City of Ames’ Podcasts

Latest Episodes:

From Agenda to Action: Preview of the Ames City Council Meeting for Tuesday, Feb. 10 Feb 06, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Ames Mayor John Haila to preview key items scheduled for discussion at the upcoming Ames City Council meeting.

The Council meeting will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 10, beginning at 5:15 p.m. in the Ames City Hall Council Chambers, located at 515 Clark Ave.

This episode helps residents understand what is on the agenda, what decisions Council will be asked to consider, and how those items may impact the Ames community.

In this episode, we discuss:

Key agenda items scheduled for the Feb. 10 City Council meeting
What Council will be asked to consider and why it matters
How residents can watch the meeting or participate through public comment

Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public.

Have a question or topic you would like covered?

Are there any agenda items or City Council topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode? Send us an email at eric.gebhart@CityofAmes.org.

Get involved:

Watch City Council meetings live or on demand at www.CityofAmes.org
View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil
Participate in public comment in person or online

Important note:

City Council agendas may change up to 24 hours before the meeting time. This podcast reflects the agenda as it exists at the time of recording.

From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.

Ames in Focus: Behind the Budget with Corey Goodenow and Nancy Masteller Feb 03, 2026

Show notes

Budget season is officially underway in Ames, and while spreadsheets and line items might not sound thrilling, they’re the foundation for how our City runs.

In this episode, host Bill Gebhart is joined by Corey Goodenow, Finance Director, and Nancy Masteller, Budget Manager, to walk us through the development of the City’s 2026-2027 budget. From public hearings to tax levies, they break down the process in clear, practical terms and explain why it’s worth your attention.

🔍 In this episode:

Where we are in the budget timeline and what’s coming next
How residents can follow along and stay informed
What the budget actually determines (hint: it’s more than just numbers)
Why community values and input matter in this process
Key opportunities to listen in or get involved

Nancy and Corey offer an accessible, behind-the-scenes look at a process that touches everything from public safety to library hours. Whether you're a first-time budget follower or a longtime civic watcher, this episode is your guide to what’s happening and why it matters.

Explore the draft budget, try the Property Tax Calculator, and find meeting details at www.CityofAmes.org/Finance

Public Budget Hearings:
All begin at 5:15 p.m. in Council Chambers (515 Clark Ave) and stream live on the City’s website, Facebook, and YouTube.

Tuesday, February 3
Monday, February 4
Thursday, February 5
Budget wrap-up: Tuesday, February 10

Ames in Focus: Staying Warm, Staying Informed with John Odenweller Jan 27, 2026

Show notes

As winter tightens its grip, many Ames residents are feeling the strain, especially when utility bills start to spike. In this episode, Bill Gebhart welcomes back John Odenweller, Utility Accounts Supervisor for the City of Ames, to help unpack what resources are available, how to navigate changes to your utility bill, and what you can do right now to stay warm and supported.

From LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) to emergency utility support and disconnection protections, John breaks down what assistance is out there, who’s eligible, and why it’s critical to act early. The episode also covers the City’s new utility customer portal, what’s changed, what’s easier, and how to get started.

Plus: A spotlight on The Ames Warming Place, a community-run overnight shelter that opens during extreme cold at First United Methodist Church (516 Kellogg Ave), offering refuge and warmth to those in need.

Episode Highlights:

What LIHEAP is and how to apply through MICA
Eligibility details and documentation needed
Emergency help for overdue bills and disconnection notices
Tips for accessing support without delay
Key changes to your monthly utility bill
Resources for in-person or online help
Information about The Ames Warming Place and how it supports the unhoused during dangerous weather

Resources Mentioned:

micaonline.org for LIHEAP applications under “Energy Assistance”
CityOfAmes.org/BoardsAndCommissions for civic engagement opportunities
City of Ames Utility Customer Service for help with billing questions
The Ames Warming Place located at First United Methodist Church, 516 Kellogg Ave

Stay warm, stay informed, and as always, thanks for tuning in to Ames in Focus.

