026

Summary: The Board must appropriate the departmental funds for the Fiscal Year 2026. Board action: Appropriate amounts itemized by Fund, Department and Service Area on the scheduled provided and on file in the County Auditor’s Office for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, from the resources of each fund is so itemized. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Sullivan, to approve Resolution No. 04-24-25-05. Approved unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 04-24-25-06 TRANSFERRING FROM THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT-STANDARD ALLOWANCE FUND TO THE GENERAL BASIC FUND IN THE FY26 BUDGET

Summary: American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) program monies earn interest which is not subject to program restrictions. Board action: Authorize the County Auditor to transfer an amount not to exceed $2,000,000 from the ARPA fund to the General Basic Fund during FY26. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve Resolution No. 04-24-25-06. Approved unanimously.

RESOLUTION NO. 04-24-25-07

DESIGNATING FUNDS TO BE TRANSFERRED FROM THE GENERAL BASIC FUND TO THE CAPITAL EXPENDITURES FUND IN THE FY26 BUDGET

Summary: The Board proposes making transfers from the General Basic Fund to the Capital Expenditures Fund per the Code of Iowa. Board action: Authorize the County Auditor to transfer an amount not to exceed $2,970,000 from General Basic Fund to the Capital Expenditures Fund during FY26. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve Resolution No. 04-24-25-07. Approved unanimously.

RESOLUTION NO. 04-24-25-08

DESIGNATING FUNDS TO BE TRANSFERRED FROM THE GENERAL BASIC FUND TO THE CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND IN THE FY26 BUDGET

Summary: The Board proposes making transfers from the General Basic Fund to the Capital Projects Fund per the Code of Iowa. Board action: Authorize the County Auditor to transfer an amount not to exceed $4,677,255 from General Basic Fund to the Capital Projects Fund during FY26. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve Resolution No. 04-24-2508. Approved unanimously.

RESOLUTION NO. 04-24-25-09

DESIGNATING FUNDS TO BE TRANSFERRED FROM THE GENERAL BASIC FUND TO THE ENERGY REINVESTMENT FUND IN THE FY26 BUDGET

Summary: The Board proposes making transfers from the General Basic Fund to the Energy Reinvestment fund per the Code of Iowa. Board action: Authorize the County Auditor to transfer an amount not to exceed $25,000 from General Basic Fund to the Energy Reinvestment fund during FY26. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve Resolution No. 04-24-25-09. Approved unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 04-24-25-10

DESIGNATING FUNDS TO BE TRANSFERRED FROM THE GENERAL BASIC FUND TO THE SECONDARY ROADS FUND IN THE FY26 BUDGET Summary: The Board proposes making transfers from the General Basic Fund to the Secondary Roads Fund per the Code of Iowa. Board action: Authorize the County Auditor to transfer an amount not to exceed $1,729,814 from General Basic Fund to the Secondary Roads Fund during FY26. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve Resolution No. 04-24-25-10. Approved unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 04-24-25-11 DESIGNATING FUNDS TO BE TRANSFERRED FROM THE GENERAL BASIC FUND TO THE TECHNOLOGY FUND IN THE FY26 BUDGET Summary: The Board proposes making transfers from the General Basic Fund to the Technology Fund per the Code of Iowa. Board action: Authorize the County Auditor to transfer an amount not to exceed $2,982,741 from General Basic Fund to the Technology Fund during FY26. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve Resolution No. 04-24-25-11. Approved unanimously.

RESOLUTION NO. 04-24-25-12

DESIGNATING FUNDS

amount not to exceed $12,771,219 from General Supplemental Fund to the General Basic Fund during FY26. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve Resolution No. 04-24-25-12. Approved unanimously.

RESOLUTION

Secondary Roads fund per the Code of Iowa. Board action: Authorize the County Auditor to transfer an amount not to exceed $5,782,971 from Rural Basic Fund to the Secondary Roads Fund during FY26. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve Resolution No. 04-24-25-13. Approved unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 04-24-25-14 FISCAL YEAR 2026 BIWEEKLY SALARIES FOR ELECTED OFFICIALS Summary: The Johnson County Compensation Board met and provided recommendations to the Board of Supervisors for compensation for elected officials for FY26. Board action: Accept and approve the FY26 elected officials’ salaries as recommended as the following scheduled biweekly salary County Attorney, $8,255.33; County Auditor, $5,527.41; County Recorder, $5,527.41; County Treasurer, $5,527.41; County Sheriff, $8,001.11; County Supervisors, $3,935.94. Motion by Fixmer-Oraiz, second by Green-Douglass, to approve Resolution No. 04-24-25-14. Approved unanimously.

