How to get the Adviser in your business
Posted 6/26/2020
If you are a business owner or manager and would like to have the Adviser available for your employees or customers, simply let us know and we will add you to the list. Here are 5 reasons you may want to consider this:
1. It’s free! We provide copies at no charge, and you simply make them available. We pick up the returns when we deliver the news ones, and we adjust the amount we give you based on how many were picked up. No work on your part.
2. It drives traffic to your store! Once residents know you are a distribution location, they will seek out the Adviser by returning to your store.
3. It supports the local business community! Local businesses are dealing with a new set of challenges now, but buying local is seemingly always the solution.
4. It shares positive news about the community! Those who read the Adviser tell us they feel better about themselves and this community.
To begin delivery, contact us online at www.iowaadviser.com.
Thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
President and Publisher
If you are a business owner or manager and would like to have the Adviser available for your employees or customers, simply let us know and we will add you to the list. Here are 5 reasons you may want to consider this:
1. It’s free! We provide copies at no charge, and you simply make them available. We pick up the returns when we deliver the news ones, and we adjust the amount we give you based on how many were picked up. No work on your part.
2. It drives traffic to your store! Once residents know you are a distribution location, they will seek out the Adviser by returning to your store.
3. It supports the local business community! Local businesses are dealing with a new set of challenges now, but buying local is seemingly always the solution.
4. It shares positive news about the community! Those who read the Adviser tell us they feel better about themselves and this community.
To begin delivery, contact us online at www.iowaadviser.com.
Thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
President and Publisher
Stream Friday Night’s Football Game at Palms Theatre
Posted 10/23/2020
Want a warm, cozy place to watch the Warriors football team this Friday? Join at the Palms for the Waukee game. Admission is free, and seating is first come, first served. Groups will be socially distanced, which will be facilitated and enforced throughout the game.
To see how Palms Theatres and IMAX is keeping their guests and employees safe, view their Commitment to Communities: www.fridleytheatres.com. Seating at 6:15 p.m. Kickoff at 7 p.m.
Want a warm, cozy place to watch the Warriors football team this Friday? Join at the Palms for the Waukee game. Admission is free, and seating is first come, first served. Groups will be socially distanced, which will be facilitated and enforced throughout the game.
To see how Palms Theatres and IMAX is keeping their guests and employees safe, view their Commitment to Communities: www.fridleytheatres.com. Seating at 6:15 p.m. Kickoff at 7 p.m.
Beggars Night is Friday, Oct. 30
Posted 10/23/2020
This Halloween, take steps to protect yourself and others against COVID-19 and the flu. Waukee Beggars Night is Friday, Oct. 30 from 6-8 p.m. If offering treats, CDC recommends to:
• Avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters.
• Give out treats outdoors, if possible.
• Set up a station with individually bagged treats for kids to take.
• Wash hands before handling treats.
• Wear a mask.
More tips: https://bit.ly/33WSf$Sr.
This Halloween, take steps to protect yourself and others against COVID-19 and the flu. Waukee Beggars Night is Friday, Oct. 30 from 6-8 p.m. If offering treats, CDC recommends to:
• Avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters.
• Give out treats outdoors, if possible.
• Set up a station with individually bagged treats for kids to take.
• Wash hands before handling treats.
• Wear a mask.
More tips: https://bit.ly/33WSf$Sr.
Little Ninjas and Karate Programs
Posted 10/23/2020
A few spots still remain for the November/December Little Ninjas (ages 4-6) and Karate (6-adult) programs in partnership with Dickey’s Ryuku. The cost is $35-40 for six weeks of learning martial arts, self-respect, self-discipline and coordination of mind and body. Register at https://waukee.activityreg.com.
A few spots still remain for the November/December Little Ninjas (ages 4-6) and Karate (6-adult) programs in partnership with Dickey’s Ryuku. The cost is $35-40 for six weeks of learning martial arts, self-respect, self-discipline and coordination of mind and body. Register at https://waukee.activityreg.com.
Dinner Delights meal prep
Posted 10/23/2020
The next Dinner Delights meal prep party will be held Sunday, Nov. 15 from 2-4 p.m. The menu includes enchilada stuffed chicken, pork chops with maple cinnamon apples, corn chowder and more. Register at www.Waukee.org/registration.
The next Dinner Delights meal prep party will be held Sunday, Nov. 15 from 2-4 p.m. The menu includes enchilada stuffed chicken, pork chops with maple cinnamon apples, corn chowder and more. Register at www.Waukee.org/registration.
Waukee Library news
Posted 10/23/2020
As a precaution to help limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), the Library will be closed until further notice. Due to parking lot construction, all Curbside Services will be moving to the front entrance — this includes returning items. The drive-up return will remain closed until this phase of construction is completed. At this time, they are not charging fines, so feel free to hang on to your items until construction is complete. Curbside service hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Explore materials in the online catalog and place a hold on any item you wish to receive or call (515) 978-7944. Visit www.waukeepubliclibrary.org for upcoming events.
As a precaution to help limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), the Library will be closed until further notice. Due to parking lot construction, all Curbside Services will be moving to the front entrance — this includes returning items. The drive-up return will remain closed until this phase of construction is completed. At this time, they are not charging fines, so feel free to hang on to your items until construction is complete. Curbside service hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Explore materials in the online catalog and place a hold on any item you wish to receive or call (515) 978-7944. Visit www.waukeepubliclibrary.org for upcoming events.
Firestone Complete Auto Care Grand Opening Event
Posted 10/23/2020
Out of an abundance of caution related to COVID, Firestone Compete Auto Care, 575 E. Hickman Road, is not holding a traditional event, including a ribbon cutting, but will have special offers good through the weekend (Oct. 23-25) and gifts for everyone that visits for service. Special offers for the weekend:
• $70 off a set of four Bridgestone or Firestone tires.
• 20% off all automotive services.
Out of an abundance of caution related to COVID, Firestone Compete Auto Care, 575 E. Hickman Road, is not holding a traditional event, including a ribbon cutting, but will have special offers good through the weekend (Oct. 23-25) and gifts for everyone that visits for service. Special offers for the weekend:
• $70 off a set of four Bridgestone or Firestone tires.
• 20% off all automotive services.
City of Waukee Receives APA Iowa Award for Transportation Planning
Posted 10/23/2020
The City of Waukee and Snyder & Associates, Inc. received the Iowa Chapter of the American Planning Association’s (APA Iowa) 2020 Transportation Planning Award. Each year, APA Iowa asks its members to nominate plans, projects and individuals deserving recognition by the professional organization. The “Waukee Street Design Guide,” which is a manual of Waukee street classifications and standards, took the gold in the transportation category.
In a community expected to double in size by 2040, the City of Waukee worked with Snyder & Associates to create a plan for future mobility and road safety improvements for Waukee residents and visitors. Traffic calming measures developed in the plan have already been implemented on specific Waukee streets to address speed concerns from residents. Visit bit.ly/waukeestreetguide to see the Waukee Street Design Guide.
The City of Waukee and Snyder & Associates, Inc. received the Iowa Chapter of the American Planning Association’s (APA Iowa) 2020 Transportation Planning Award. Each year, APA Iowa asks its members to nominate plans, projects and individuals deserving recognition by the professional organization. The “Waukee Street Design Guide,” which is a manual of Waukee street classifications and standards, took the gold in the transportation category.
In a community expected to double in size by 2040, the City of Waukee worked with Snyder & Associates to create a plan for future mobility and road safety improvements for Waukee residents and visitors. Traffic calming measures developed in the plan have already been implemented on specific Waukee streets to address speed concerns from residents. Visit bit.ly/waukeestreetguide to see the Waukee Street Design Guide.
Waukee Police Holiday Programs
Posted 10/16/2020
The Waukee Police Department is gearing up for its holiday giving programs. In November, the department will provide the makings of Thanksgiving meals to more than 20 Waukee families through its Thanksgiving Basket Drive. Monetary donations will be used to purchase food items for the holiday baskets from the Waukee Fareway, which will then be delivered prior to Thanksgiving Day.
Police officers also raise money each holiday season to take kids shopping for gifts for themselves and their families with the Shop With a Cop program. Due to COVID-19, the officers will gather wish lists from their identified families in need, then shop for and wrap the families’ gifts, rather than taking kids shopping in-person. The 2020 Shop With a Cop goal is to make the holidays bright for 20 local families.
Cash or check donations can be sent to Waukee Police Department, 1300 S.E. L.A. Grant Parkway, Waukee, IA 50263. To drop off, stop by the Public Safety Building on a weekday between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Thanksgiving Baskets donations will be accepted through Nov. 20, and Shop With a Cop donations will be accepted through Dec. 4. The Waukee PD thanks all those who support making a difference in the Waukee community. Call 515-978-7979 with questions.
The Waukee Police Department is gearing up for its holiday giving programs. In November, the department will provide the makings of Thanksgiving meals to more than 20 Waukee families through its Thanksgiving Basket Drive. Monetary donations will be used to purchase food items for the holiday baskets from the Waukee Fareway, which will then be delivered prior to Thanksgiving Day.
Police officers also raise money each holiday season to take kids shopping for gifts for themselves and their families with the Shop With a Cop program. Due to COVID-19, the officers will gather wish lists from their identified families in need, then shop for and wrap the families’ gifts, rather than taking kids shopping in-person. The 2020 Shop With a Cop goal is to make the holidays bright for 20 local families.
Cash or check donations can be sent to Waukee Police Department, 1300 S.E. L.A. Grant Parkway, Waukee, IA 50263. To drop off, stop by the Public Safety Building on a weekday between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Thanksgiving Baskets donations will be accepted through Nov. 20, and Shop With a Cop donations will be accepted through Dec. 4. The Waukee PD thanks all those who support making a difference in the Waukee community. Call 515-978-7979 with questions.
Boards and commissions positions open
Posted 10/16/2020
The City of Waukee is seeking applications from Waukee residents who would like to become members of one of the City’s many important boards and commissions. Seats are open on Board of Appeals, Park Board, Planning & Zoning Commission and Zoning Board of Adjustment. Apply by Monday, Nov. 30 on their website, www.waukee.org.
The City of Waukee is seeking applications from Waukee residents who would like to become members of one of the City’s many important boards and commissions. Seats are open on Board of Appeals, Park Board, Planning & Zoning Commission and Zoning Board of Adjustment. Apply by Monday, Nov. 30 on their website, www.waukee.org.
Waukee YP Virtual 5K - Run, Walk or Bike
Posted 10/16/2020
Runnin’ for a Reason! The Waukee Young Professionals are hosting a virtual 5K run, walk or bike for you to complete at your convenience. Complete the 5K any time from Oct. 29-31. A course map will be provided, however you may complete the 5K wherever is most convenient for you. Post a photo and tag them when you complete the 5K — costumes are encouraged. Posting a photo enters you into the raffle drawing. Keep an eye out for a Snap Chat filter that will be live on Oct. 31. The cost is $10 per participant. Registration is open to anyone. Registration also enters you into our raffle drawing. Visit their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/waukeeyp, for more information and a link to register. All proceeds will go to a local organization in support of breast cancer awareness month.
Runnin’ for a Reason! The Waukee Young Professionals are hosting a virtual 5K run, walk or bike for you to complete at your convenience. Complete the 5K any time from Oct. 29-31. A course map will be provided, however you may complete the 5K wherever is most convenient for you. Post a photo and tag them when you complete the 5K — costumes are encouraged. Posting a photo enters you into the raffle drawing. Keep an eye out for a Snap Chat filter that will be live on Oct. 31. The cost is $10 per participant. Registration is open to anyone. Registration also enters you into our raffle drawing. Visit their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/waukeeyp, for more information and a link to register. All proceeds will go to a local organization in support of breast cancer awareness month.
Iowa Arboretum has fresh honey
Posted 10/16/2020
You can purchase your 1-pound bottle online at https://iowaarboretum.org for pick up on Saturday, Oct. 17 and Sunday, Oct. 18 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
You can purchase your 1-pound bottle online at https://iowaarboretum.org for pick up on Saturday, Oct. 17 and Sunday, Oct. 18 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Tiger-Rock Martial Arts Open House
Posted 10/16/2020
Tiger-Rock Martial Arts is hosting a New Student Experience open house Oct. 19-24. Join them for a free class. Call 515-978-8070 or email waukee@tigerrockmartialarts.com for available class times for each age group, 739 S.E. Alices’ Road, Waukee.
Tiger-Rock Martial Arts is hosting a New Student Experience open house Oct. 19-24. Join them for a free class. Call 515-978-8070 or email waukee@tigerrockmartialarts.com for available class times for each age group, 739 S.E. Alices’ Road, Waukee.
Waukee Maintains Aa2 Credit Rating
Posted 10/8/2020
Moody’s Investors Service announced that the City of Waukee general obligation credit rating will stay at Aa2, to which the City was upgraded in 2017. This rating allows the City to receive more competitive interest rates for repayment of debt. Post-sale, the City will have $85 million of general obligation unlimited tax (GOULT) debt outstanding.
Series 2020B Bonds will be used by the City to finance the costs of construction, improvement and equipping of the Triumph Park project.
According to the Moody’s report, the Aa2 rating reflects Waukee’s “growing and affluent tax base with economic ties to the Des Moines (Aa2 stable) metro area and sound reserves that are expected to remain healthy despite some negative budgetary variances driven by the pandemic. The rating also reflects the City’s modest pension burden and favorable demographic trends. The City’s primary credit challenge is high debt leverage and elevated fixed costs to fund a steady stream of capital improvements driven by the City’s continued growth.”
The Credit Opinion Report notes that reduction of the debt burden plus continued tax base growth coupled with strengthened resident income levels could lead to a future rating upgrade. Factors listed, which could lead to a downgrade, include deterioration of the tax base and resident income profiles, growth in long-term leverage, and large and sustained decrease in available reserves or liquidity.
To view the complete report from Moody’s Investors Services, visit moodys.com.
Moody’s Investors Service announced that the City of Waukee general obligation credit rating will stay at Aa2, to which the City was upgraded in 2017. This rating allows the City to receive more competitive interest rates for repayment of debt. Post-sale, the City will have $85 million of general obligation unlimited tax (GOULT) debt outstanding.
Series 2020B Bonds will be used by the City to finance the costs of construction, improvement and equipping of the Triumph Park project.
According to the Moody’s report, the Aa2 rating reflects Waukee’s “growing and affluent tax base with economic ties to the Des Moines (Aa2 stable) metro area and sound reserves that are expected to remain healthy despite some negative budgetary variances driven by the pandemic. The rating also reflects the City’s modest pension burden and favorable demographic trends. The City’s primary credit challenge is high debt leverage and elevated fixed costs to fund a steady stream of capital improvements driven by the City’s continued growth.”
The Credit Opinion Report notes that reduction of the debt burden plus continued tax base growth coupled with strengthened resident income levels could lead to a future rating upgrade. Factors listed, which could lead to a downgrade, include deterioration of the tax base and resident income profiles, growth in long-term leverage, and large and sustained decrease in available reserves or liquidity.
To view the complete report from Moody’s Investors Services, visit moodys.com.
Walsh named to Hospitality Industry list
Posted 10/8/2020
Congratulations to Amy Walsh for being chosen as one of the 2020 40 Women to Watch in the Hospitality Industry. Amy Walsh warns people the hospitality industry can be addicting. Walsh chose hospitality because of the variety of career paths available. She speaks from experience having worked as a server, bartender, catering manager and now co-owner with husband Andy. The couple’s popular eatery has become a cornerstone in their community, receiving multiple awards for their charity work.
If you want to celebrate with Amy or any of the other incredible 40 Women to Watch this year, get your tickets for the Grand Tasting Gala and Celebrating Excellence Ceremony at restaurantiowa.com.
Congratulations to Amy Walsh for being chosen as one of the 2020 40 Women to Watch in the Hospitality Industry. Amy Walsh warns people the hospitality industry can be addicting. Walsh chose hospitality because of the variety of career paths available. She speaks from experience having worked as a server, bartender, catering manager and now co-owner with husband Andy. The couple’s popular eatery has become a cornerstone in their community, receiving multiple awards for their charity work.
If you want to celebrate with Amy or any of the other incredible 40 Women to Watch this year, get your tickets for the Grand Tasting Gala and Celebrating Excellence Ceremony at restaurantiowa.com.
Waukee Police Department Annual Report
Posted 10/8/2020
The Waukee Police Department’s 2019 Annual Report is now available. Read a message from Police Chief John Quinn, learn more about the team and see what the call response numbers looked like in 2019. The report also covers community outreach, criminal investigations, new and promoted staff and more. View the report at www.waukee.org.
