Marion Introduces Automated Curbside Waste Collection and Other Government Updates
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Marion city in Iowa is shifting to automated curbside collection of garbage, recycling and yard waste. Mechanical arms in trucks will collect solid waste from standardized carts issued by the city, making the process more efficient and sustainable. Previously, each of Marion’s waste collectors serviced between 400 and 500 houses every weekday.
Marion’s Automated Garbage Collection Commences
Marion city has started its automated curbside collection of garbage, recycling, and yard waste. The city aims to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of their solid waste collection process by using mechanical arms on their collection trucks. In a $1.8 million contract with North Carolina-based Toter, the city council approved this initiative back in June.
To facilitate the transition, Mayor Kim Downs requests patience from residents. Furthermore, she notes the project will affect nearly every Marion household and has been years in the making. As part of the transition, approximately 14.5% of households will have a change in collection day, and residents can check their route at www.cityofmarion.org/automatedcollection.
Prairie Summit YMCA Groundbreaking
The College Community School District is set to begin construction on a new Prairie Summit YMCA, following the recent approval of a $43 million bond referendum. This new wellness center, which will be managed by the YMCA of the Cedar Rapids Metro Area, will include competition and recreation pools, locker rooms, turf areas, and fitness classrooms among other features. Construction is anticipated to begin this fall and be completed by spring 2026.
Cedar Rapids Leaf Collection Starts
Cedar Rapids starts leaf pickup from Oct. 28 through Dec. 6. The city reminds residents to check their collection days by visiting https://CityofCR.com/Leaf or by contacting the Solid Waste and Recycling Division at (319) 286-5897.
Iowa City Reviews Police Policies
The Community Police Review Board of Iowa City is hosting a forum to discuss the local police department’s policies and practices. All residents are invited to share their views at the Iowa City Public Library on Oct. 16 at 5:30 p.m. Additional information about the Community Police Review Board can be found online at icgov.org.
Iowa DNR Stocks Trout Statewide
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced their plans to stock rainbow trout in 18 lakes across the state as part of their cool weather trout program. The program aims to provide trout in areas where summer conditions are not supportive.
Johnson County’s ‘I Voted’ Sticker Contest Winners
The Johnson County Auditor’s office has announced Sara Alward and 11-year-old Cameron Johnson as the winners of the 2024 ‘I Voted’ sticker contest. The chosen designs will be available to voters participating in the November 5 General Election.
Iowa City Hall Maintenance Begins
Starting from today, Iowa City City Hall will see limited access due to maintenance works. These are expected to continue through November. In the meantime, the north portion of the Washington Street sidewalk will be closed, and parking restrictions will be in effect on weekdays.
Contributions to this report were provided by The Gazette’s Grace King, Megan Woolard, and Sara Konrad Baranowski.
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