Ames in Focus: Preparing for Digital Accessibility with Casandra Eames Jan 20, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, we dig into important changes on the horizon that will shape how cities across the U.S. serve their residents online. Starting in April 2026, new rules from the Department of Justice will go into effect under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), requiring local governments to make their websites, mobile apps, and digital content accessible to people with disabilities.

Host Bill Gebhart is joined by Casandra Eames, Engagement Coordinator for the City of Ames, to break down what these updates mean, what "digital accessibility" actually looks like in practice, and how Ames is preparing to meet the new standards.

🔍 In this episode:

What the ADA is and why it applies to digital content
What the DOJ’s new rule requires and when it takes effect
Steps Ames is taking now: accessibility audits, staff training, content updates, and more
Real-world examples of digital accessibility features
Why this matters to everyone, not just people with disabilities
How residents can share feedback or report accessibility concerns

Casandra offers a thoughtful and practical look at how accessibility benefits the whole community and reflects the City’s commitment to equity and inclusion.

📘 Learn More:

Visit CityOfAmes.org for updates and resources on accessibility and digital inclusion.

Ames in Focus: A Legacy of Community with Vanessa Baker-Latimer Jan 13, 2026

Show notes

In this special episode of Ames in Focus, we celebrate a cornerstone of our community calendar: the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration. Now in its sixteenth year, the event brings together residents from across Ames and Story County for an evening of reflection, recognition, and inspiration. Host Bill Gebhart is joined by Vanessa Baker-Latimer, a driving force behind the event since its early days, to talk about what’s planned for 2026 and why this gathering continues to resonate.

What to Expect:

Cookie Reception (6:00–6:30 p.m.): Start the evening with cookies and live jazz from the Ames High School Jazz Band I.
Main Program (6:30 p.m.):
- Humanitarian Awards presented by the Ames Human Relations Commission
- Sixth Annual High School Essay Contest winners
- Musical Performances, including the MLK Children’s Choir
- Keynote Address by Quentin Hart, former Waterloo Mayor and inspiring civic leader

Vanessa shares the heart behind the celebration, the importance of community recognition, and how the event has grown into a beloved tradition that honors Dr. King's legacy while highlighting local voices and action.

📺 Watch or Attend:

The event is free and open to all, with a live stream available on the YouTube.com/@CityofAmesTelevision.

Ames in Focus: Mayor John Haila Returns Jan 06, 2026

Show notes

In this New Year’s episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart welcomes back Mayor John Haila, who begins his third term leading the City of Ames. Mayor Haila reflects on the highlights of 2025, discusses major City initiatives, and shares his vision for 2026. From the relocation of Fire Station No. 2 and the planning of a new recycling facility to the early stages of Ontario Community Park and growing opportunities for civic engagement, this conversation offers an insightful look into where the City has been and where it’s going.

Episode Highlights:

Reflections on 2025 milestones and proud moments in Ames
How Mayor Haila’s leadership perspective has evolved entering a third term
The impact of relocating Fire Station No. 2 to State Avenue
Preparing for the new Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus (R3C)
Why community input matters in shaping Ontario Community Park
Priorities for 2026 including the proposed Recreation Center
Encouragement for residents to stay involved with their local government

Resources & Links:

Learn more and get involved: CityOfAmes.org
Apply for a Board or Commission: CityOfAmes.org/BoardsandCommissions
Follow us on social media for updates and opportunities to engage with your City

Ames in Focus: Power Moves with Nolan Sagan and DiMaucia Phanfil Dec 30, 2025

Show notes

In the final episode of Season One, we focus on how to reduce energy use, save money on your utility bills, and make your home more comfortable. Nolan Sagan, Sustainability Coordinator for the City of Ames, returns to the podcast. He is joined by DiMaucia Phanfil from Green Iowa AmeriCorps. Together, they explain how free home energy audits work, what common problems they find in local homes, and how the City’s rebate program can help residents take action.