The Waukee Police Department’s 2019 Annual Report is now available. Read a message from Police Chief John Quinn, learn more about the team and see what the call response numbers looked like in 2019. The report also covers community outreach, criminal investigations, new and promoted staff and more. View the report at www.waukee.org.
Prescription Drug Take-Back Day is Oct. 24
Posted 10/8/2020
The DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient and responsible way of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. Waukee area residents can be a part of the effort.
The Waukee Public Safety Building at 1300 S.E. L.A. Grant Parkway will be open Saturday, Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to accept pills and patches for disposal. Prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding your home of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. The DEA cannot accept liquids or needles. The PD will also collect vape pens or other e-cigarette devices from individual consumers during the Oct. 24 Drug Take-Back Day. However, the consumer is responsible for removing the batteries prior to drop-off. If the batteries cannot be removed, individual consumers can check with large electronic chain stores who may accept the vape pen or e-cigarette devices for proper disposal.
A Drug Drop-Box is also located in the lobby of the Waukee Public Safety Building year-round for drop-off Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient and responsible way of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. Waukee area residents can be a part of the effort.
The Waukee Public Safety Building at 1300 S.E. L.A. Grant Parkway will be open Saturday, Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to accept pills and patches for disposal. Prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding your home of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. The DEA cannot accept liquids or needles. The PD will also collect vape pens or other e-cigarette devices from individual consumers during the Oct. 24 Drug Take-Back Day. However, the consumer is responsible for removing the batteries prior to drop-off. If the batteries cannot be removed, individual consumers can check with large electronic chain stores who may accept the vape pen or e-cigarette devices for proper disposal.
A Drug Drop-Box is also located in the lobby of the Waukee Public Safety Building year-round for drop-off Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Bank Iowa Invites you to Donate to ‘Can Do Cancer’
Posted 10/8/2020
In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Bank Iowa is partnering with Can Do Cancer, an Iowa-based non-profit organization that works to improve the lives of breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment in Des Moines, Ames and surrounding areas. Des Moines community members are encouraged to donate to the organization directly or take part in the bank’s social media challenge.
For the month of October, Bank Iowa is changing its traditional blue logo to pink on all social platforms. The bank will donate $1 to Can Do Cancer for every new like, follow or subscriber earned throughout the month of October. Community members are encouraged to like Bank Iowa on social media and encourage friends and family to do the same.
Community members can donate directly to Can Do Cancer or like Bank Iowa on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.
In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Bank Iowa is partnering with Can Do Cancer, an Iowa-based non-profit organization that works to improve the lives of breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment in Des Moines, Ames and surrounding areas. Des Moines community members are encouraged to donate to the organization directly or take part in the bank’s social media challenge.
For the month of October, Bank Iowa is changing its traditional blue logo to pink on all social platforms. The bank will donate $1 to Can Do Cancer for every new like, follow or subscriber earned throughout the month of October. Community members are encouraged to like Bank Iowa on social media and encourage friends and family to do the same.
Community members can donate directly to Can Do Cancer or like Bank Iowa on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.
Take control of your chronic pain
Posted 10/1/2020
Dallas County Hospital is holding a virtual event for you to learn more about options for taking control of your chronic pain on Oct. 8 at 5:30 p.m. Space is limited, so register at tiny.cc/ControlYourPain. Hear from Dr. Jolene Smith and a special guest chronic pain patient. If you have any questions about the event, call John Welch at 515-360-1171 or email at John.Welch@bsci.com.
Dallas County Hospital is holding a virtual event for you to learn more about options for taking control of your chronic pain on Oct. 8 at 5:30 p.m. Space is limited, so register at tiny.cc/ControlYourPain. Hear from Dr. Jolene Smith and a special guest chronic pain patient. If you have any questions about the event, call John Welch at 515-360-1171 or email at John.Welch@bsci.com.
The Wellmark Foundation donates to EPIC Inclusive Playground Project
Posted 10/1/2020
The Wellmark Foundation recently contributed $100,000 to the Waukee Betterment Foundation’s EPIC Inclusive Playground project that will serve those of all abilities in Waukee’s future Triumph Park. This 2020 Large Matching Assets to Community Health (MATCH) grant will help the Waukee Betterment Foundation work toward its $2.7 million fundraising goal for this project.
The Waukee Betterment Foundation and playground design firm Landscape Structures Inc. revealed the look of the Waukee EPIC Inclusive Playground in January. The firm builds only one EPIC Playground every year, and Waukee’s will be the most inclusive to date of its size. The 15,000-square-foot playground will feature mobility device access at various levels, rubberized surfacing for accessibility and safety, a seating wall, sensory features, STEM panels, shade structures, and accessible parking and restrooms. The playground will be situated near the Greater Iowa Credit Union Miracle League Field and an accessible fishing pier.
The City of Waukee’s 66-acre Triumph Park will feature a sports complex with 12 softball/baseball fields, practice areas, concessions, accessible restrooms, 800-plus parking spaces, an 11-acre pond amenity and stormwater management feature, greenspaces, trails and the Waukee Betterment Foundation’s inclusive amenities. Construction is expected to begin this fall, with an opening date of spring 2022 planned.
The Wellmark Foundation recently contributed $100,000 to the Waukee Betterment Foundation’s EPIC Inclusive Playground project that will serve those of all abilities in Waukee’s future Triumph Park. This 2020 Large Matching Assets to Community Health (MATCH) grant will help the Waukee Betterment Foundation work toward its $2.7 million fundraising goal for this project.
The Waukee Betterment Foundation and playground design firm Landscape Structures Inc. revealed the look of the Waukee EPIC Inclusive Playground in January. The firm builds only one EPIC Playground every year, and Waukee’s will be the most inclusive to date of its size. The 15,000-square-foot playground will feature mobility device access at various levels, rubberized surfacing for accessibility and safety, a seating wall, sensory features, STEM panels, shade structures, and accessible parking and restrooms. The playground will be situated near the Greater Iowa Credit Union Miracle League Field and an accessible fishing pier.
The City of Waukee’s 66-acre Triumph Park will feature a sports complex with 12 softball/baseball fields, practice areas, concessions, accessible restrooms, 800-plus parking spaces, an 11-acre pond amenity and stormwater management feature, greenspaces, trails and the Waukee Betterment Foundation’s inclusive amenities. Construction is expected to begin this fall, with an opening date of spring 2022 planned.
Waukee Fire Department Reminds Residents about Fire Safety
Posted 10/1/2020
The Waukee Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years — to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” The campaign, which runs Oct. 4-10, works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe. The Waukee Fire Department encourages all residents to embrace the 2020 Fire Prevention Week theme.
The Waukee Fire Department will be sharing videos, graphics and more on its Facebook page (WaukeeFire) as well as at www.Waukee.org/fire in support of this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign.
The Waukee Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years — to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” The campaign, which runs Oct. 4-10, works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe. The Waukee Fire Department encourages all residents to embrace the 2020 Fire Prevention Week theme.
The Waukee Fire Department will be sharing videos, graphics and more on its Facebook page (WaukeeFire) as well as at www.Waukee.org/fire in support of this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign.
Adult Coed Indoor Volleyball
Posted 10/1/2020
Adult Coed Indoor Volleyball League registration is now open. There will be a competitive league along with a recreational division. The league starts Nov. 15 and goes through March 7. Gather up a team and register at www.Waukee.org/registration.
Adult Coed Indoor Volleyball League registration is now open. There will be a competitive league along with a recreational division. The league starts Nov. 15 and goes through March 7. Gather up a team and register at www.Waukee.org/registration.
Program Highlight: Study Hall
Posted 10/1/2020
Busy parents with at-home, online learners will be able to drop off their students in grades K-5th at the Waukee Community Center on Thursdays for supervised learning! Parents can utilize this time to schedule work meetings, run errands, etc. Children will be required to wear a mask while indoors and use personal headphones when interacting with their teacher. Parks & Recreation staff will not be leading any instruction for the students, and students must be proficient with the use of their computer. Children will be seated one student per table and should bring their own drinks, snacks and lunch, if needed. The cost is $5.
Upcoming dates include Oct. 8, 15 and 22. All sessions go from 8:40 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. but have early drop-off and late pick-up options available.
To register and for more information about additional sessions, go to www.Waukee.org/registration.
Busy parents with at-home, online learners will be able to drop off their students in grades K-5th at the Waukee Community Center on Thursdays for supervised learning! Parents can utilize this time to schedule work meetings, run errands, etc. Children will be required to wear a mask while indoors and use personal headphones when interacting with their teacher. Parks & Recreation staff will not be leading any instruction for the students, and students must be proficient with the use of their computer. Children will be seated one student per table and should bring their own drinks, snacks and lunch, if needed. The cost is $5.
Upcoming dates include Oct. 8, 15 and 22. All sessions go from 8:40 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. but have early drop-off and late pick-up options available.
To register and for more information about additional sessions, go to www.Waukee.org/registration.
YOUTH LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE CLASS
Posted 9/25/2020
The Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute is pleased to announce participants in the Youth Leadership Initiative Class of 2021. The Youth Leadership Initiative provides high school students with hands-on leadership experiences that build self-confidence and encourage engagement in all levels of community life. At the conclusion of the program, students will:
• Value community involvement
• Demonstrate professional skills and an understanding of career opportunities
• Demonstrate the five practices of exemplary leadership
• Have developed lifelong relationships with peers, mentors, and community members
The Youth Leadership Initiative Class of 2021 includes 22 students from 16 public and private schools from across Greater Des Moines. Due to the pandemic, class size was reduced and a hybrid model of outdoor venues and virtual meetings will be leveraged to enhance the experience and safety of this year’s participants.
Alyssa Giles from Waukee High School was chosen as one of the 22 students this year.
Participation in the Youth Leadership Initiative is tuition free. The Youth Leadership Initiative is generously sponsored by the Greater Des Moines Partnership, Drake University, and Sammons Financial Group. For more information, please visit gdmli.com/yli.
The Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute is pleased to announce participants in the Youth Leadership Initiative Class of 2021. The Youth Leadership Initiative provides high school students with hands-on leadership experiences that build self-confidence and encourage engagement in all levels of community life. At the conclusion of the program, students will:
• Value community involvement
• Demonstrate professional skills and an understanding of career opportunities
• Demonstrate the five practices of exemplary leadership
• Have developed lifelong relationships with peers, mentors, and community members
The Youth Leadership Initiative Class of 2021 includes 22 students from 16 public and private schools from across Greater Des Moines. Due to the pandemic, class size was reduced and a hybrid model of outdoor venues and virtual meetings will be leveraged to enhance the experience and safety of this year’s participants.
Alyssa Giles from Waukee High School was chosen as one of the 22 students this year.
Participation in the Youth Leadership Initiative is tuition free. The Youth Leadership Initiative is generously sponsored by the Greater Des Moines Partnership, Drake University, and Sammons Financial Group. For more information, please visit gdmli.com/yli.
Prescription Drug Take-Back Day is Oct. 24
Posted 9/25/2020
The DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient and responsible way of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. Waukee area residents can be a part of the effort.
The Waukee Public Safety Building at 1300 S.E. L.A. Grant Parkway will be open Saturday, Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to accept pills and patches for disposal. Prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding your home of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. The DEA cannot accept liquids or needles. The PD will also collect vape pens or other e-cigarette devices from individual consumers during the Oct. 24 Drug Take-Back Day. However, the consumer is responsible for removing the batteries prior to drop-off. If the batteries cannot be removed, individual consumers can check with large electronic chain stores who may accept the vape pen or e-cigarette devices for proper disposal.
A Drug Drop-Box is also located in the lobby of the Waukee Public Safety Building year-round for drop-off Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient and responsible way of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. Waukee area residents can be a part of the effort.
The Waukee Public Safety Building at 1300 S.E. L.A. Grant Parkway will be open Saturday, Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to accept pills and patches for disposal. Prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding your home of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. The DEA cannot accept liquids or needles. The PD will also collect vape pens or other e-cigarette devices from individual consumers during the Oct. 24 Drug Take-Back Day. However, the consumer is responsible for removing the batteries prior to drop-off. If the batteries cannot be removed, individual consumers can check with large electronic chain stores who may accept the vape pen or e-cigarette devices for proper disposal.
A Drug Drop-Box is also located in the lobby of the Waukee Public Safety Building year-round for drop-off Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Waukee Mayor Delaying Mask Mandate Due to Newly Released Data
Posted 9/18/2020
The emergency proclamation requiring face coverings in public places in Waukee, originally set to go into effect Sept. 18, 2020, is being delayed as City officials review newly released data. The City of Waukee received zip code-specific data from the Dallas County Public Health Department. Although the data has been requested previously, this is the first time that Waukee-specific positive COVID-19 case numbers have been made available to City officials.
“Up until today, we’ve had to make community decisions related to COVID-19 based on countywide information,” said Waukee Mayor Courtney Clarke. “Now that these Waukee-specific numbers are being made available, we will be able to make more exact data-driven decisions as to how to protect community members from contracting COVID-19.”
According to the newly released data, there were 40 total active cases diagnosed in Waukee from Sept. 5 through Sept. 14, 2020.
“We are requesting the historical zip code-specific data for our City and plan to work with Dallas County and State health officials to review trends.” Clarke said. “It is our hope that with this analysis, we can set a data-driven target for future mask mandate proclamations.”
Mayor Clarke’s current proclamation is being amended to strongly encourage the wearing of facial coverings in public settings in Waukee. Visit www.waukee.org for updates.
The emergency proclamation requiring face coverings in public places in Waukee, originally set to go into effect Sept. 18, 2020, is being delayed as City officials review newly released data. The City of Waukee received zip code-specific data from the Dallas County Public Health Department. Although the data has been requested previously, this is the first time that Waukee-specific positive COVID-19 case numbers have been made available to City officials.
“Up until today, we’ve had to make community decisions related to COVID-19 based on countywide information,” said Waukee Mayor Courtney Clarke. “Now that these Waukee-specific numbers are being made available, we will be able to make more exact data-driven decisions as to how to protect community members from contracting COVID-19.”
According to the newly released data, there were 40 total active cases diagnosed in Waukee from Sept. 5 through Sept. 14, 2020.
“We are requesting the historical zip code-specific data for our City and plan to work with Dallas County and State health officials to review trends.” Clarke said. “It is our hope that with this analysis, we can set a data-driven target for future mask mandate proclamations.”
Mayor Clarke’s current proclamation is being amended to strongly encourage the wearing of facial coverings in public settings in Waukee. Visit www.waukee.org for updates.
Enjoy Fall Fun with the Paint-a-Pumpkin and movie in the park
Posted 9/18/2020
Break out your Halloween costumes early and join the Waukee Parks and Recreation Department for a night of fall fun. For $5, kids can sign up to Paint-a-Pumpkin, which will take place on Friday, Oct. 2 from 5-6:30 p.m. at Centennial Park. Preregistered participants will be able to pick out their own pumpkin and will also receive paints and brushes, a glow stick and caramel apple supplies. Stick around to have your hand painted with a fun design and eat Halloween candy.
The free Movies in the Park, “The Addams Family,” will begin at 6:35 p.m. 515 Pi Food Truck will be serving up delicious pizza for attendees to purchase as well.
Register for Paint-a-Pumpkin by Sept. 28 at www.waukee.org.
Break out your Halloween costumes early and join the Waukee Parks and Recreation Department for a night of fall fun. For $5, kids can sign up to Paint-a-Pumpkin, which will take place on Friday, Oct. 2 from 5-6:30 p.m. at Centennial Park. Preregistered participants will be able to pick out their own pumpkin and will also receive paints and brushes, a glow stick and caramel apple supplies. Stick around to have your hand painted with a fun design and eat Halloween candy.
The free Movies in the Park, “The Addams Family,” will begin at 6:35 p.m. 515 Pi Food Truck will be serving up delicious pizza for attendees to purchase as well.
Register for Paint-a-Pumpkin by Sept. 28 at www.waukee.org.
2020 Winter Warmth Drive Kicks Off
Posted 9/18/2020
To combat the ferocious winter temperatures this holiday season, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is partnering with Winter Warmth Drive to collect winter wear for Des Moines area children and families in need.
72,500 families in the Des Moines metro live at or below poverty level. More than 50,000 students in the metro qualify for either free or reduced lunch. Most families who are food insecure also don’t have the means to purchase appropriate winter wear attire for the freezing temperatures.
Due to COVID-19, the drive will be a little different this year. They will still be collecting the same items as years past, they just won’t be holding the annual “Fill the Truck” event. Instead, they are taking donations at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Des Moines’ office and the Valley Community Center. They are also accepting and appreciate monetary donations at www.winterwarmthdrive.org/donate/.
