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Local Columns

A Fair View

Well, after the week of July 6-13 with all the turmoil it sounded like Tama County might be going in the right direction to save some money. Supervisors Mark Doland and David Turner were ready to stop litigation. So it was placed on the agenda for the Monday, July 14 meeting. But they decided ...

On Nature: Birds and light

Twice each year, billions of birds migrate between their winter and summer homes, and most fly at night, using the night sky to help them navigate. During the day they rest and feed before taking off again when night falls. Artificial light at night and skyglow around cities can disorient ...

Pastor’s Column: My Endorsement

I write this column having just received the news that the IRS has asked a judge to create an exception to the Johnson Amendment, which currently prevents churches from campaigning for or against political candidates or parties. Opponents of this motion point out that it will lead to a cascade ...

A Fair View

I was gone for a couple weeks, but I’m back. The Tama County Board of Supervisors meeting on Monday was a good one and had a mixed group of people. There was a lot of talk about appointing the Board of Adjustment and Zoning Board. When it comes to (former Zoning Commissioner) Craig Sash ...

Heather’s Highlights: County Government and You, June 2025

I hope you are having a great summer! My family has been enjoying extra time together during summer break. The Tama County Board of Supervisors had been made aware that the Landfill and Economic Development departments in Tama County have been paying higher insurance premiums than other ...

Dengler Domain: Fourth of July

July 4th is one of the best holidays on this planet. It is the best because it is the celebration of this country’s independence. For all the warts and issues this country has, I am a strong believer in the United States. While we are all using our right of self-determination to struggle to ...

Dengler Domain: Water System

After growing up on well water and witnessing it change my white basketball and football jerseys to an off-white color, I thought I would never worry about the impact of water again. Despite having the largest nitrate removal facility in the world, my water provider, Central Iowa Water Works, ...

Dengler Domain: Busch Light

The only time I have been to Las Vegas, if you are not counting passing through the airport, was for work training. While out in this desert city for a couple of days, I saw the sights and explored this unique city. While all the distinct types of casinos were interesting to see, ranging in ...

On Nature: Arctic oil and clean energy

Part of President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act that is being considered by the Senate is a provision that would allow oil drilling in the fragile coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Drilling would jeopardize one of the world’s last unspoiled places at a time when we ...

Heather’s Highlights: County Government and You, May 2025

School is out and summertime is welcomed! The Board of Supervisors had a productive and busy month. Laura Wilson has been hired as the new Zoning Administrator/Weed Commissioner. Laura has jumped right into the role and is doing a great job, ensuring the Tama County Zoning Ordinance is being ...