Episode Highlights:

What a free home energy audit includes and how to sign up
Common sources of energy loss in Ames homes
How rebates support improvements such as new appliances and insulation
Small changes that can lead to big savings
A look ahead to a public event focused on understanding your utility bill
Important reminders about City office closures and Library events during the holiday week

Helpful Links:

Free Home Energy Audits: greeniowaamericorps.org/energyaudit
Ames Electric Services Rebates: CityofAmes.org/Sustainability

Programming Notes:
This episode marks the end of Season One of Ames in Focus. We will return next week with Season Two, beginning with a new conversation with Mayor John Haila.

Up Close: Daniel Pixley, Julie Saxton, and Jonathan Anderson Dec 25, 2025

Show notes

This week on Up Close, host Casandra Eames welcomes back three familiar voices: Daniel Pixley, Julie Saxton, and Jonathan Anderson. In this special reunion episode, the guests meet each other for the first time and share thoughtful, funny, and revealing reflections on life in Ames.

From their personal faith journeys to what keeps drawing them back to this community, Daniel, Julie, and Jonathan open up about the work they do and the unique ways Ames has shaped their stories. They also each share a “hidden gem” in town, those special spots that make Ames feel like home.

Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, this episode is a warm reminder of the connections that thrive in our city.

Want to be featured on Up Close?
Reach out to Casandra Eames in the City Manager’s Office or email her at Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org.

The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the views of the City of Ames or its employees.

Ames in Focus: Inside ASSET with Pa Vang Goldbeck Dec 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Ames in Focus, we take a closer look at ASSET, the Analysis of Social Services Evaluation Team. Assistant City Manager Pa Vang Goldbeck joins us to explain how this local partnership works to fund essential human services throughout Story County.

Launched in 1985, ASSET brings together the City of Ames, Story County, United Way of Story County, and Iowa State University Student Government to evaluate funding requests and support programs that meet real community needs. From mental health care and food assistance to housing and child care, these investments touch the lives of thousands of residents.

We explore how the funding process works, the key role of trained volunteers, and how residents can get involved in shaping the local safety net.

Episode Highlights:

ASSET's mission:
Supporting community wellbeing by evaluating and funding local human services based on need and performance.
Who is involved:
Four funding partners work together to review proposals and allocate funds: City of Ames, Story County, United Way of Story County, and ISU Student Government.
Scale of support:
For fiscal year 2026/27, 29 agencies have applied for funding. Last year, over $5 million was allocated, including $2 million from the City of Ames.
Decision-making process:
Volunteers receive training, attend agency presentations, and help make recommendations based on community priorities and available resources.
Services funded:
Includes a wide range of support such as food programs, mental health services, housing assistance, child care, and crisis response.
How to learn more:
Visit StoryCountyASSET.org to see meeting schedules, agency details, and opportunities to get involved.

Be sure to subscribe for more conversations about the people and partnerships shaping Ames.

Up Close: Jonathan Anderson Dec 18, 2025

Show notes

In this heartfelt episode of Up Close, host Casandra Eames sits down for the first time with Jonathan Anderson, a creative soul with deep roots in Ames. Born into a large family and homeschooled through his formative years, Jonathan shares stories of growing up in a bustling household, the simple pleasures he once took for granted (like vegetables!), and how those early experiences shaped the journey he’s on today.

Together, Casandra and Jonathan explore the intersection of memory, identity, and imagination. They talk about the role movies have played in his life, the joys and challenges of being a creative person, and the unexpected paths that lead us to where we are.

Whether you're from a big family, a fellow homeschooler, or just someone who appreciates a good story, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and a little more up close to the people around you.

Want to be featured on Up Close?
Contact Casandra Eames in the City Manager’s Office or email her at Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org.

The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the views of the City of Ames or its employees.

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