Drop off locations:
• TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Des Moines, 2601 104th St., Urbandale, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Valley Community Center, 4444 Fuller Road, West Des Moines, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Items requested for donation include all sizes of new or gently used coats, hats, gloves, scarves, snow pants and boots.
To combat the ferocious winter temperatures this holiday season, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is partnering with Winter Warmth Drive to collect winter wear for Des Moines area children and families in need.
72,500 families in the Des Moines metro live at or below poverty level. More than 50,000 students in the metro qualify for either free or reduced lunch. Most families who are food insecure also don’t have the means to purchase appropriate winter wear attire for the freezing temperatures.
Due to COVID-19, the drive will be a little different this year. They will still be collecting the same items as years past, they just won’t be holding the annual “Fill the Truck” event. Instead, they are taking donations at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Des Moines’ office and the Valley Community Center. They are also accepting and appreciate monetary donations at www.winterwarmthdrive.org/donate/.
Drop off locations:
• TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Des Moines, 2601 104th St., Urbandale, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Valley Community Center, 4444 Fuller Road, West Des Moines, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Items requested for donation include all sizes of new or gently used coats, hats, gloves, scarves, snow pants and boots.
Capital Improvement Projects Update
Posted 9/18/2020
The City of Waukee is continually working on public capital improvement projects which address current needs, sustain existing infrastructure and ensure that the City’s services and amenities are ready for continued growth of the Waukee community.
• Waukee Public Library Stormwater Improvements Project
• N.W. 10th Street/N.W. Sunrise Drive Improvements
• ADA Sidewalk Improvements
• Alice Nizzi and Glynn Village Parks
• Alice’s Road Landscape Enhancements
See a full list of the City’s capital improvement projects.
at www.waukee.org.
The City of Waukee is continually working on public capital improvement projects which address current needs, sustain existing infrastructure and ensure that the City’s services and amenities are ready for continued growth of the Waukee community.
• Waukee Public Library Stormwater Improvements Project
• N.W. 10th Street/N.W. Sunrise Drive Improvements
• ADA Sidewalk Improvements
• Alice Nizzi and Glynn Village Parks
• Alice’s Road Landscape Enhancements
See a full list of the City’s capital improvement projects.
at www.waukee.org.
Waukee PD Welcomes Two New Officers
Posted 9/11/2020
Two new police officers, Cole Jackson and Austin Gibbs, recently joined the Waukee Police Department.
Officer Jackson previously worked for the Jefferson (Iowa) Police Department. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Northwestern Oklahoma State University and is a graduate of the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy.
Officer Gibbs also has a degree in Criminal Justice, his from Buena Vista University. Most recently, he worked at Woodward Academy. He will attend the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy prior to entering field training and full-time patrol work.
With Jackson and Gibbs on board, the Waukee Police Department now has 27 officers on its roster, serving a community of approximately 25,000 residents (and growing).
Two new police officers, Cole Jackson and Austin Gibbs, recently joined the Waukee Police Department.
Officer Jackson previously worked for the Jefferson (Iowa) Police Department. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Northwestern Oklahoma State University and is a graduate of the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy.
Officer Gibbs also has a degree in Criminal Justice, his from Buena Vista University. Most recently, he worked at Woodward Academy. He will attend the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy prior to entering field training and full-time patrol work.
With Jackson and Gibbs on board, the Waukee Police Department now has 27 officers on its roster, serving a community of approximately 25,000 residents (and growing).
National Suicide Awareness Month
Posted 9/11/2020
September is National Suicide Prevention and Awareness month, and Dallas Co. Hospital’s Senior Life Solutions is working to raise awareness and educate the community on the risk factors and warning signs of suicide. Talk of suicide should never be dismissed. If you, or someone you know, are thinking of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
Senior Life Solution is an intensive outpatient group therapy program designed to meet the unique needs of senior adults living with symptoms of age-related depression or anxiety, dealing with difficult life transitions, a recent health diagnosis, or the loss of a loved one.
For more information, or if an older loved one is in need of help, call Dallas Co. Hospital at phone number 515-465-7580.
September is National Suicide Prevention and Awareness month, and Dallas Co. Hospital’s Senior Life Solutions is working to raise awareness and educate the community on the risk factors and warning signs of suicide. Talk of suicide should never be dismissed. If you, or someone you know, are thinking of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
Senior Life Solution is an intensive outpatient group therapy program designed to meet the unique needs of senior adults living with symptoms of age-related depression or anxiety, dealing with difficult life transitions, a recent health diagnosis, or the loss of a loved one.
For more information, or if an older loved one is in need of help, call Dallas Co. Hospital at phone number 515-465-7580.
Vintage & Made Fair
Posted 9/11/2020
Vintage & Made Fair is inspired by indie craft and all things vintage. The fall edition will be held at the Dallas County Fairgrounds in Adel on Saturday, Sept. 19 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
It is an indoor/outdoor market featuring antique and vintage home décor, jewelry, handcrafted goods, seasonal flora, local eats and everything you need to create a vintage and handmade lifestyle.
For this fall, they have taken a variety of steps to ensure safety measures are implemented across the event site. The plan is a transparent compilation of all protocols in place to assure that everyone stays safe and in accordance with the State of Iowa’s Covid Guidelines.
Presented by the locally owned, Vintage No. 35. Admission is $8/person. Ages 12 and younger are free. See more at www.vintageandmadefair.com.
Vintage & Made Fair is inspired by indie craft and all things vintage. The fall edition will be held at the Dallas County Fairgrounds in Adel on Saturday, Sept. 19 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
It is an indoor/outdoor market featuring antique and vintage home décor, jewelry, handcrafted goods, seasonal flora, local eats and everything you need to create a vintage and handmade lifestyle.
For this fall, they have taken a variety of steps to ensure safety measures are implemented across the event site. The plan is a transparent compilation of all protocols in place to assure that everyone stays safe and in accordance with the State of Iowa’s Covid Guidelines.
Presented by the locally owned, Vintage No. 35. Admission is $8/person. Ages 12 and younger are free. See more at www.vintageandmadefair.com.
Waukee Crime Stoppers’ annual golf tournament postponed to Sept. 21
Posted 9/11/2020
Due to inclement weather, the Waukee Crime Stoppers’ annual golf tournament is postponed to Monday, Sept. 21. The event will be held at Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course
Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. with a shotgun start following at 8 a.m. The cost is $240 per four-person team which includes 18 holes of golf, two carts per team and lunch.
For more information, contact Lynn Hakenson at 515-707-4500 or lhakenson@specialtygraphics.com.
Due to inclement weather, the Waukee Crime Stoppers’ annual golf tournament is postponed to Monday, Sept. 21. The event will be held at Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course
Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. with a shotgun start following at 8 a.m. The cost is $240 per four-person team which includes 18 holes of golf, two carts per team and lunch.
For more information, contact Lynn Hakenson at 515-707-4500 or lhakenson@specialtygraphics.com.
Bond referendum passed
Posted 9/11/2020
The Bond Referendum supporting Waukee School’s 10-year facility and financial plan passed at 88 percent on Sept. 8. The bond money will be used to build two middle school buildings, an elementary building and other improvements.
The Bond Referendum supporting Waukee School’s 10-year facility and financial plan passed at 88 percent on Sept. 8. The bond money will be used to build two middle school buildings, an elementary building and other improvements.
Waukee Library news
Posted 9/11/2020
As a precaution to help limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), the Library will be closed until further notice. Curbside Service is now available. Explore materials in the online catalog and place a hold on any item you wish to receive or call (515) 978-7944. Visit www.waukeepubliclibrary.org for upcoming events.
• Elementary Maker Monday, Sept. 14. This week’s activity is making balancing birds. Check back on or after Sept. 14, to watch the how-to video.
• Virtual Books on Tap, Sept. 15, 6:30 p.m. Books on Tap will continue to “meet” online—just remember to BYOB. For updates and dicussion opportunities, join our “Books on Tap” Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/WPLBooksOnTap/
• Storytime Online, Sept. 16. Each Wednesday we will be sharing a new online storytime for you to enjoy. Each storytime will include a book reading, songs, and an activity you can do at home.
• Elementary Maker Monday, Sept. 21. This week’s activity is making your own window clings. Check back on or after Sept. 21, to watch the how-to video.
• Fall Wreath Class, Sept. 26, 1 p.m. In this free online class, crafter Joyce Petro will take you step-by-step through the process of making a fall ribbon-wrapped wreath with paper pumpkin accents. Display in your home or on your front door for an added decorative flair this fall. Registration is required for this online class. Those on the registration list for this class will be able to pick-up their wreath supply kit (one per household) via curbside pick-up on Friday, Sept. 25 from 10 a.m. to noon or 4-6 p.m. Curbside pick-up will be located at the library (unless otherwise stated). Library staff will be wearing masks during distribution. Ribbon included in the kit may vary. Those who are registered to “attend” will be emailed a private link to the class video—so double check that you have entered a valid email address. The class video will only be available to view from Saturday, Sept. 26 at 1 p.m. until Saturday, Oct. 3 at 1 p.m.
As a precaution to help limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), the Library will be closed until further notice. Curbside Service is now available. Explore materials in the online catalog and place a hold on any item you wish to receive or call (515) 978-7944. Visit www.waukeepubliclibrary.org for upcoming events.
• Elementary Maker Monday, Sept. 14. This week’s activity is making balancing birds. Check back on or after Sept. 14, to watch the how-to video.
• Virtual Books on Tap, Sept. 15, 6:30 p.m. Books on Tap will continue to “meet” online—just remember to BYOB. For updates and dicussion opportunities, join our “Books on Tap” Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/WPLBooksOnTap/
• Storytime Online, Sept. 16. Each Wednesday we will be sharing a new online storytime for you to enjoy. Each storytime will include a book reading, songs, and an activity you can do at home.
• Elementary Maker Monday, Sept. 21. This week’s activity is making your own window clings. Check back on or after Sept. 21, to watch the how-to video.
• Fall Wreath Class, Sept. 26, 1 p.m. In this free online class, crafter Joyce Petro will take you step-by-step through the process of making a fall ribbon-wrapped wreath with paper pumpkin accents. Display in your home or on your front door for an added decorative flair this fall. Registration is required for this online class. Those on the registration list for this class will be able to pick-up their wreath supply kit (one per household) via curbside pick-up on Friday, Sept. 25 from 10 a.m. to noon or 4-6 p.m. Curbside pick-up will be located at the library (unless otherwise stated). Library staff will be wearing masks during distribution. Ribbon included in the kit may vary. Those who are registered to “attend” will be emailed a private link to the class video—so double check that you have entered a valid email address. The class video will only be available to view from Saturday, Sept. 26 at 1 p.m. until Saturday, Oct. 3 at 1 p.m.
Waukee Parks & Rec Programs Open for Registration
Posted 9/3/2020
Not all typical Waukee Parks & Recreation programs and events will be held this fall and winter, and a printed program guide will not the mailed. However, the department is still able to provide some youth and adult programs. Several are open for registration now.
• Registration is open now for Adult Coed Indoor Volleyball league which will take place Nov. 15 through March 7. Games will be played on Sundays between 1 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. at Waukee Middle School. The league will have both B (competitive) and C (recreational) divisions available. League games are officiated. The cost is $325 per team.
• Register Now for Youth Basketball. Enjoy this introductory basketball league with practice, drills and a scrimmage during week one. Weeks two through six will include practice and warm-up time before playing scheduled games. The goal of this league is to teach young participants the basic skills and rules of basketball as well as sportsmanship. Teams will be formed at random. The league takes place for boys and girls in grade K-3rd from Jan. 9 through Feb. 13. Games are played on Saturdays. Volunteer coaches are needed.
• Dickey’s Ryuku Karate and Little Ninjas are open for registration. Instructor Dickey Renshi has more than 35 years of martial arts teaching experience. The Wednesday evening classes “kick” off Sept. 16.
As the COVID-19 situation evolves, programs may be added and events may be canceled or modified. Visit the Parks & Rec homepage or the Waukee Parks & Recreation Facebook page for future announcements.
Call 515-978-0007 with any questions.
Not all typical Waukee Parks & Recreation programs and events will be held this fall and winter, and a printed program guide will not the mailed. However, the department is still able to provide some youth and adult programs. Several are open for registration now.
• Registration is open now for Adult Coed Indoor Volleyball league which will take place Nov. 15 through March 7. Games will be played on Sundays between 1 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. at Waukee Middle School. The league will have both B (competitive) and C (recreational) divisions available. League games are officiated. The cost is $325 per team.
• Register Now for Youth Basketball. Enjoy this introductory basketball league with practice, drills and a scrimmage during week one. Weeks two through six will include practice and warm-up time before playing scheduled games. The goal of this league is to teach young participants the basic skills and rules of basketball as well as sportsmanship. Teams will be formed at random. The league takes place for boys and girls in grade K-3rd from Jan. 9 through Feb. 13. Games are played on Saturdays. Volunteer coaches are needed.
• Dickey’s Ryuku Karate and Little Ninjas are open for registration. Instructor Dickey Renshi has more than 35 years of martial arts teaching experience. The Wednesday evening classes “kick” off Sept. 16.
As the COVID-19 situation evolves, programs may be added and events may be canceled or modified. Visit the Parks & Rec homepage or the Waukee Parks & Recreation Facebook page for future announcements.
Call 515-978-0007 with any questions.
IAHPERD Elementary Teacher of the Year
Posted 9/3/2020
Iowa Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance selected Casey Barclay, Maple Grove Physical Education Teacher, as the 2020 Iowa Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year.
As the recipient of this award, Barclay will be considered for recognition as the Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year for the nine-state Central District region and then possibly the National Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year.
Iowa Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance selected Casey Barclay, Maple Grove Physical Education Teacher, as the 2020 Iowa Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year.
As the recipient of this award, Barclay will be considered for recognition as the Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year for the nine-state Central District region and then possibly the National Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year.
Census Takers Heading Door-to-Door
Posted 8/27/2020
Have you responded to the 2020 U.S. Census yet? There’s still time. Visit 2020census.gov or call 1-844-330-2020. Census takers are now knocking on doors of households that have not responded. The U.S. Census Bureau states that it continues to prioritize the health and safety of its workforce and the public. They will wear masks and carry badges and cellphones with the bureau’s logo on them.
Plans are to finish non-response follow-ups (NRFU) by Sept. 30, 2020. Self-response options will also close on that date to permit the commencement of data processing. Under this plan, the Census Bureau intends to meet a similar level of household responses as collected in prior censuses, including outreach to hard-to-count communities.
Have you responded to the 2020 U.S. Census yet? There’s still time. Visit 2020census.gov or call 1-844-330-2020. Census takers are now knocking on doors of households that have not responded. The U.S. Census Bureau states that it continues to prioritize the health and safety of its workforce and the public. They will wear masks and carry badges and cellphones with the bureau’s logo on them.
Plans are to finish non-response follow-ups (NRFU) by Sept. 30, 2020. Self-response options will also close on that date to permit the commencement of data processing. Under this plan, the Census Bureau intends to meet a similar level of household responses as collected in prior censuses, including outreach to hard-to-count communities.
Get a Flu Shot and Give Meals to the Food Pantry
Posted 8/27/2020
This year more than ever, it is important to get your annual flu shot. The flu shot is still the best way to protect yourself and those around you from the flu. Not only will it protect you, but it will help reduce trips to the doctor’s office and hospitals, which will be extremely important this year to help conserve valuable healthcare resources.
Timing of your flu shot does matter. It is important to get the flu shot at the right time to make sure it lasts the entire season. Just recently the CDC reiterated that it is important to get a flu shot by the end of October and receiving one prior to September may be too early, as vaccine immunity may wane before the season is over.
Through the partnership with the Food Bank of Iowa, Medicap Pharmacy will donate 12 meals to the local food pantry for every flu shot given at participating Medicap Pharmacy locations from Sept. 23 through Nov. 23, 2020. Visit www.IowaFluShots.com for more information.
Medicap Pharmacy is taking extra precautions this year to help protect patients and staff. They are offering a contactless immunization form option this year. Call your local Medicap today to find out more.
This year more than ever, it is important to get your annual flu shot. The flu shot is still the best way to protect yourself and those around you from the flu. Not only will it protect you, but it will help reduce trips to the doctor’s office and hospitals, which will be extremely important this year to help conserve valuable healthcare resources.
Timing of your flu shot does matter. It is important to get the flu shot at the right time to make sure it lasts the entire season. Just recently the CDC reiterated that it is important to get a flu shot by the end of October and receiving one prior to September may be too early, as vaccine immunity may wane before the season is over.
Through the partnership with the Food Bank of Iowa, Medicap Pharmacy will donate 12 meals to the local food pantry for every flu shot given at participating Medicap Pharmacy locations from Sept. 23 through Nov. 23, 2020. Visit www.IowaFluShots.com for more information.