RESOLUTION NO. 04-24-25-15 ADOPTING THE FISCAL YEAR 2026

Taking big ideas and making them happen

Solon hosts Community Horizon's Speaker Series

Cami Rasmussen

Solon City Administrator

SOLON — Tuesday, April 29, community development expert Deb Brown was in Solon as part of the Community Horizon's Speaker Series coordinated by Greater Iowa City and Johnson County. Deb is an author and co-founder of https://saveyour.town/

This speaker series is focused on rural development with several of the area small towns helping to plan this speaker series schedule.

Deb Brown and Sarah Thompson (Johnson County Economic Development Coordinator), were in toured the Solon community and attended the Solon Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting.

As part of the Planning and Zoning meeting Deb Brown led those present through an exercise of taking big ideas and how to move those ideas forward in

the small community.

The last speaker event of the series will be held Wednesday, June 11, at Big Grove Brewpub in Solon.

The session is titled Small town Big Dreams - Real Iowa Success Stories/Preparing Your City for Success and will feature Doug GoettschCo-founder of Big Grove Brewery, Cheryl MaloneyOwner of The Eat Shop bakery, and City Administrator Cami Rasmussen.

The session is open to the public and here will be a pre-registration for the event, which will be a 'lunch and learn' format with a light lunch served. The event is free.

We encourage those interested in opening a small business and want to learn more about how to start a business in a small town, to attend and hear how Big Grove Brewery and The Eat Shop got their start in Solon.

(From

Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) Member Julia Lange, Al

City

Rasmusen, Deb Brown, City Clerk Susie Siddell, City Engineer Dave Schechinger, P&Z Member Rob

Member Sara Highly, and P&Z Member Cathy Noska. Brown spoke Tuesday, April 29 as part of the Community Horizon’s Speaker Series, focused on rural development and revitalizing small towns.

Governor signs law overhauling Johnson County supervisor elections

Senate File 75 transitions Johnson County from atlarge to district-based elections for county supervisors.

Jacob Calvin The Daily Iowan

County Supervisors listen to an annual update by the Johnson County Historic Preservation Commission during the Johnson County work session in Iowa City on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. Wyatt Goodale

County Supervisors listen to an annual update by the Johnson County Historic Preservation Commission during the Johnson County work session in Iowa City on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025.

On April 10, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed Senate File 75 into law, requiring counties housing a public university, specifically Johnson (University of Iowa), Story (Iowa State University), and Black Hawk counties (University of Northern Iowa), to transition from an at-large to district-based election for county supervisors.

In at-large elections, residents could vote for all three open supervisor seats. Now, residents will vote for the county supervisor seat in their newly created district. Johnson County will be split up into five districts, each split based on the 2020 census.

Final district maps are due by December 31, 2025, and remain undetermined as of now. Additionally, each of the five supervisors will be up for election in 2026, rather than the usual two to three seats.

“I think it’s a constitutional violation of the equal protection clause,” Jon Green, Johnson County Board Chairman, said. “This legislation only targets counties with regent institutions. It’s basically 150 legislators saying, ‘Hey, we know better than the 160,000 residents of Johnson County.’”

Green said the at-large system for electing supervisors has been in place for more than 50 years. Changes to the supervisor structure have occurred before, such as Linn County reducing its supervisor count from five to three following public requests in 2019.

Green hopes that if the public disagrees with the change, they will take it up with Iowa’s House and Senate.

“I think it would be very fascinating to see how things would play out if citizens did present a petition demanding that we go back to plan one,” he said. “I think that might spark a court fight, which would find Senate File 75 to be unconstitutional.”

Johnson County Supervisor Rod Sullivan also disapproved of the bill.

“I think it’s unfortunate legislation because I think it unfairly singles out the voters in three Iowa counties,” he said. “I think anytime you do something like that, that’s really bad legislation. If it’s good legislation, it should be good for all 99 [counties].”

Sullivan believes the bill, specifically aimed at counties with regent universities, sets a dangerous precedent in the state legislature.

“It’s just wrong to use the government to target one group of people,” he said. “I would hope that when Democrats take control, and someday they will, they won’t do the same thing.”

For Supervisor V Fixmer-Oraiz, the bill is not surprising given what they see as a pattern of legislation enabling increasing state overreach over the years.

They cited House File 295, which restricted the county’s ability to keep the minimum wage in line with the state’s, but also smaller bills that would take away the county’s ability to manage stormwater regulations.

“The state is now proposing bills that will take away the ability for us to do that,” they said. “That’s not something that’s necessarily going to make the front news, but it is something that’s important to

our residents, and especially as Johnson County, we highly value our clean waters and our healthy soils.”

They also criticized other aspects of the bill, such as the requirement that the board must now hold special elections for vacant seats rather than appointing a new member themselves. Fixmer-Oraiz worries the special elections, which can cost up to hundreds of thousands of dollars, will hurt the wallets of Johnson County residents.

“I think it sets a precedent that is dangerous, quite frankly,” they said. “And again, it is targeting, taking away local control from the residents, from the local governments who serve those residents.”