FORT MADISON, IA
The Lee County Narcotics Task Force has arrested six Fort Madison residents in connection with a methamphetamine manufacturing ring in the city. They range in age from 21 to 55.
They each face one count of felony conspiracy to manufacture more than five grams of meth. Several have also been charged with maintaining a drug house and a 24-hour pseudoephedrine violation.
If convicted, the six could each be sentenced to more than 20 years in prison. Three simultaneous search warrants were executed on Tuesday, March 13.
BURLINGTON, IA
Burlington could form a citizens’ panel to help with the promotion of an upcoming tax referendum.
Voters will go to the polls on August 7, 2012 to decide whether a one cent local option sales tax should continue beyond Dec. 31, 2012. The tax generates roughly $4-million/year for the city.
Interim City Manager Dan Luttenegger says the citizens’ panel is being considered because the city cannot put money towards the promotion of the tax vote through advertisements or signs.
He says the language for the referendum has yet to be finalized because the city council must decide whether to include a sunset clause.
KEOKUK, IA
The Keokuk Union Depot has won a $10,000 grant through an online competition.
The website, www.Dwell.com, says its Rethinking Preservation contest resulted in more than 71,000 votes being cast for 118 projects. The depot was the top vote getter.
The money will be awarded to the Keokuk Union Depot Commission.
DES MOINES COUNTY, IA
The upcoming budgets for Burlington and West Burlington are being described as “status quo” and “no frills.”
Interim City Manager Dan Luttenegger says Burlington’s $53-million dollar spending plan for the fiscal year that begins July 1, 2012 requires the elimination of a couple of positions through retirements.
He says it does include a four cent decrease in the property tax rate along with funding for Dankwardt Pool and the demolition fund.
City Administrator Dan Gifford says West Burlington’s budget requires no staffing or program cuts and maintains the property tax rate.
He says there is also some money for capital projects.