Medicap Pharmacy is taking extra precautions this year to help protect patients and staff. They are offering a contactless immunization form option this year. Call your local Medicap today to find out more.
Fire Department staff honored
Posted 8/27/2020
The Central Iowa Code Consortium awarded Fire Chief Clint Robinson, Fire Marshal Justin Frederick and Building Official Keith Rash certificates of recognition for their contributions as committee members for the Capital Crossroads vision. Capital Crossroads is a plan that aims to develop a framework for development throughout Central Iowa.
The Central Iowa Code Consortium awarded Fire Chief Clint Robinson, Fire Marshal Justin Frederick and Building Official Keith Rash certificates of recognition for their contributions as committee members for the Capital Crossroads vision. Capital Crossroads is a plan that aims to develop a framework for development throughout Central Iowa.
Waukee Parks & Rec Programs Open for Registration
Posted 8/20/2020
Not all typical Waukee Parks & Recreation programs and events will be held this fall and winter, and a printed program guide will not the mailed. However, the department is still able to provide some youth and adult programs. Several are open for registration now.
• Youth Programs: Tumbling Tots, Dickey’s Ryukyu Little Ninjas/Karate, Studio Bea Dance - 2 to Move, Sunflower Fine Art, and Red Cross Babysitting Training.
• Adult Programs: Yoga in the Park (Aug. 22, Sept. 12 and Sept. 26), Sunflower Fine Art, Dinner Delights and Co-ed Sand Volleyball
Register for these programs now.
• Registration for Youth Basketball League and Adult Indoor Volleyball League will open on Tuesday, Sept. 1 at 8 a.m.
• Waukee’s Movies in the Park will also resume this fall with “Jumanji: The Next Level” (PG-13) on Friday, Sept. 11 at 7:30 p.m. and “The Addams Family” (PG) on Friday, Oct. 2 at 6:45 p.m. Both will be held at Waukee’s Centennial Park. Admission is free thanks to program sponsor NCMIC. Distancing in the park is encouraged.
As the COVID-19 situation evolves, programs may be added and events may be canceled or modified. Please visit the Parks & Rec homepage or the Waukee Parks & Recreation Facebook page for future announcements.
Call 515-978-0007 with any questions.
Not all typical Waukee Parks & Recreation programs and events will be held this fall and winter, and a printed program guide will not the mailed. However, the department is still able to provide some youth and adult programs. Several are open for registration now.
• Youth Programs: Tumbling Tots, Dickey’s Ryukyu Little Ninjas/Karate, Studio Bea Dance - 2 to Move, Sunflower Fine Art, and Red Cross Babysitting Training.
• Adult Programs: Yoga in the Park (Aug. 22, Sept. 12 and Sept. 26), Sunflower Fine Art, Dinner Delights and Co-ed Sand Volleyball
Register for these programs now.
• Registration for Youth Basketball League and Adult Indoor Volleyball League will open on Tuesday, Sept. 1 at 8 a.m.
• Waukee’s Movies in the Park will also resume this fall with “Jumanji: The Next Level” (PG-13) on Friday, Sept. 11 at 7:30 p.m. and “The Addams Family” (PG) on Friday, Oct. 2 at 6:45 p.m. Both will be held at Waukee’s Centennial Park. Admission is free thanks to program sponsor NCMIC. Distancing in the park is encouraged.
As the COVID-19 situation evolves, programs may be added and events may be canceled or modified. Please visit the Parks & Rec homepage or the Waukee Parks & Recreation Facebook page for future announcements.
Call 515-978-0007 with any questions.
Police Officers Issuing Safety Coupons
Posted 8/20/2020
Watch out kids: officers with the Waukee Police Department might just pull you over... for using good safety measures. The Waukee Police Department will be on the look-out for kids who are:
• Wearing helmets while riding their bike/scooter.
• Looking both ways when crossing the street.
• Being awesome and safe, because safety is awesome.
If you get caught being safe, an officer will give you a ticket for a free one scoop custard cone or dish at Culver’s of Waukee. So, when you hit the streets, be safe. It could pay off with a cold treat.
Watch out kids: officers with the Waukee Police Department might just pull you over... for using good safety measures. The Waukee Police Department will be on the look-out for kids who are:
• Wearing helmets while riding their bike/scooter.
• Looking both ways when crossing the street.
• Being awesome and safe, because safety is awesome.
If you get caught being safe, an officer will give you a ticket for a free one scoop custard cone or dish at Culver’s of Waukee. So, when you hit the streets, be safe. It could pay off with a cold treat.
Fleet Farm Grand Opening
Posted 8/20/2020
You’re invited to the Grand Opening Celebration of the new Waukee store, 1300 S.E. Kettlestone Blvd., starting Friday, Aug. 28. Doors open at 7 a.m. Be one of the first 500 customers on Friday, Aug. 28 and Saturday, Aug. 29 to receive a free Fleet Farm exclusive hat. Earn a prize in the store-wide scavenger hunt through Monday, Sept. 7 (while supplies last). Stop in for your chance to win more than $3,500 in prizes. Don’t miss out on the chance to check out ExxonMobil’s MPZ, a semi-trailer displaying the Mobil Delvac line of products, along with a variety of Mobil branded giveaways (while supplies last).
You’re invited to the Grand Opening Celebration of the new Waukee store, 1300 S.E. Kettlestone Blvd., starting Friday, Aug. 28. Doors open at 7 a.m. Be one of the first 500 customers on Friday, Aug. 28 and Saturday, Aug. 29 to receive a free Fleet Farm exclusive hat. Earn a prize in the store-wide scavenger hunt through Monday, Sept. 7 (while supplies last). Stop in for your chance to win more than $3,500 in prizes. Don’t miss out on the chance to check out ExxonMobil’s MPZ, a semi-trailer displaying the Mobil Delvac line of products, along with a variety of Mobil branded giveaways (while supplies last).
Capital Improvement Projects Update
Posted 8/20/2020
The City of Waukee is continually working on public capital improvement projects which address current needs, sustain existing infrastructure and ensure that the City’s services and amenities are ready for continued growth of the Waukee community.
• Waukee Public Library Stormwater Improvements Project
• N.W. 10th Street/N.W. Sunrise Drive Improvements
• ADA Sidewalk Improvements
• Alice Nizzi and Glynn Village Parks
• Alice’s Road Landscape Enhancements
See a full list of the City’s capital improvement projects at www.waukee.org.
The City of Waukee is continually working on public capital improvement projects which address current needs, sustain existing infrastructure and ensure that the City’s services and amenities are ready for continued growth of the Waukee community.
• Waukee Public Library Stormwater Improvements Project
• N.W. 10th Street/N.W. Sunrise Drive Improvements
• ADA Sidewalk Improvements
• Alice Nizzi and Glynn Village Parks
• Alice’s Road Landscape Enhancements
See a full list of the City’s capital improvement projects at www.waukee.org.
Waukee School Board Meeting news
Posted 8/6/2020
At the July 13 Waukee School Board, the following was reported:
Approve Resolution Making Award of Eason Elementary Addition Project Construction Contract — $3,439,053
Approve Pay Application # 1 — Vince Meyer Learning Center Addition — $422,195.99.
Approve Pay Application #2 — Timberline Stadium Improvements — $286,363.58
Approve Pay Application #1 — Waukee Middle School Cooling Project — $20,456.49
Approve Pay Application #3 — Sugar Creek Elementary — $914,617.24
Approve Pay Application #1 — WHS/PVS Paving Improvements — $408,215
Approve Pay Application #21 — Northwest High School — $4,318,888.44
Approve Final Acceptance and Authorization of Payment for Grades 6-9 Security Camera Project — $16,415.20 as allowed by law
Approve Change Order #1 — Timberline Stadium Improvements — $14,228.00. Additional work for ambulance service (curb removal) and press box audio
Approve Change Order #16 — Northwest High School — $45,444.14. Represents scoreboard and tennis court surfacing.
At the July 13 Waukee School Board, the following was reported:
Approve Resolution Making Award of Eason Elementary Addition Project Construction Contract — $3,439,053
Approve Pay Application # 1 — Vince Meyer Learning Center Addition — $422,195.99.
Approve Pay Application #2 — Timberline Stadium Improvements — $286,363.58
Approve Pay Application #1 — Waukee Middle School Cooling Project — $20,456.49
Approve Pay Application #3 — Sugar Creek Elementary — $914,617.24
Approve Pay Application #1 — WHS/PVS Paving Improvements — $408,215
Approve Pay Application #21 — Northwest High School — $4,318,888.44
Approve Final Acceptance and Authorization of Payment for Grades 6-9 Security Camera Project — $16,415.20 as allowed by law
Approve Change Order #1 — Timberline Stadium Improvements — $14,228.00. Additional work for ambulance service (curb removal) and press box audio
Approve Change Order #16 — Northwest High School — $45,444.14. Represents scoreboard and tennis court surfacing.
Waukee Economic Development Quarterly Update
Posted 7/30/2020
To browse through site plans, staff reports and more, visit www.waukee.org/170/Current-Development-Projects.
Now open. Please call ahead, as some businesses may have altered hours or even closed due to the pandemic.
• UnityPoint Clinic – Express is now open at 950 E. Hickman Road.
• The 3,500-square-foot Nest Pediatric Dentistry is now taking requests for appointments at 1250 S.E. University Ave.
• Des Moines Children’s Dentistry is now taking requests for appointments at 2335 SE L.A. Grant Parkway.
• The 5,800-square-foot Firestone Complete Auto Care, located on Hickman Road and west of N.E. Alice’s Road is now open.
To browse through site plans, staff reports and more, visit www.waukee.org/170/Current-Development-Projects.
Now open. Please call ahead, as some businesses may have altered hours or even closed due to the pandemic.
• UnityPoint Clinic – Express is now open at 950 E. Hickman Road.
• The 3,500-square-foot Nest Pediatric Dentistry is now taking requests for appointments at 1250 S.E. University Ave.
• Des Moines Children’s Dentistry is now taking requests for appointments at 2335 SE L.A. Grant Parkway.
• The 5,800-square-foot Firestone Complete Auto Care, located on Hickman Road and west of N.E. Alice’s Road is now open.
City of Waukee buildings closed to the public
Posted 7/23/2020
Due to the recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the Des Moines Metro area, all Waukee city offices will again be restricted to authorized personnel only. Utility bill payments, permit applications, inspection scheduling and other city business can be conducted without visiting these buildings in-person. The building vestibules will remain open for document drop-offs. Payment dropboxes are also available. Phone lines are still being staffed during office hours at these city buildings. If a face-to-face meeting is essential, visitors are asked to call ahead to schedule an appointment. Masks will be worn by both staff and visitors.
Due to the recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the Des Moines Metro area, all Waukee city offices will again be restricted to authorized personnel only. Utility bill payments, permit applications, inspection scheduling and other city business can be conducted without visiting these buildings in-person. The building vestibules will remain open for document drop-offs. Payment dropboxes are also available. Phone lines are still being staffed during office hours at these city buildings. If a face-to-face meeting is essential, visitors are asked to call ahead to schedule an appointment. Masks will be worn by both staff and visitors.
Waukee Economic Development Quarterly Update
Posted 7/23/2020
To browse through site plans, staff reports and more, visit www.waukee.org/170/Current-Development-Projects.
Currently under construction:
• The 6,700-square-foot Hy-Vee Fast & Fresh is under construction at 2855 Grand Prairie Parkway. The single-story Hy-Vee convenience store will feature a Smokey Row Coffee Shop and fueling stations.
• Kinship Brewing Company, located at 225 N.W. Sunrise Drive near the Raccoon River Valley Trail on 6.26 acres, is under construction. The site plan identifies the construction of a 12,150-square-foot building with an overall height of 27 feet. The brewery will feature space for beer production, a taproom, an outdoor plaza, a fenced dog park, food truck parking spaces, a Raccoon River Valley Trail connection and more.
• Construction on the 18,870-square-foot Stratford Crossing Light Industrial building is underway at 220 N.W. Sunrise Drive. The building is intended for office and warehouse space.
• The 18,750-square-foot Terrastone Properties Office Building is under construction at 2520 S.E. Encompass Drive in the Kettleview Development. A five-foot-wide sidewalk will be constructed along the south side of S.E. Tallgrass Lane.
• The 14,820-square-foot Graham Collision Center building is under construction and is located south of S.E. Laurel Street and east of S.E. Alice’s Road.
• Fleet Farm construction is progressing at 1300 S.E. Kettlestone Boulevard. The project is still on pace to open in late August. The traffic signals at the Kettlestone Boulevard and Grand Prairie Parkway intersection were recently turned on in anticipation of Fleet Farm opening.
• Construction of a 44,000-square-foot, three-story Sleep Inn is underway at 2885 Grand Prairie Parkway. The project is on pace to be completed late this summer.
To browse through site plans, staff reports and more, visit www.waukee.org/170/Current-Development-Projects.
Currently under construction:
• The 6,700-square-foot Hy-Vee Fast & Fresh is under construction at 2855 Grand Prairie Parkway. The single-story Hy-Vee convenience store will feature a Smokey Row Coffee Shop and fueling stations.
• Kinship Brewing Company, located at 225 N.W. Sunrise Drive near the Raccoon River Valley Trail on 6.26 acres, is under construction. The site plan identifies the construction of a 12,150-square-foot building with an overall height of 27 feet. The brewery will feature space for beer production, a taproom, an outdoor plaza, a fenced dog park, food truck parking spaces, a Raccoon River Valley Trail connection and more.
• Construction on the 18,870-square-foot Stratford Crossing Light Industrial building is underway at 220 N.W. Sunrise Drive. The building is intended for office and warehouse space.
• The 18,750-square-foot Terrastone Properties Office Building is under construction at 2520 S.E. Encompass Drive in the Kettleview Development. A five-foot-wide sidewalk will be constructed along the south side of S.E. Tallgrass Lane.
• The 14,820-square-foot Graham Collision Center building is under construction and is located south of S.E. Laurel Street and east of S.E. Alice’s Road.
• Fleet Farm construction is progressing at 1300 S.E. Kettlestone Boulevard. The project is still on pace to open in late August. The traffic signals at the Kettlestone Boulevard and Grand Prairie Parkway intersection were recently turned on in anticipation of Fleet Farm opening.
• Construction of a 44,000-square-foot, three-story Sleep Inn is underway at 2885 Grand Prairie Parkway. The project is on pace to be completed late this summer.
Activities director named
Posted 7/16/2020
Jim Duea, the longtime activities director at Waukee High School, will assume the same role at Waukee Northwest High School, which is scheduled to open in August 2021. Eric Boyle began his tenure as new activities director at WHS on July 1. Boyle and Duea will work in tandem this summer and fall as Duea makes the transition to Northwest.
Jim Duea, the longtime activities director at Waukee High School, will assume the same role at Waukee Northwest High School, which is scheduled to open in August 2021. Eric Boyle began his tenure as new activities director at WHS on July 1. Boyle and Duea will work in tandem this summer and fall as Duea makes the transition to Northwest.
Funeral notice
Posted 7/16/2020
• JoAnn Elizabeth Boswell, 81, of Waukee, passed away July 8, 2020. Graveside service will be held Saturday, July 18 at 10 a.m. at McDivitt Grove Cemetery, 7001 Meredith Drive, Urbandale. Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Heart Association. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
• JoAnn Elizabeth Boswell, 81, of Waukee, passed away July 8, 2020. Graveside service will be held Saturday, July 18 at 10 a.m. at McDivitt Grove Cemetery, 7001 Meredith Drive, Urbandale. Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Heart Association. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Waukee Economic Development Quarterly Update
Posted 7/16/2020
To browse through site plans, staff reports and more, visit www.waukee.org/170/Current-Development-Projects.
• On June 15, the Waukee City Council approved the site plan for the 5,490-square-foot Waukee Islamic Center to be constructed at 35 Laurel Street on 0.94 acres of land. This religious center will feature 50 parking spaces as well.
• On June 1, The Shops at Kettlestone North Plat 2 site plan was approved by the council. The project involves the construction of a private road, located along the east side of The Shops at Kettlestone North Plat 2. This road will continue the private road that will be located along the east sides of the Hy-Vee Fast and Fresh and Sleep Inn sites. This will provide connectivity through the development from SE Esker Ridge Drive down to Ashworth Road.
• On April 20, the Stone Prairie Plat 7 Phase 1 site plan was approved by the council. The project includes the construction of a single-story medical office building for an orthodontist office; the building is proposed to be 6,320 square feet in area.
To browse through site plans, staff reports and more, visit www.waukee.org/170/Current-Development-Projects.
