City of Ames’ Podcasts

Latest Episodes:

Ames in Focus: The Dirty Job of Clean Water with Tyler VerMeer and Dustin Albrecht Aug 04, 2026

Show notes

Protecting clean water is one of the most important investments a community can make. The City of Ames is taking a major step forward through its Nutrient Reduction Project, an initiative designed to improve water quality, protect the environment, and ensure sustainable wastewater treatment for generations to come.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart sits down with Water Pollution Control Facility Superintendent Tyler VerMeer and Environmental Specialist Dustin Albrecht to discuss the progress being made on the Nutrient Reduction Project. They explain why nutrient reduction matters, how the project will improve the City's wastewater treatment process, and what residents can expect as construction continues.

Whether you're interested in environmental stewardship, infrastructure, or simply want to better understand where your water goes after it leaves your home, this episode provides an inside look at one of the City's most significant long-term investments.

In this episode:

What nutrient reduction is and why it matters
Where nitrogen and phosphorus come from
How the Nutrient Reduction Project will improve water quality
The role of the new activated sludge pond in the treatment process
Challenges of constructing major improvements while keeping the facility operating
The long-term environmental benefits for Ames and downstream communities

To learn more about the Nutrient Reduction Project and the work happening at the Water Pollution Control Facility, visit CityofAmes.org.

From Agenda to Action: What Happened at the July 28 Ames City Council Meeting Jul 31, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Bill Gebhart sits down with Mayor John Haila to recap key discussions and decisions from the Tuesday, July 28 Ames City Council meeting.

Their conversation highlights several important actions taken by the Council, including updates to the City's approach to future data center development, approval of easements needed for planned traffic improvements at 13th Street and Grand Avenue, and contracts awarded for major work at the Ames Municipal Energy Center. Together, they explain what these decisions mean for residents and how they support Ames' continued growth, infrastructure, and public services.

From Agenda to Action is designed to give residents a clearer understanding of how City Council discussions translate into real-world impacts across Ames.

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

Get involved:

• Watch meetings live or on demand on the City's YouTube page
• View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil

Have a topic you would like us to cover in a future episode? Email Eric.Gebhart@CityofAmes.org.

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

Ames in Focus: The Biggest Block Party in Ames with Nate Rivera Jul 28, 2026

Show notes

National Night Out is back, bringing neighbors, first responders, local organizations, and families together for one of Ames' favorite community events.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart sits down with Community Resource Officer Nate Rivera of the Ames Police Department to discuss this year's National Night Out and why it has become such an important tradition. They talk about the event's mission of building stronger relationships between residents and public safety, what visitors can expect, and how a simple evening of fun helps create a safer, more connected community.

Whether you've attended every year or are thinking about going for the first time, this episode will give you a preview of the activities, organizations, and experiences waiting for you.

In this episode:

• The purpose and history of National Night Out
• How the event strengthens relationships between the community and public safety
• Family-friendly activities, demonstrations, games, emergency vehicles, and more
• Community organizations and resources available during the event
• Why building connections today helps create a safer community tomorrow
• Nate Rivera takes on the Ames in Focus Lightning Round

National Night Out takes place Tuesday, August 4, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Ames Middle School. The event is free, family-friendly, and open to everyone.

For more information, visit www.CityofAmes.org and follow the Ames Police Department on social media.

From Agenda to Action: Preview of the July 28 Ames City Council Meeting Jul 24, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, host Bill Gebhart is joined by Assistant City Manager Pa Vang Goldbeck to preview key items scheduled for discussion at the upcoming Ames City Council meeting.

The meeting will take place on Tuesday, July 28, beginning with the Ames Conference Board meeting at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Ames City Council meeting at 6 p.m. in the Ames City Hall Council Chambers, located at 515 Clark Ave.

This episode highlights several agenda items that may be of interest to residents and the community. While it does not cover every topic, it offers a closer look at a few of the discussions Council will be considering and what they could mean for Ames. Think of it as your meeting preview, without having to read through hundreds of pages of agenda materials.

From Agenda to Action is designed to give listeners a clearer understanding of what is on the agenda, what decisions Council will be asked to make, and how those decisions may impact daily life in Ames.

In this episode, we discuss:

• A presentation on the Child Care Feasibility Study, including local data and a roadmap for strengthening child care options in Ames
• Proposed direction to staff regarding data center research and a timeline for the current pause on new data center development
• Contracts for major equipment at the Ames Municipal Energy Center, following discussion during the July 21 City Council Workshop
• Planned improvements to the intersection of 13th Street and Grand Avenue to enhance safety and traffic operations

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

Are there 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.

Watch City Council meetings live or on demand on the City's YouTube page.

View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil.

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: The Art of Letting Go with Susan Gwiasda and Merry Rankin Jul 21, 2026

Show notes

Rummage RAMPage is back for its 10th year, giving residents an easy way to declutter, shop for bargains, support local nonprofits, and keep thousands of reusable items out of the landfill.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart sits down with Iowa State University Director of Sustainability Merry Rankin and City of Ames Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda to discuss one of the community's biggest sustainability events. They share how Rummage RAMPage has grown over the past decade, why it plays such an important role in reducing waste, and how every donation and purchase helps support local nonprofit organizations.

Whether you're cleaning out your home, furnishing an apartment, or searching for a unique find, this episode will help you understand how Rummage RAMPage benefits both the community and the environment.

In this episode:

The history and purpose of Rummage RAMPage
How the event keeps usable items out of the landfill
How donations and shopping support local nonprofit organizations
What can and cannot be donated
Important dates, donation information, and what's new for this year's event
Tips for shoppers looking for great bargains

The 10th annual Rummage RAMPage runs Friday, July 24 through Saturday, August 1 at the Ames Intermodal Facility, 129 Hayward Avenue. To learn more, view donation guidelines, schedule a pickup, or find shopping hours, visit www.CityofAmes.org/RummageRAMPage.