• On June 15, the Waukee City Council approved the site plan for the 5,490-square-foot Waukee Islamic Center to be constructed at 35 Laurel Street on 0.94 acres of land. This religious center will feature 50 parking spaces as well.
• On June 1, The Shops at Kettlestone North Plat 2 site plan was approved by the council. The project involves the construction of a private road, located along the east side of The Shops at Kettlestone North Plat 2. This road will continue the private road that will be located along the east sides of the Hy-Vee Fast and Fresh and Sleep Inn sites. This will provide connectivity through the development from SE Esker Ridge Drive down to Ashworth Road.
• On April 20, the Stone Prairie Plat 7 Phase 1 site plan was approved by the council. The project includes the construction of a single-story medical office building for an orthodontist office; the building is proposed to be 6,320 square feet in area.
Waukee City Council news
Posted 7/9/2020
At the June 22 Waukee City Council special meeting, Mayor Clarke appointed Micki Henderson and reappointed Kayt Gabrielson and Kaba Kayembe to the Library Board of Trustees.
Police Chief Quinn shared the Waukee Police Department’s existing policies, including use of force, de-escalation training and biasbased profiling policy. The council agreed to a future work session discussion on a possible ordinance to formally adopt the policies.
Public Works Director/City Engineer Koester reviewed Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) plans to widen Interstate 80 from 60th Street in West Des Moines to Grand Prairie Parkway.
Mayor Clarke stated that she and Development Services Director Deets met with representatives of the Greater Des Moines YMCA and Waukee Family YMCA, at which meeting the YMCA requested financial support from the City. Mayor Clarke and Mr. Deets asked them to provide additional information and suggested they also meet with other metro-area entities regarding possible assistance. The council discussed the matter, noting the important work done by the YMCA in the city but also citing specific concerns with any possible contribution. The council agreed to discuss the matter further at a future work session meeting.
At the June 22 Waukee City Council special meeting, Mayor Clarke appointed Micki Henderson and reappointed Kayt Gabrielson and Kaba Kayembe to the Library Board of Trustees.
Police Chief Quinn shared the Waukee Police Department’s existing policies, including use of force, de-escalation training and biasbased profiling policy. The council agreed to a future work session discussion on a possible ordinance to formally adopt the policies.
Public Works Director/City Engineer Koester reviewed Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) plans to widen Interstate 80 from 60th Street in West Des Moines to Grand Prairie Parkway.
Mayor Clarke stated that she and Development Services Director Deets met with representatives of the Greater Des Moines YMCA and Waukee Family YMCA, at which meeting the YMCA requested financial support from the City. Mayor Clarke and Mr. Deets asked them to provide additional information and suggested they also meet with other metro-area entities regarding possible assistance. The council discussed the matter, noting the important work done by the YMCA in the city but also citing specific concerns with any possible contribution. The council agreed to discuss the matter further at a future work session meeting.
Waukee Public Library offers Curbside Pickup
Posted 7/9/2020
You can now schedule curbside pickups online. Once an item is available, you will receive a notification that your item is ready for pick-up. Go to https://curbside.capiratech.com/?code=waukiaus50263 to pick a time and day that works best for you. Curbside reservations can still be made by calling the library at 515-978-7944.
You can now schedule curbside pickups online. Once an item is available, you will receive a notification that your item is ready for pick-up. Go to https://curbside.capiratech.com/?code=waukiaus50263 to pick a time and day that works best for you. Curbside reservations can still be made by calling the library at 515-978-7944.
Conserve Water by Limiting or Staggering Irrigation/Watering
Posted 7/9/2020
On hot days, conserve water if possible by limiting or staggering irrigation/lawn watering. In addition to saving money on your utility bill by using less water, water conservation helps prevent water pollution in nearby lakes, rivers and local watersheds. Conserving water also prevents greenhouse gas emissions associated with treating and distributing water.
Citizens with irrigation systems should speak with service providers to have irrigation schedules set to avoid Mondays and to follow the odd-even watering recommendation to help keep water rates low during peak times. Properties with addresses ending in even numbers (5018) water on Sundays, Wednesdays and/or Fridays; addresses ending in odd numbers (5019) water on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Avoid watering between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.
On hot days, conserve water if possible by limiting or staggering irrigation/lawn watering. In addition to saving money on your utility bill by using less water, water conservation helps prevent water pollution in nearby lakes, rivers and local watersheds. Conserving water also prevents greenhouse gas emissions associated with treating and distributing water.
Citizens with irrigation systems should speak with service providers to have irrigation schedules set to avoid Mondays and to follow the odd-even watering recommendation to help keep water rates low during peak times. Properties with addresses ending in even numbers (5018) water on Sundays, Wednesdays and/or Fridays; addresses ending in odd numbers (5019) water on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Avoid watering between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Waukee Police Officer Kelli Cichoski Promoted to Sergeant
Posted 7/9/2020
Waukee Police Officer Kelli Cichoski was recently promoted to the rank of Sergeant. Sgt. Cichoski joined the Waukee Police Department in 2015 as a patrol officer. She most recently served as a detective and will now be the Sergeant supervising the department’s swing shift.
Sgt. Cichoski is originally from Davenport. She holds an associate’s degree in Liberal Arts from Kirkwood Community College and a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from St. Ambrose University. She is also a graduate of the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy. Prior to joining the Waukee PD she worked in Loss Prevention for Younkers.
Waukee Police Officer Kelli Cichoski was recently promoted to the rank of Sergeant. Sgt. Cichoski joined the Waukee Police Department in 2015 as a patrol officer. She most recently served as a detective and will now be the Sergeant supervising the department’s swing shift.
Sgt. Cichoski is originally from Davenport. She holds an associate’s degree in Liberal Arts from Kirkwood Community College and a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from St. Ambrose University. She is also a graduate of the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy. Prior to joining the Waukee PD she worked in Loss Prevention for Younkers.
2019 City of Waukee Report Card Tracks Progress and Opportunities
Posted 7/9/2020
The City of Waukee recently compiled data and fun facts in a new annual “Report Card.” See a snapshot of Waukee in categories such as the economy, development, public safety, housing and more. The information is certainly not exhaustive, but rather gives a quick glimpse into what’s been going on in Waukee from population growth to street and park projects. This document helps measure Waukee’s progress and show where the community is headed. View the full report at www.waukee.org.
The City of Waukee recently compiled data and fun facts in a new annual “Report Card.” See a snapshot of Waukee in categories such as the economy, development, public safety, housing and more. The information is certainly not exhaustive, but rather gives a quick glimpse into what’s been going on in Waukee from population growth to street and park projects. This document helps measure Waukee’s progress and show where the community is headed. View the full report at www.waukee.org.
Waukee Issued Record 1,531 Building Permits in FY 2020
Posted 7/9/2020
The City of Waukee’s Development Services Department issued a record number of building permits during Fiscal Year 2020. From July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020, the City issued 1,531 building permits with a total valuation of $214.8 million. The number of permits nearly doubles last fiscal year’s total of 898 permits.
The breakdown of FY 2020 permit totals included:
• 267 for single-family housing
• 449 for townhomes
• 4 for multi-family housing
• 19 for commercial projects
• 792 “Other” permits (additions, alterations, decks, etc.)
Commercial building permit numbers continue to be strong as well; permits totaled $28.4 million in FY 2020.
Later this year, developers are expected to reveal more details about a future entertainment district in Waukee’s Kettlestone Development.
The City of Waukee’s Development Services Department issued a record number of building permits during Fiscal Year 2020. From July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020, the City issued 1,531 building permits with a total valuation of $214.8 million. The number of permits nearly doubles last fiscal year’s total of 898 permits.
The breakdown of FY 2020 permit totals included:
• 267 for single-family housing
• 449 for townhomes
• 4 for multi-family housing
• 19 for commercial projects
• 792 “Other” permits (additions, alterations, decks, etc.)
Commercial building permit numbers continue to be strong as well; permits totaled $28.4 million in FY 2020.
Later this year, developers are expected to reveal more details about a future entertainment district in Waukee’s Kettlestone Development.
Attention Foster or Adoptive Parents
Posted 7/2/2020
Foster Faith Ministries has a fun event planned for Dallas County foster parents, adoptive parents and their children. You are invited to a family fun event at 32516 Meadow Road in Adel on July 18, at 3 p.m. Fishing, horseback riding games and BBQ will be provided. For more information and to RSVP, message @FosterFaithMinistries on Facebook or call or text Julie at 515-537-4912.
Foster Faith Ministries has a fun event planned for Dallas County foster parents, adoptive parents and their children. You are invited to a family fun event at 32516 Meadow Road in Adel on July 18, at 3 p.m. Fishing, horseback riding games and BBQ will be provided. For more information and to RSVP, message @FosterFaithMinistries on Facebook or call or text Julie at 515-537-4912.
Monthly Building Permit Report June 2020
Posted 7/2/2020
The City of Waukee issued 154 building permits in June 2020. There were 42 permits issued for single family homes, two for multi-family developments and 108 which fall in the “Other” category (monument signs, furnaces, etc.). The total taxable valuation in June equaled $24.97 million. See the full report at www.waukee.org.
The City of Waukee issued 154 building permits in June 2020. There were 42 permits issued for single family homes, two for multi-family developments and 108 which fall in the “Other” category (monument signs, furnaces, etc.). The total taxable valuation in June equaled $24.97 million. See the full report at www.waukee.org.
Funeral notices
Posted 7/2/2020
• Jeremy Rafalko, 40, of Waukee, passed away on June 28, 2020.
• Donna Rae (Coe) Green, 77, of Waukee, passed away on June 27, 2020. Visitation will be held Tuesday, July 7,5-7 p.m., and services will be held Wednesday, July 8, 10 a.m., both at Ernst Funeral Home, Waukee. Donna’s service will be lived streamed on Ernst Funeral & Cremation Services’ Facebook page Wednesday, July 8 and can be viewed then or anytime thereafter.
• Bonnie Jean Anderson, 77, of Waukee, passed away on June 24, 2020. A celebration of life gathering will be held Friday, July 3, 4-7 p.m. at Leigh White’s residence (220 Indian Ridge Drive, Waukee). Memorials may be directed in Bonnie’s memory to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
• Jeremy Rafalko, 40, of Waukee, passed away on June 28, 2020.
• Donna Rae (Coe) Green, 77, of Waukee, passed away on June 27, 2020. Visitation will be held Tuesday, July 7,5-7 p.m., and services will be held Wednesday, July 8, 10 a.m., both at Ernst Funeral Home, Waukee. Donna’s service will be lived streamed on Ernst Funeral & Cremation Services’ Facebook page Wednesday, July 8 and can be viewed then or anytime thereafter.
• Bonnie Jean Anderson, 77, of Waukee, passed away on June 24, 2020. A celebration of life gathering will be held Friday, July 3, 4-7 p.m. at Leigh White’s residence (220 Indian Ridge Drive, Waukee). Memorials may be directed in Bonnie’s memory to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Waukee City Hall Complex Reopens July 6
Posted 6/26/2020
Waukee City Hall, located at 230 W. Hickman Road and the adjacent Development Services (building permits, zoning, etc.) Annex, located at 204 W. Hickman Road behind City Hall will reopen to the public on Monday, July 6 at 8 a.m. The Waukee Public Safety Building lobby has been open and will remain open. The Waukee Public Works Building is anticipated to reopen soon. The Waukee Public Library will continue to operate via curbside and virtual platforms.
Most public meetings will reopen to the public to attend in person. Beginning July 6, all electronic meeting options will be discontinued with the exception of the Waukee Public Library Board of Trustees which will continue to be held via Zoom.
Individuals visiting City buildings or attending public meetings are encouraged to follow healthy hygiene practices (handwashing/sanitizer), do not come in if sick, practice physical distancing to lower the risk of disease spread and use a cloth face covering (with some exceptions) in the buildings when physical distancing cannot be maintained.
For people 65 years and older, those with underlying medical conditions or those who prefer to stay home during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the City offers many over-the-phone and online methods of doing business. Visit www.Waukee.org/COVID19 for more information.
Waukee City Hall, located at 230 W. Hickman Road and the adjacent Development Services (building permits, zoning, etc.) Annex, located at 204 W. Hickman Road behind City Hall will reopen to the public on Monday, July 6 at 8 a.m. The Waukee Public Safety Building lobby has been open and will remain open. The Waukee Public Works Building is anticipated to reopen soon. The Waukee Public Library will continue to operate via curbside and virtual platforms.
Most public meetings will reopen to the public to attend in person. Beginning July 6, all electronic meeting options will be discontinued with the exception of the Waukee Public Library Board of Trustees which will continue to be held via Zoom.
Individuals visiting City buildings or attending public meetings are encouraged to follow healthy hygiene practices (handwashing/sanitizer), do not come in if sick, practice physical distancing to lower the risk of disease spread and use a cloth face covering (with some exceptions) in the buildings when physical distancing cannot be maintained.
For people 65 years and older, those with underlying medical conditions or those who prefer to stay home during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the City offers many over-the-phone and online methods of doing business. Visit www.Waukee.org/COVID19 for more information.
Fox Creek Splash Pad Now Open
Posted 6/26/2020
Waukee’s Fox Creek Splash Pad is now open for the season. Unless circumstances change, it will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The splash pad is at Fox Creek Park, located at 522 N.E. Westgate Drive.
Fox Creek Splash Pad is one place where families can keep cool on hot summer days. On those hot days, it is possible that it will be a popular destination. Visitors may wish to stagger their attendance and/or shorten their stays to allow more people to enjoy the amenity without crowding. Use of the facility is at each person’s own risk. Lifeguards are not present, and surfaces are not routinely sanitized.
As a reminder, shoes must be worn on the Fox Creek Park playground. Also, splash pad water is not allowed anywhere on the playground.
Waukee’s Fox Creek Splash Pad is now open for the season. Unless circumstances change, it will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The splash pad is at Fox Creek Park, located at 522 N.E. Westgate Drive.
Fox Creek Splash Pad is one place where families can keep cool on hot summer days. On those hot days, it is possible that it will be a popular destination. Visitors may wish to stagger their attendance and/or shorten their stays to allow more people to enjoy the amenity without crowding. Use of the facility is at each person’s own risk. Lifeguards are not present, and surfaces are not routinely sanitized.
As a reminder, shoes must be worn on the Fox Creek Park playground. Also, splash pad water is not allowed anywhere on the playground.
Waukee Head Start
Posted 6/26/2020
Waukee Head Start is currently accepting applications for 2020-2021 school year. Children need to be ages 3 or 4 by Sept. 15, 2020.
Classes are held Monday - Friday 8:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Free breakfast, lunch and snack.
For additional information, contact Christina at 515-987-7428.
Waukee Head Start is currently accepting applications for 2020-2021 school year. Children need to be ages 3 or 4 by Sept. 15, 2020.
Classes are held Monday - Friday 8:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Free breakfast, lunch and snack.
For additional information, contact Christina at 515-987-7428.
Rural Recycling Program to Continue in Dallas County
Posted 6/26/2020
The Dallas County Supervisors and Metro Waste Authority have agreed to work towards a continued recycling program for Dallas County rural residents. The following sites will have single stream recycling container and a cardboard only recycling container.
• Perry at 14368 J Ave.
• Linden at the SE corner of North Street and Main Street
• Washington Township at the NW corner of P58 and F31
• Redfield at 1206 Omaha St.
The current recycling container in Woodward will be removed July 1, 2020, as the site was sold. Rural Woodward residents are asked to utilize the other available rural recycling containers until a new site is found.
For updates to the Dallas County Rural Resident Recycling Program, visit: https://bit.ly/2ZeXSt4
The Dallas County Supervisors and Metro Waste Authority have agreed to work towards a continued recycling program for Dallas County rural residents. The following sites will have single stream recycling container and a cardboard only recycling container.
• Perry at 14368 J Ave.
• Linden at the SE corner of North Street and Main Street
• Washington Township at the NW corner of P58 and F31
• Redfield at 1206 Omaha St.
The current recycling container in Woodward will be removed July 1, 2020, as the site was sold. Rural Woodward residents are asked to utilize the other available rural recycling containers until a new site is found.
For updates to the Dallas County Rural Resident Recycling Program, visit: https://bit.ly/2ZeXSt4
All City of Waukee Offices Closed July 3
Posted 6/26/2020
All City of Waukee offices will be closed Friday, July 3 in observance of the Independence Day holiday. This includes the Waukee Public Library. There will be no trash collection delays.
All City of Waukee offices will be closed Friday, July 3 in observance of the Independence Day holiday. This includes the Waukee Public Library. There will be no trash collection delays.
Funeral notices
Posted 6/26/2020
• Joyce Hudgens, 93, of Waukee, passed away on June 20, 2020. Her family will hold a private interment service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Immanuel United Methodist Church, 2900 49th St., Des Moines, IA 50310.
• Lacey Carolyn (Root) Grey (formerly Roe), 56, of Waukee, passed away Tuesday, June 23, 2020. A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 27 at Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home, Topeka, Kansas, following a private burial service. Visitation in Des Moines will be held was held Thursday, June 25 at Iles Dunn’s Chapel.
• Geraldine Humpal, 90, of Waukee, passed away on June 23, 2020.
• Joyce Hudgens, 93, of Waukee, passed away on June 20, 2020. Her family will hold a private interment service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Immanuel United Methodist Church, 2900 49th St., Des Moines, IA 50310.
• Lacey Carolyn (Root) Grey (formerly Roe), 56, of Waukee, passed away Tuesday, June 23, 2020. A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 27 at Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home, Topeka, Kansas, following a private burial service. Visitation in Des Moines will be held was held Thursday, June 25 at Iles Dunn’s Chapel.
• Geraldine Humpal, 90, of Waukee, passed away on June 23, 2020.
DHS Launches COVID Recovery Iowa
Posted 6/26/2020
The Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) is pleased to announce the State of Iowa has received nearly $1 million in funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to offer free crisis counseling to any Iowan who has been affected, in any way, by the COVID-19 public health emergency. The program, called COVID Recovery Iowa, is now available. Counseling will take place via virtual sessions, chat or phone call. People of all ages may join groups online to find support and learn new strategies to cope with the effects of the pandemic in a variety of creative ways.
Iowans can access services through the following options:
• Call 800-447-1985 to connect with a counselor specializing in rural issues and agriculture 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• Call the Iowa Warm Line, 844-775-9276; to connect with a peer counselor or request to get in touch with a COVID Recovery Iowa counselor
• Visit www.COVIDrecoveryiowa.org and complete a contact form and a counselor will get back to you
DHS has contracted with five providers throughout the state to provide counseling, virtual activities, referrals and help finding resources. COVID Recovery Iowa will announce additional programs in the coming weeks to help Iowans build coping skills and resilience.
The Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) is pleased to announce the State of Iowa has received nearly $1 million in funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to offer free crisis counseling to any Iowan who has been affected, in any way, by the COVID-19 public health emergency. The program, called COVID Recovery Iowa, is now available. Counseling will take place via virtual sessions, chat or phone call. People of all ages may join groups online to find support and learn new strategies to cope with the effects of the pandemic in a variety of creative ways.
Iowans can access services through the following options:
• Call 800-447-1985 to connect with a counselor specializing in rural issues and agriculture 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• Call the Iowa Warm Line, 844-775-9276; to connect with a peer counselor or request to get in touch with a COVID Recovery Iowa counselor
• Visit www.COVIDrecoveryiowa.org and complete a contact form and a counselor will get back to you
DHS has contracted with five providers throughout the state to provide counseling, virtual activities, referrals and help finding resources. COVID Recovery Iowa will announce additional programs in the coming weeks to help Iowans build coping skills and resilience.
FREE USA Flags to public in Virtual Parade at Charter Bank Drive-Ups
Posted 6/18/2020
In response to recent cancellations of community parades, Charter Bank invites the public to its drive-up windows to request and receive a USA flag — proudly made in USA — 8”x12” cotton flag on a stick, while supplies last.
Charter Bank annually participates with themed items tossed at June parades in Grimes and Johnston, plus July parades in Waukee and Ankeny, which have all been canceled, along with the Iowa State Fair.
Instead, parade fans may still receive a USA flag to help celebrate through the Fourth of July and beyond.
For more information, and to make appointments for customer parent/student consultations, call staff in Waukee at 987-1000.
In response to recent cancellations of community parades, Charter Bank invites the public to its drive-up windows to request and receive a USA flag — proudly made in USA — 8”x12” cotton flag on a stick, while supplies last.
Charter Bank annually participates with themed items tossed at June parades in Grimes and Johnston, plus July parades in Waukee and Ankeny, which have all been canceled, along with the Iowa State Fair.
Instead, parade fans may still receive a USA flag to help celebrate through the Fourth of July and beyond.
For more information, and to make appointments for customer parent/student consultations, call staff in Waukee at 987-1000.
Art in the Park
Posted 6/18/2020
Artists will create a variety of age-appropriate masterpieces to take home daily. Participants will also focus on a group public art piece to be installed at a City building. They may get messy, so artists should wear appropriate clothing. Kids ages 8-10 will be making an assortment of crafts, such as painting pots, tie dye and more, June 22-26. Register at www.waukee.org.
Artists will create a variety of age-appropriate masterpieces to take home daily. Participants will also focus on a group public art piece to be installed at a City building. They may get messy, so artists should wear appropriate clothing. Kids ages 8-10 will be making an assortment of crafts, such as painting pots, tie dye and more, June 22-26. Register at www.waukee.org.
Set Irrigation Schedules to Odd-Even Days
Posted 6/18/2020
Citizens with irrigation systems should speak with service providers to have irrigation schedules set to avoid Mondays and to follow the odd-even watering recommendation to help keep water rates low during peak times. Properties with addresses ending in even numbers (5018) water on Sundays, Wednesdays and/or Fridays; addresses ending in odd numbers (5019) water on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Please avoid watering between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Citizens with irrigation systems should speak with service providers to have irrigation schedules set to avoid Mondays and to follow the odd-even watering recommendation to help keep water rates low during peak times. Properties with addresses ending in even numbers (5018) water on Sundays, Wednesdays and/or Fridays; addresses ending in odd numbers (5019) water on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Please avoid watering between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Fireworks in Waukee
Posted 6/18/2020
The use of consumer fireworks is legal within the Waukee city limits only on July 3 and 4 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. Consumer fireworks cannot be discharged on public property, such as parks, parking lots, sidewalks, streets or the right-of-way (including the grass between sidewalks and the curb).
The use of consumer fireworks is legal within the Waukee city limits only on July 3 and 4 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. Consumer fireworks cannot be discharged on public property, such as parks, parking lots, sidewalks, streets or the right-of-way (including the grass between sidewalks and the curb).
Parks & Rec Programs to Resume
Posted 6/11/2020
While many late spring/early summer programs were canceled, several Parks and Recreation Department programs are now resuming. City staff and partnered program leaders will be taking additional health precautions and will be increasing sanitation efforts. For questions about specific protocols or specific programs, call 515-978-0007 or email Danae Edwards at dedwards@waukee.org.
Adult Programs
• Yoga in the Park will resume at Windfield Park on Saturday, June 27 at 8 p.m. The cost is $2 paid in cash at the park.
• Dinner Delights meal prep parties will start back up Sunday, June 21 from 2-4 p.m.
• Adult sports leagues are full for 2020, however spots are available in Lifetime Tennis Camps.
• The Fall in Love with Iowa Falls Day Trip is still scheduled for Sept. 30.
Youth Programs
Most youth sports leagues are full for 2020. Here is a list of youth programs resuming this summer which currently have spots available:
• Art in the Park Camp
• All-Star Sports Camp
• Camp Brainiac
• Countdown to Kindergarten
• (Fall) Girls Recreational Softball League
• Fall Softball Camp (TBD)
• Little Kickers Soccer
• Parent and Child Blastball
• Red Cross Babysitting Training
• Sunflower Fine Art
• Super Snackers Camp
• Waukee High School Cheer Camp (dates TBD)
Visit www.waukee.org for more information.
Adult Programs
• Yoga in the Park will resume at Windfield Park on Saturday, June 27 at 8 p.m. The cost is $2 paid in cash at the park.
• Dinner Delights meal prep parties will start back up Sunday, June 21 from 2-4 p.m.
• Adult sports leagues are full for 2020, however spots are available in Lifetime Tennis Camps.
• The Fall in Love with Iowa Falls Day Trip is still scheduled for Sept. 30.
Youth Programs
Most youth sports leagues are full for 2020. Here is a list of youth programs resuming this summer which currently have spots available:
• Art in the Park Camp
• All-Star Sports Camp
• Camp Brainiac
• Countdown to Kindergarten
• (Fall) Girls Recreational Softball League
• Fall Softball Camp (TBD)
• Little Kickers Soccer
• Parent and Child Blastball
• Red Cross Babysitting Training
• Sunflower Fine Art
• Super Snackers Camp
• Waukee High School Cheer Camp (dates TBD)
Visit www.waukee.org for more information.
Waukee’s Independence Day Celebration Modified
Posted 6/11/2020
Despite the need to cancel much of Waukee’s Independence Day Celebration due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Waukee Parks and Recreation Department will still offer the popular fireworks show and a new skydiver demonstration on Saturday, July 4.
The carnival, parade, live music, food vendors and Movie in the Park will not go on as planned for 2020. However, the City is still able to offer an exciting appearance from the Des Moines Skydivers. Professional skydivers will jump from an airplane and land in Centennial Park at 8 p.m. People can come for the skydivers and stay for the fireworks. The popular fireworks display will be held at Centennial Park shortly after dusk or approximately 9:30 p.m.
Social distancing signs will be present within Centennial Park during both activities. Visitors are encouraged to stay in their vehicles or to find a spot to sit within the park that is at least six feet from any other group.
Visit www.Waukee.org/july for more information.
The carnival, parade, live music, food vendors and Movie in the Park will not go on as planned for 2020. However, the City is still able to offer an exciting appearance from the Des Moines Skydivers. Professional skydivers will jump from an airplane and land in Centennial Park at 8 p.m. People can come for the skydivers and stay for the fireworks. The popular fireworks display will be held at Centennial Park shortly after dusk or approximately 9:30 p.m.
Social distancing signs will be present within Centennial Park during both activities. Visitors are encouraged to stay in their vehicles or to find a spot to sit within the park that is at least six feet from any other group.
Visit www.Waukee.org/july for more information.
Test Iowa Site Now Open in Waukee
Posted 6/11/2020
Test Iowa has expanded access to COVID-19 testing with new sites opening, including one in Waukee at South Middle School, 2350 S.E. LA Grant Parkway.
The site will be open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. The site is anticipated to be operational for several weeks.
Individuals who wish to get tested at any clinic site or drive-thru test site must first complete the online assessment at testiowa.com. They will then be directed to call the clinic to schedule an appointment.
Test Iowa is a statewide initiative to expand COVID-19 testing. Locations and hours of operation for all test sites can be found at testiowa.com or coronavirus.iowa.gov.
The site will be open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. The site is anticipated to be operational for several weeks.
Individuals who wish to get tested at any clinic site or drive-thru test site must first complete the online assessment at testiowa.com. They will then be directed to call the clinic to schedule an appointment.
Test Iowa is a statewide initiative to expand COVID-19 testing. Locations and hours of operation for all test sites can be found at testiowa.com or coronavirus.iowa.gov.
Dallas County Health Hosts Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program
Posted 6/11/2020
Dallas County Health Navigation team will be hosting drive through distributions sites for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program throughout June. Residents age 60+ with single income less than $23,606 or married income less than $31,894 may be eligible to receive $30 in checks to use at the local farmers market. Interested individuals can call 515-993-3750 to complete an application over the phone and schedule a time/location to pick up the checks. Volunteers will be needed to help direct traffic through the distribution sites. Anyone interested in volunteering can sign up at https://bit.ly/30dvklt.
Registration Open for Fall Girls Softball
Posted 6/11/2020
Registration for the Waukee Parks & Recreation Department’s Fall Girls Softball League is now open. The season will run from mid-August through early October. Online registration ends July 24. Register participants for the grade they will be in for the 2020-21 school year. The cost is $64 for grades K-3rd; the cost is $84 for grades 4th-8th. Grades K-1st will play with both a tee and coach pitching. Players are required to provide their own helmets and ball gloves.
Register now under the “Youth Sports” category, https://waukee.activityreg.com/ClientPage_t2.wcs.
Volunteer coaches are also needed. Email Jacob Perkins if interested, jperkins@waukee.org.
Register now under the “Youth Sports” category, https://waukee.activityreg.com/ClientPage_t2.wcs.
Volunteer coaches are also needed. Email Jacob Perkins if interested, jperkins@waukee.org.
NEED A WEBSITE FOR YOUR BUSINESS?
Posted 6/11/2020
Big Green Umbrella Web Design can help! Now you can entrust your website to the same folks you trust for this publication, the Living magazines, CITYVIEW and many other events and offerings. Contact us for a free demo and a sample design or redesign of your website. See details and examples of our work at www.biggreenwebdesign.com.
Waukee School District news
Posted 6/4/2020
At the Waukee School District board meeting on May 11, members shared:
• Recognition of Jazz program (3rd Year in a Row) in Downbeat Magazine
• Silver Cord recipient, Senior Elena Sierra, was recognized as one of Iowa’s top seniors.
• Approximately 1,000 yard signs were distributed in Waukee with more to come
• More than 56,600 District grab and go meals were served to date.
• Waukee Live 2020 virtual event showcasing Waukee schools and musical talent on May 12.
• Dr. Buck shared a Virtual Groundbreaking for Sugar Creek Elementary on May 14.
• Recognition of Jazz program (3rd Year in a Row) in Downbeat Magazine
• Silver Cord recipient, Senior Elena Sierra, was recognized as one of Iowa’s top seniors.
• Approximately 1,000 yard signs were distributed in Waukee with more to come
• More than 56,600 District grab and go meals were served to date.
• Waukee Live 2020 virtual event showcasing Waukee schools and musical talent on May 12.
• Dr. Buck shared a Virtual Groundbreaking for Sugar Creek Elementary on May 14.
Waukee Leadership Institute graduates
Posted 6/4/2020
The Waukee Leadership Institute congratulates its class of 2020 for their dedication and completion of the 9-month leadership development program: Shelia Backer of Farmers Mutual Hail Insurance Company; Rachel Bruns of the City of Waukee; Lindsay Chase of Holmes Murphy; Ty Flood of Holmes Murphy; Juan Garcia of Iowa Literacy Council; Travis Gaule of Edward Jones; Brent Hansmeier of Midwest Heritage Bank; Larry Hingst of Gilcrest Jewett; Sarah Kautz of the Waukee Community Schools; Holly Lewis of Stivers Ford/Mercury; Todd Liston of Gilcrest Jewett; Alex Rich of Trilix; Steve Rogers of Vision Bank; Ashley Rottinghaus of West Bank; April Samp of Luminary Creative, WOI-DT and KWQT TV6 News; Don Stabenow of Lifestyle Plumbing; Gretchen Stanger of the Waukee YMCA; Debra Straw of Principal Financial Group; and Gary Wiedenfeld, Retired from Veritiv.
If you would like to participate in the Waukee Leadership Institute Class of 2021, register online: www.waukeeleadership.org. Class space is limited. Applicants will be notified by Aug. 1, 2020, of their acceptance into the program.
If you would like to participate in the Waukee Leadership Institute Class of 2021, register online: www.waukeeleadership.org. Class space is limited. Applicants will be notified by Aug. 1, 2020, of their acceptance into the program.
Reggie Bell Named Waukee’s 2019 Citizen of the Year
Posted 6/4/2020
Waukee Mayor Courtney Clarke has named community advocate and military veteran Reggie Bell Waukee’s 2019 Citizen of the Year. The Citizen of the Year honor is given each year to an exemplary resident who represents the true spirit of community service.
Bell spent much of his formative years in Kansas City public housing. He then served in the U.S. Army for 22 years. Bell moved to Waukee in 2007. Many people know Bell from his volunteer and fundraising work with the Waukee American Legion, as a greeter and advocate for the Waukee Family YMCA, or as the Area Coordinator for the Mu Omicron Chapter of Omega Psi Phi, a predominantly African-American fraternity focused on “Lifting as we Climb”. His dedication to community service goes beyond Waukee as well.
Bell spent much of his formative years in Kansas City public housing. He then served in the U.S. Army for 22 years. Bell moved to Waukee in 2007. Many people know Bell from his volunteer and fundraising work with the Waukee American Legion, as a greeter and advocate for the Waukee Family YMCA, or as the Area Coordinator for the Mu Omicron Chapter of Omega Psi Phi, a predominantly African-American fraternity focused on “Lifting as we Climb”. His dedication to community service goes beyond Waukee as well.
Funeral notices
Posted 6/4/2020
• Lois L. Wolterman, 79, of Waukee, passed away peacefully at Adel Acres after a brief battle with cancer and other health issues. Visitation was held June 1 at Brooks Funeral Care in Clive. A private funeral was held at St. Boniface in Waukee on June 2, and an urn burial will be held in Danbury at a date to be determined.