From Agenda to Action: What Happened at the July 14 Ames City Council Meeting Jul 17, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda sits down with Mayor John Haila to recap key discussions and decisions from the Tuesday, July 14 Ames City Council meeting.

Their conversation focuses on two significant topics from the meeting. First, they discuss the City Council's actions regarding proposed policies for future development in Ames and what those decisions mean moving forward. They also review the approval of staining the exterior facade of the Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center, explaining why the work is needed and how it will help preserve the facility.

From Agenda to Action is designed to give residents a clearer understanding of how City Council discussions translate into real-world impacts across Ames.

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

Get involved:

• Watch meetings live or on demand on the City's YouTube page
• View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil

Have a topic you would like us to cover in a future episode? Email Eric.Gebhart@CityofAmes.org.

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.

Live Well, Be Well: The Scroll Toll Jul 15, 2026

Show notes

Screens are everywhere. From work and school to entertainment and social media, the average person spends hours each day looking at a phone, tablet, computer, or television. But what does all that screen time do to our brains and overall well-being?

In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., hosts Kacie Schumann and Bailey Dingfield explore the growing impact of screen time on our daily lives. They discuss how much time people actually spend on screens, the mental fatigue that can come with constant digital stimulation, and practical strategies to create healthier habits without giving up technology altogether.

The conversation also gets personal as Kacie and Bailey compare their own screen time habits, share what surprised them, and talk about the changes they're trying to make.

Episode Highlights

How Much Screen Time Is Too Much?
Learn what current research says about the amount of time adults and children spend on screens and how those numbers have changed over the years.

Why Screens Can Feel So Draining
Discover why extended screen use can leave your brain feeling tired, even when you're not physically active, and how constant notifications and multitasking contribute to mental fatigue.

Simple Ways to Reduce Digital Fatigue
From taking regular breaks to adjusting screen settings and creating intentional tech-free moments, the hosts share practical tips to help reduce the strain of daily screen use.

Screen Time and Mental Well-Being
Explore how screen habits can influence sleep, focus, stress, and overall wellness, and why balance matters more than perfection.

Checking Their Own Habits
Kacie and Bailey take a look at their personal screen time reports, discuss what surprised them, and share realistic goals for creating healthier digital routines.

Resources

Screen Time Statistics and Trends
https://explodingtopics.com/blog/screen-time-stats

American Academy of Ophthalmology: Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain)
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/computer-usage

CDC: Sleep and Sleep Disorders
https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/

Have a question, topic idea, or someone you would like to hear on the podcast?

Send suggestions to Kacie.Schumann@CityofAmes.org.

Ames in Focus: From Ideas to Impact with Vanessa Baker-Latimer Jul 14, 2026

Show notes

How do federal dollars help improve neighborhoods, support affordable housing, and strengthen the Ames community? More importantly, how can you help decide where those funds go?

In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart sits down with Housing Coordinator Vanessa Baker-Latimer to discuss the 2026-27 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Annual Action Plan. They explain what the plan is, how federal funding can be used for neighborhood revitalization, housing, community facilities, and economic development, and why public input plays an important role in shaping the City's priorities.

Whether you're interested in housing, neighborhood improvements, or simply want to have a voice in how federal funding is invested in Ames, this episode will help you understand the process and how to get involved.

In this episode:

What the CDBG and HOME Annual Action Plan is
How federal funding supports housing, neighborhoods, and community projects
The national objectives that guide funding decisions
How to submit comments and help shape the Annual Action Plan
Where to review the draft plan and learn more

Residents can submit comments on the draft Annual Action Plan through Thursday, July 23. Visit www.CityofAmes.org/Housing for more information, to review the draft plan, and to learn how to provide feedback.

From Agenda to Action: Preview of the July 14, Ames City Council Meeting Jul 10, 2026

Show notes

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

The meeting will take place on Tuesday, July 14, beginning at 6 p.m. with the Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization meeting, immediately followed by the Ames City Council meeting in the Ames City Hall Council Chambers, located at 515 Clark Ave.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Community events, including the upcoming Octagon Art Festival and Turkey Trot
• A staff report from the City Attorney regarding limitations that can be placed on proposed data centers
• A proposal to hire a project consultant for the design and construction of the new Fire Station #2
• Downtown Façade Grant applications and how they support improvements to downtown buildings

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

Are there 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.

Watch City Council meetings live or on demand on the City's YouTube page.

View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil.

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: Before You Build with Scott McCambridge Jul 07, 2026

Show notes

Thinking about finishing your basement, building a deck, replacing windows, or tackling that long overdue home project? Before you pick up the tools, make sure you know when a permit is required and what the 2026 Building Code updates mean for you.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart sits down with Assistant Building Official Scott McCambridge to break down the latest code changes in plain English. They discuss why building codes are updated, the City's first permit fee increase since 2013, common projects that do and do not require permits, and important safety improvements involving smoke alarms, electrical protection, decks, accessibility, and more.

Whether you're a homeowner, contractor, or DIY enthusiast, this episode will help you build smarter, safer, and with fewer surprises.

In this episode:

Why the 2026 Building Code updates matter
Which home projects require permits and which do not
Changes to smoke and carbon monoxide alarm requirements
New electrical and deck safety standards
What contractors and business owners should know
Where to get answers before you start your next project

Have questions about permits or inspections? Contact the City of Ames Building Division or visit the City's website for more information.

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