• Lloyd “Babe” Royer, 78, of Waukee, passed away on May 27, 2020. Visitation was held June 1 at Ernst Funeral Home. Private services and interment followed. To view Lloyd’s full obituary and to leave condolences for the family, visit www.ErnstFuneralHome.com.
• Lloyd “Babe” Royer, 78, of Waukee, passed away on May 27, 2020. Visitation was held June 1 at Ernst Funeral Home. Private services and interment followed. To view Lloyd’s full obituary and to leave condolences for the family, visit www.ErnstFuneralHome.com.
Apply to serve on the Library Board of Trustees
Posted 6/4/2020
The Waukee Public Library is governed by a seven-member Library Board of Trustees. Three terms are ending June 30. Apply to serve a three-year term which begins July 1. The board meets the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. and helps shape the future of the library. Apply by June 12, 2020 at www.waukee.org.
City of Waukee to begin phased reopening
Posted 6/4/2020
The City of Waukee is implementing a phased reopening plan, opening some public facilities on June 1. The City closed most of its facilities to the public on March 16 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The following changes will be in effect beginning June 1, 2020, provided social distancing requirements and other CDC guidelines are followed. All facilities and amenities are for use at your own risk.
• All Waukee playgrounds will reopen. Residents can use them at their own risk. Playground equipment is not sanitized. Park restrooms will reopen. Ball fields will reopen for practices only. ugar Creek Municipal Golf Course is open with modifications. Shelter houses will remain closed through June 14. Most camps and programs are canceled through June 14. Fox Creek Splash Pad will remain closed pursuant to Gov. Reynolds’ proclamation.
• The Waukee Public Library building remains closed to the public. Curbside pickup service will be by appointment only. Returns will be accepted in bins located near the front library entrance. The Summer Reading Program and various other activities and programs are now offered online for the foreseeable future.
• The Waukee Public Safety Building lobby is open Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The following changes will be in effect beginning June 1, 2020, provided social distancing requirements and other CDC guidelines are followed. All facilities and amenities are for use at your own risk.
• All Waukee playgrounds will reopen. Residents can use them at their own risk. Playground equipment is not sanitized. Park restrooms will reopen. Ball fields will reopen for practices only. ugar Creek Municipal Golf Course is open with modifications. Shelter houses will remain closed through June 14. Most camps and programs are canceled through June 14. Fox Creek Splash Pad will remain closed pursuant to Gov. Reynolds’ proclamation.
• The Waukee Public Library building remains closed to the public. Curbside pickup service will be by appointment only. Returns will be accepted in bins located near the front library entrance. The Summer Reading Program and various other activities and programs are now offered online for the foreseeable future.
• The Waukee Public Safety Building lobby is open Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Take a Summer Reading Adventure
Posted 5/28/2020
“Imagine Your Story” with the Waukee Public Library this summer. All ages of children, teens and adults can read or listen to books and earn prizes from June 1-July 31 with the annual Summer Reading Program. It works a bit differently this year due to COVID-19, but you can still read, dream and imagine as you log reading, attend online events and win prizes. Participants can register now online at waukeelibrary.beanstack.org. Log reading activity at that same link or via the Beanstack Tracker app.
Waukee Named Fastest-Growing Large (20,000+) City in Iowa
Posted 5/28/2020
The State Data Center at the State Library of Iowa has released estimates for populations of Iowa cities in 2019 from the U.S. Census Bureau. These estimates will be the last look at Iowa’s population totals before the release of the 2020 Census. Based on recent U.S. Census Bureau estimates, out of all Iowa cities with populations larger than 20,000, Waukee has grown the fastest since 2010.
The fastest growing cities in Iowa since 2010 with a population greater than 20,000 include:
• Waukee – 24,089 population, 74.4 percent growth
• Ankeny – 67,355 population, 47.7 percent growth
• Johnston – 22,582 population, 30.7 percent growth
• West Des Moines – 67,899 population, 19.7 percent growth
The City of Waukee also saw the third highest numeric increase in population since 2010, having welcomed 10,280 new residents to the community within that timeframe.
As the City continues to invest in infrastructure and amenities, and the Waukee Community School District continues to attract people with its quality education and programs, growth in and around Waukee is expected to continue. City officials project that Waukee’s population could reach 35,000 by the year 2030.
The fastest growing cities in Iowa since 2010 with a population greater than 20,000 include:
• Waukee – 24,089 population, 74.4 percent growth
• Ankeny – 67,355 population, 47.7 percent growth
• Johnston – 22,582 population, 30.7 percent growth
• West Des Moines – 67,899 population, 19.7 percent growth
The City of Waukee also saw the third highest numeric increase in population since 2010, having welcomed 10,280 new residents to the community within that timeframe.
As the City continues to invest in infrastructure and amenities, and the Waukee Community School District continues to attract people with its quality education and programs, growth in and around Waukee is expected to continue. City officials project that Waukee’s population could reach 35,000 by the year 2030.
Waukee Goodwill is closing
Posted 5/28/2020
Due to the negative impact of COVID-19, Goodwill of Central Iowa has been forced to close some of its locations: Grinnell, Waukee, South Des Moines and Oskaloosa.
Funeral notices
Posted 5/28/2020
• Bruce W. Meyer, 73, of Waukee, passed away on May 13, 2020. Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway is in charge of services.
• Mary Catherine McCleary, 79, of Waukee, passed away May 7, 2020. A private family service will be held at McLaren’s Funeral Chapel with a memorial service at a later date.
• Richard “Dick” Doughan, 81, of Waukee, passed away on May 17, 2020. A private services was held May 22. To view Dick’s full obituary and leave condolences to the family, please visit www.ErnstFuneralHome.com.
• Lynas (Lyn “Boomer”) Rude, 77, passed away on May 18, 2020. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the family is planning a celebration of life once the restrictions are lifted. In lieu of flowers, gifts, or cards, please donate to the Iowa Donor Network or your local hospice in honor of Boomer.
• Steven Allan Dittrich, 68, of Waukee, passed away on Sunday, May 17, 2020. Private grave side services will be held at Davenport Memorial Park at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, Urbandale.
• Donald Roger Rasmussen, 85, of Waukee, passed away Friday, May 22, 2020. Funeral services were held at Lutheran Church of Hope with burial at Resthaven Cemetery. The family requests memorials be sent to Arbor Springs in West Des Moines, Iowa in memory of Don Rasmussen.
• Helen Lorraine Lockwood, 92, of Altoona, formerly Waukee, passed away on Saturday, May 23, 2020. A visitation was held at Ernst Funeral Home. A committal service was held at Waukee Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to Waukee Immanuel Lutheran Church or Waukee Public Library. Visit www.ernstfuneralhome.com to send flowers or leave condolences to the family.
• Robert “Bob” D. Wilson, 67, of Waukee, passed away on May 23, 2020. Ernst Funeral & Cremation Services was in charge of services.
• Mary Catherine McCleary, 79, of Waukee, passed away May 7, 2020. A private family service will be held at McLaren’s Funeral Chapel with a memorial service at a later date.
• Richard “Dick” Doughan, 81, of Waukee, passed away on May 17, 2020. A private services was held May 22. To view Dick’s full obituary and leave condolences to the family, please visit www.ErnstFuneralHome.com.
• Lynas (Lyn “Boomer”) Rude, 77, passed away on May 18, 2020. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the family is planning a celebration of life once the restrictions are lifted. In lieu of flowers, gifts, or cards, please donate to the Iowa Donor Network or your local hospice in honor of Boomer.
• Steven Allan Dittrich, 68, of Waukee, passed away on Sunday, May 17, 2020. Private grave side services will be held at Davenport Memorial Park at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, Urbandale.
• Donald Roger Rasmussen, 85, of Waukee, passed away Friday, May 22, 2020. Funeral services were held at Lutheran Church of Hope with burial at Resthaven Cemetery. The family requests memorials be sent to Arbor Springs in West Des Moines, Iowa in memory of Don Rasmussen.
• Helen Lorraine Lockwood, 92, of Altoona, formerly Waukee, passed away on Saturday, May 23, 2020. A visitation was held at Ernst Funeral Home. A committal service was held at Waukee Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to Waukee Immanuel Lutheran Church or Waukee Public Library. Visit www.ernstfuneralhome.com to send flowers or leave condolences to the family.
• Robert “Bob” D. Wilson, 67, of Waukee, passed away on May 23, 2020. Ernst Funeral & Cremation Services was in charge of services.
Waukee Farmers Market
Posted 5/28/2020
The Waukee Farmers Market will be opening Wednesday, June 17 and will be held every Wednesday, 4-7 p.m.
Due to COVID-19, the market will look a little different. Only vendors selling farm products, baked goods, and food vendors will be allowed. There will be no entertainment, crafts or art available to purchase. Vendors will be required to apply to the market before attending.
Contact LuCinda Beltman at lucinda@westview.org for more information.
Due to COVID-19, the market will look a little different. Only vendors selling farm products, baked goods, and food vendors will be allowed. There will be no entertainment, crafts or art available to purchase. Vendors will be required to apply to the market before attending.
Contact LuCinda Beltman at lucinda@westview.org for more information.
Waukee Chamber 2020 Annual Golf Outing
Posted 5/28/2020
Join the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, June 18 for a round of golf at Beaver Creek Golf Course. Enjoy a Western themed event and wear your protective mask in style. Guests will participate in a tee timed event from 10 a.m. to noon. A boxed lunch will be provided by Waukee Hy-Vee.
Team registration and sponsorship information is available at www.waukeechamber.com.
Team registration and sponsorship information is available at www.waukeechamber.com.
Majority of Summer Iowa Games Cancelled for 2020
Posted 5/26/2020
Iowa Games officials announced today that the bulk of sports for the 2020 Summer Iowa Games presented by Grinnell Mutual in Ames and surrounding communities have been cancelled due to COVID-19.
Iowa Games officials announced today that the bulk of sports for the 2020 Summer Iowa Games presented by Grinnell Mutual in Ames and surrounding communities have been cancelled due to COVID-19.
Due to the group gathering nature of this large-scale sports festival and social-distancing guidelines currently in place, the majority of the Summer Iowa Games have been cancelled for 2020. Athletes and participants are encouraged to follow the Iowa Games on social media, as virtual events may be offered this summer for some of the cancelled sports.
“The Summer Iowa Games takes months of coordination with a tremendous amount of effort from our staff, Iowa State University, and the Ames community,” commented Chuck Long, Iowa Games CEO/Executive Director. “We could not justify holding the Games while putting our athletes, coaches, volunteers and staff at risk.”
Due to the nature of some events, a small number of sports may continue to be held as scheduled. These sports/events include: 3D Archery, July 25-26; Big Fish Classic, August 09; Black Powder (Pistol), July 31-Aug 2; Black Powder (Rifle), Aug 7-9; Bocce, July 11; Bowling Districts, June 27-28 & July 11/12 (reschedule from June); Bowling Finals, Aug 8 (rescheduled from July 18); Bowling High School Team, Aug 7 (rescheduled from July 17); Cycling Road Race, August 02; Cycling Time Trial, August 01; Disc Golf, July 18-19; FootGolf, July 11; Golf - 4 Person Best Shot, July 19; Golf - Juniors/Pee Wee (IPGA), July 16; Golf - Juniors/Pee Wee (non-IPGA), July 15; Hoover-Ball, August 08; Light Saber, July 18-19; Sand Volleyball (Cedar Rapids), Aug 15 (rescheduled from June 13); Sand Volleyball (Des Moines), July 18; Trapshooting, August 15; Triathlon/Duathlon, July 12; Water Skiing, July 18-19; Whitewater Slalom, June 20.
The Iowa Games will continue to monitor the situation, and any changes to the above sports will be announced as needed.
For more information regarding this cancellation, please visit www.iowagames.org or email info@iowagames.org, as our staff is continuing to work remotely.
PulsePoint Respond App Deployed in Waukee
Posted 5/21/2020
Seconds matter when someone is in cardiac arrest. First responders in the cities of Waukee, West Des Moines, Clive, Norwalk and Urbandale are implementing technology in the battle to save those in cardiac arrest. PulsePoint, an app available to users who can indicate that they are trained in CPR and willing to assist in an emergency, will notify users if someone nearby in a public place is having a cardiac emergency and may require CPR.
There is also a companion app; PulsePoint AED allows those who are responsible for an AED in their building to enter the AED and specific directions including a picture of the location into the app.
There is no cost associated with using any aspect of the PulsePoint apps. Both PulsePoint Respond and PulsePoint AED apps are available to be downloaded on your device from the Apple and Play Stores and online.
Seconds matter when someone is in cardiac arrest. First responders in the cities of Waukee, West Des Moines, Clive, Norwalk and Urbandale are implementing technology in the battle to save those in cardiac arrest. PulsePoint, an app available to users who can indicate that they are trained in CPR and willing to assist in an emergency, will notify users if someone nearby in a public place is having a cardiac emergency and may require CPR.
There is also a companion app; PulsePoint AED allows those who are responsible for an AED in their building to enter the AED and specific directions including a picture of the location into the app.
There is no cost associated with using any aspect of the PulsePoint apps. Both PulsePoint Respond and PulsePoint AED apps are available to be downloaded on your device from the Apple and Play Stores and online.
Detour Planned for Hickman Bike Trail
Posted 5/21/2020
As part of the construction of Waukee Crossing including N.W. Second Street, there will be a temporary closure and detour to the bike trail on the north side of Hickman Road. The detour will last until approximately June 13, depending upon weather.
As part of the construction of Waukee Crossing including N.W. Second Street, there will be a temporary closure and detour to the bike trail on the north side of Hickman Road. The detour will last until approximately June 13, depending upon weather.
Memorial Day Flag Etiquette
Posted 5/21/2020
On Memorial Day, in traditional observance, the flag of the United States is raised briskly to the top of the staff at sunrise and then solemnly lowered to the half-staff position, where it remains only until noon. It is then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day.
The half-staff position remembers the more than one million men and women who gave their lives in service of their country. At noon, their memory is raised by the living, who resolve not to let their sacrifice be in vain, but to rise up in their stead and continue the fight for liberty and justice for all.
On Memorial Day, in traditional observance, the flag of the United States is raised briskly to the top of the staff at sunrise and then solemnly lowered to the half-staff position, where it remains only until noon. It is then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day.
The half-staff position remembers the more than one million men and women who gave their lives in service of their country. At noon, their memory is raised by the living, who resolve not to let their sacrifice be in vain, but to rise up in their stead and continue the fight for liberty and justice for all.
On a mission to server, Virtual VBS 2020
Posted 5/21/2020
WestwindKIDS invites all 4-year-olds through upcoming 5th-graders to join as secret service agents on a mission to serve, to work together to find the clues that lead us to the One that always chooses to serve others for their good. WestwindKIDS VBS 2020 is going virtual for the first time ever.
They have planned a flexible 4-day at-home VBS to fit your families’ needs from June 14-17, at 6:30 p.m.
Each night, they will begin virtually in Mission Control, the large group time, as they sing with our Motion Team, learn the VBS memory verse, watch fun skits and get to know Jesus. Then you choose which areas of VBS will fit for your family to participate in together.
• Small group on Zoom with a small group and leader
• Small group with a parent or adult at home
• Crafts and service project
Registration costs are based on a per-activity basis. Each child’s registration includes a one-of-a-kind VBS T-shirt, Secret Service Agent gear and all supplies you will need for each child’s activities.
Scholarships are available. Email tara@westwindchurch.org for more information. Contact them for more details: Westwind Church, 185 N.E. Dartmoor Drive, Waukee, 515-987-2040, westwindchurch.org.
WestwindKIDS invites all 4-year-olds through upcoming 5th-graders to join as secret service agents on a mission to serve, to work together to find the clues that lead us to the One that always chooses to serve others for their good. WestwindKIDS VBS 2020 is going virtual for the first time ever.
They have planned a flexible 4-day at-home VBS to fit your families’ needs from June 14-17, at 6:30 p.m.
Each night, they will begin virtually in Mission Control, the large group time, as they sing with our Motion Team, learn the VBS memory verse, watch fun skits and get to know Jesus. Then you choose which areas of VBS will fit for your family to participate in together.
• Small group on Zoom with a small group and leader
• Small group with a parent or adult at home
• Crafts and service project
Registration costs are based on a per-activity basis. Each child’s registration includes a one-of-a-kind VBS T-shirt, Secret Service Agent gear and all supplies you will need for each child’s activities.
Scholarships are available. Email tara@westwindchurch.org for more information. Contact them for more details: Westwind Church, 185 N.E. Dartmoor Drive, Waukee, 515-987-2040, westwindchurch.org.
Library to Offer Curbside Pickup Beginning June 1
Posted 5/21/2020
Starting June 1, the Waukee Public Library will offer scheduled curbside pickup of library books and materials by appointment and will start accepting returns on a limited basis. All due dates have been extended to July 1. Staff will be in the building filling requests and delivering to patrons at scheduled times from the library’s front entrance. Continue to watch the online programming and use the online resources. Sign up for the Summer Reading Program, which the library staff has revised to be online and from home this year.
Starting June 1, the Waukee Public Library will offer scheduled curbside pickup of library books and materials by appointment and will start accepting returns on a limited basis. All due dates have been extended to July 1. Staff will be in the building filling requests and delivering to patrons at scheduled times from the library’s front entrance. Continue to watch the online programming and use the online resources. Sign up for the Summer Reading Program, which the library staff has revised to be online and from home this year.
Trash Delayed and Offices Closed Memorial Day
Posted 5/14/2020
All City of Waukee offices including the Waukee Public Library will be closed on Monday, May 25 due to the Memorial Day holiday. Garbage, recycling and yard waste collection will be delayed by one day all week, running Tuesday through Saturday.
All City of Waukee offices including the Waukee Public Library will be closed on Monday, May 25 due to the Memorial Day holiday. Garbage, recycling and yard waste collection will be delayed by one day all week, running Tuesday through Saturday.
Community mobile food pantry to open May 20-21
Posted 5/14/2020
A community mobile food pantry will be open Wednesday, May 20 at the Dallas County Hopsital north parking lot beginning at 5 p.m. and Thursday, May 21 at Raccoon Valley Bank in Adel beginning at 5 p.m. This is sponsored by Raccoon Valley Bank, Dallas County Hospital, Adel Partners Chamber of Commerce, Dallas County EMS, Adel and Perry Fareways, Hy-Line, Hy-Vee, Minburn Communications, Osmundson, Progressive Foundry, Tyson, Van Wall Equipment and Dallas County Hospital Foundation.
A community mobile food pantry will be open Wednesday, May 20 at the Dallas County Hopsital north parking lot beginning at 5 p.m. and Thursday, May 21 at Raccoon Valley Bank in Adel beginning at 5 p.m. This is sponsored by Raccoon Valley Bank, Dallas County Hospital, Adel Partners Chamber of Commerce, Dallas County EMS, Adel and Perry Fareways, Hy-Line, Hy-Vee, Minburn Communications, Osmundson, Progressive Foundry, Tyson, Van Wall Equipment and Dallas County Hospital Foundation.
Apply to Serve on the Library Board of Trustees
Posted 5/14/2020
The Waukee Public Library is governed by a seven-member Library Board of Trustees. Three terms are ending June 30. Are you interested in helping to review all information related to the operations of the Waukee Public Library? Apply to serve a three-year term, which begins July 1, 2020. The board meets the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. and helps shape the future of the library. Meetings are currently being held via Zoom. Apply by May 29, 2020, at www.waukee.org.
The Waukee Public Library is governed by a seven-member Library Board of Trustees. Three terms are ending June 30. Are you interested in helping to review all information related to the operations of the Waukee Public Library? Apply to serve a three-year term, which begins July 1, 2020. The board meets the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. and helps shape the future of the library. Meetings are currently being held via Zoom. Apply by May 29, 2020, at www.waukee.org.
Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course Reopening May 15
Posted 5/14/2020
Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course will reopen on Friday, May 15 at 7 a.m. While the driving range and golf course will be open, many modifications are being made to encourage social distancing and to allow staff time for extra cleaning measures. Golfers can call the clubhouse at 515-987-5247 to schedule a tee time. Call-ahead tee time scheduling and payment is strongly encouraged. The health and safety of golfers and staff is of the utmost importance.
Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course will reopen on Friday, May 15 at 7 a.m. While the driving range and golf course will be open, many modifications are being made to encourage social distancing and to allow staff time for extra cleaning measures. Golfers can call the clubhouse at 515-987-5247 to schedule a tee time. Call-ahead tee time scheduling and payment is strongly encouraged. The health and safety of golfers and staff is of the utmost importance.
Mystery Art Challenge
Posted 5/14/2020
Inspired by the Food Network show “Chopped,” the Waukee Parks & Recreation Department is challenging City staff and Waukee residents to open “mystery baskets” of arts and craft supplies and see what they can make.
On Mondays through May 11, the department will announce the three “ingredients” people must use in the mystery art projects. Participants can use the following staples from their homes as well: markers, crayons, glue, tape, scissors and cardstock/paper.
Post photos and/or videos to Facebook and tag Waukee Parks & Recreation, post to other social media using #waukeevirtualrec and #waukeemysteryart, or email photos/videos to the department to dedwards@waukee.org. Participants will be drawn at random for fun prizes. See more on www.waukee.org.
Week 5 Challenge: cardboard, paper clips and skewers.
Inspired by the Food Network show “Chopped,” the Waukee Parks & Recreation Department is challenging City staff and Waukee residents to open “mystery baskets” of arts and craft supplies and see what they can make.
On Mondays through May 11, the department will announce the three “ingredients” people must use in the mystery art projects. Participants can use the following staples from their homes as well: markers, crayons, glue, tape, scissors and cardstock/paper.
Post photos and/or videos to Facebook and tag Waukee Parks & Recreation, post to other social media using #waukeevirtualrec and #waukeemysteryart, or email photos/videos to the department to dedwards@waukee.org. Participants will be drawn at random for fun prizes. See more on www.waukee.org.
Week 5 Challenge: cardboard, paper clips and skewers.
Camp Dodge cancels summer concert series, other events
Posted 5/14/2020
Upcoming events and summer activities held by the Iowa National Guard are canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic. The guard announced the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum is canceling the annual Memorial Day breakfast along with the summer concert series held at Camp Dodge.
The Iowa Gold Star Military Museums is canceling its annual Memorial Day breakfast and recognition event, and the museum itself remains closed to visitors in compliance with the state’s COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.
The guard’s No Man’s Land Trench Run is also cancelled this year along with the Iowa National Guard Alumni Day event held in August. Alumni Day is rescheduled for Aug. 7, 2021.
Upcoming events and summer activities held by the Iowa National Guard are canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic. The guard announced the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum is canceling the annual Memorial Day breakfast along with the summer concert series held at Camp Dodge.
The Iowa Gold Star Military Museums is canceling its annual Memorial Day breakfast and recognition event, and the museum itself remains closed to visitors in compliance with the state’s COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.
The guard’s No Man’s Land Trench Run is also cancelled this year along with the Iowa National Guard Alumni Day event held in August. Alumni Day is rescheduled for Aug. 7, 2021.
Dispose of Large Items on Curb or in Bulk at Grimes Site
Posted 5/7/2020
Due to COVID-19, the annual Spring Clean-Up Week was canceled for 2020. However, City of Waukee/ASI garbage customers can place one large/bulky item on the curb each week for collection. Hazardous waste, appliance and tire drop-off sites will likely be rescheduled later this year.
If you need to dispose of several large or extra items immediately, Metro Waste Authority is opening its Northwest Drop-off site in Grimes for residential trash on Saturdays this month. Learn more on the Metro Waste Authority website.
Due to COVID-19, the annual Spring Clean-Up Week was canceled for 2020. However, City of Waukee/ASI garbage customers can place one large/bulky item on the curb each week for collection. Hazardous waste, appliance and tire drop-off sites will likely be rescheduled later this year.
If you need to dispose of several large or extra items immediately, Metro Waste Authority is opening its Northwest Drop-off site in Grimes for residential trash on Saturdays this month. Learn more on the Metro Waste Authority website.
Library Launches “Letters with Librarians”
Posted 5/7/2020
This May, make a librarian your pen pal. Get writing practice and receive some happy mail during this time of community distancing. Kids are invited to mail a handwritten letter or drawing to the Waukee Public Library, and the librarians will write them back. Write about a book you’ve enjoyed, your family pet or ask for reading recommendations.
Send letters May 1-31 to:
Waukee Public Library, Attn: Letters with Librarians
P.O. Box 68, Waukee, IA 50263
Don’t have a stamp? Upload a photo of your letter or artwork at www.waukeepubliclibrary.org/letters-librarians, and you will still receive a reply in the mail.
This May, make a librarian your pen pal. Get writing practice and receive some happy mail during this time of community distancing. Kids are invited to mail a handwritten letter or drawing to the Waukee Public Library, and the librarians will write them back. Write about a book you’ve enjoyed, your family pet or ask for reading recommendations.
Send letters May 1-31 to:
Waukee Public Library, Attn: Letters with Librarians
P.O. Box 68, Waukee, IA 50263
Don’t have a stamp? Upload a photo of your letter or artwork at www.waukeepubliclibrary.org/letters-librarians, and you will still receive a reply in the mail.
April Building Permit Report
Posted 5/7/2020
The City of Waukee issued 143 building permits in April 2020. There were 40 permits issued for single family homes, 12 permits issued for townhomes and 87 which fall in the “Other” category (monument signs, furnaces, etc.). The total taxable valuation in April equaled $22.56 million.
The City of Waukee issued 143 building permits in April 2020. There were 40 permits issued for single family homes, 12 permits issued for townhomes and 87 which fall in the “Other” category (monument signs, furnaces, etc.). The total taxable valuation in April equaled $22.56 million.
#25for25 Campaign Supports Iowans and Local Non-Profit Mission
Posted 5/7/2020
The nine-week campaign, called 25 for 25, features 25 Iowa artists, small businesses and entrepreneurs. Each week, three of these vendors are featured and their products are promoted on social media and the website.
Here’s how it works: Anyone interested in purchasing the promoted items pays $25. The Iowa Able Foundation splits the proceeds with the vendor, and the item purchased is mailed directly to the donor’s home.
Visit iamableiowa.com/25for25 to view the latest vendor options.
The nine-week campaign, called 25 for 25, features 25 Iowa artists, small businesses and entrepreneurs. Each week, three of these vendors are featured and their products are promoted on social media and the website.
Here’s how it works: Anyone interested in purchasing the promoted items pays $25. The Iowa Able Foundation splits the proceeds with the vendor, and the item purchased is mailed directly to the donor’s home.
Visit iamableiowa.com/25for25 to view the latest vendor options.
DMARC launches food pantry delivery service
Posted 5/7/2020
The Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) Food Pantry Network is launching a food pantry delivery service to meet the needs of people experiencing food insecurity in Greater Des Moines at this time.
If a person is unable to obtain food by either visiting a food pantry location or by using a proxy to pick up food for them, they may call to request a delivery. DMARC is asking that only those with health, transportation or other mitigating circumstances use this service. People can call 1-833-DMARC-20 (1-833-362-7220) toll free to request a delivery. This number will be staffed by trained volunteers and staff from 9 a.m. to noon, Monday through Friday. Requests for delivery will be taken on a first-come first-serve basis, and delivery capacity will depend on the number of volunteers available. The service is launching with a maximum of 50 food pantry deliveries per day. Requests for delivery will close at noon, or after 50 spots have been filled.
Once the order is placed, food will be delivered to the person’s doorstep with a no-contact drop-off the following business day between 9 a.m. and noon.
Those interested in volunteering to deliver food can sign up at dmarcunited.org/volunteer.
The Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) Food Pantry Network is launching a food pantry delivery service to meet the needs of people experiencing food insecurity in Greater Des Moines at this time.
If a person is unable to obtain food by either visiting a food pantry location or by using a proxy to pick up food for them, they may call to request a delivery. DMARC is asking that only those with health, transportation or other mitigating circumstances use this service. People can call 1-833-DMARC-20 (1-833-362-7220) toll free to request a delivery. This number will be staffed by trained volunteers and staff from 9 a.m. to noon, Monday through Friday. Requests for delivery will be taken on a first-come first-serve basis, and delivery capacity will depend on the number of volunteers available. The service is launching with a maximum of 50 food pantry deliveries per day. Requests for delivery will close at noon, or after 50 spots have been filled.
Once the order is placed, food will be delivered to the person’s doorstep with a no-contact drop-off the following business day between 9 a.m. and noon.
Those interested in volunteering to deliver food can sign up at dmarcunited.org/volunteer.
Des Moines Symphony postpones concerts
Posted 5/7/2020
The Des Moines Symphony announced that it will postpone its annual Yankee Doodle Pops concert, as well as its second summer season of Water Works Pops.
The Des Moines Symphony’s Yankee Doodle Pops, originally planned for Thursday, July 2 at the Iowa State Capitol, will be reimagined as a community-wide Labor Day celebration on Monday, Sept. 7 in the Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park.
The Symphony’s second season of Water Works Pops, originally scheduled July 24-26, will move to Labor Day weekend along with the rescheduled Yankee Doodle Pops Concert, creating a full weekend of free music for the community. These free, outdoor concerts, offered Sept. 5-7, will be presented thanks to the generous support of Linda and Tom Koehn.
Further announcements will be made at dmsymphony.org.
The Des Moines Symphony announced that it will postpone its annual Yankee Doodle Pops concert, as well as its second summer season of Water Works Pops.
The Des Moines Symphony’s Yankee Doodle Pops, originally planned for Thursday, July 2 at the Iowa State Capitol, will be reimagined as a community-wide Labor Day celebration on Monday, Sept. 7 in the Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park.
The Symphony’s second season of Water Works Pops, originally scheduled July 24-26, will move to Labor Day weekend along with the rescheduled Yankee Doodle Pops Concert, creating a full weekend of free music for the community. These free, outdoor concerts, offered Sept. 5-7, will be presented thanks to the generous support of Linda and Tom Koehn.
Further announcements will be made at dmsymphony.org.
Funeral notices
Posted 4/30/2020
- Joseph Arnold Stonebraker, 66, of Waukee, passed away Sunday May 3, 2020. A funeral service was held on Thursday, May 7 at Westover Funeral Home. Burial followed at Glendale Cemetery.
- Diane Kay Herselius, 70, of Waukee, passed away April 29, 2020. Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway was in charge of arrangements.
- Luella Jennie Frey, 90, of Waukee, passed away on April 28, 2020. A Celebration of Life will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Sunday, May 17, at Saylorville Event Center, in Des Moines. The family will receive friends from 4-7 p.m.
Enjoy a Backyard Campout
Posted 4/30/2020
Campgrounds are closed in Iowa, but you can still enjoy a backyard campout. If you love s’mores, campfire stories and sleeping in a tent, check out these planning ideas, a list of supplies and more to help you plan for a backyard camping adventure. Not into the great outdoors? No problem — set up a campground in your living room or basement. Just keep it to members of your own household, please. Just for fun, post photos and tag Waukee Parks & Recreation with pictures of your best camping setup and any fun activities you participate in.
Campgrounds are closed in Iowa, but you can still enjoy a backyard campout. If you love s’mores, campfire stories and sleeping in a tent, check out these planning ideas, a list of supplies and more to help you plan for a backyard camping adventure. Not into the great outdoors? No problem — set up a campground in your living room or basement. Just keep it to members of your own household, please. Just for fun, post photos and tag Waukee Parks & Recreation with pictures of your best camping setup and any fun activities you participate in.
Polling Locations Change
Posted 4/30/2020
The Dallas County Auditor’s Office received a directive from Secretary of State Paul Pate that the Primary Election will be held as scheduled on June 2, 2020. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Dallas County Auditor’s office wants to ensure all registered voters and eligible voters stay healthy, thus they are limiting the number of polling locations across the county.
The Primary location for all Waukee precincts will be at the Waukee Schools Administrative Building located at 560 S.E. University Ave.
Dallas County voters may choose to request an absentee ballot instead, and cast ballots from home. Voters can complete an Absentee Request Form and mail it back no later than May 22, 2020. Call 515-993-6914 with any questions. They are only accepting Primary Election Absentee Request Forms; General Election requests will not be accepted until July 6 or later.
The Dallas County Auditor’s Office received a directive from Secretary of State Paul Pate that the Primary Election will be held as scheduled on June 2, 2020. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Dallas County Auditor’s office wants to ensure all registered voters and eligible voters stay healthy, thus they are limiting the number of polling locations across the county.
The Primary location for all Waukee precincts will be at the Waukee Schools Administrative Building located at 560 S.E. University Ave.
Dallas County voters may choose to request an absentee ballot instead, and cast ballots from home. Voters can complete an Absentee Request Form and mail it back no later than May 22, 2020. Call 515-993-6914 with any questions. They are only accepting Primary Election Absentee Request Forms; General Election requests will not be accepted until July 6 or later.
2020 Safety City Sessions Canceled
Posted 4/30/2020
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and in an effort to keep citizens safe, the Waukee Police Department’s 2020 Safety City program is canceled. The department is issuing full refunds to those already registered for Safety City. Unfortunately, the program will not be rescheduled. Call 515-978-7979 with questions.
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and in an effort to keep citizens safe, the Waukee Police Department’s 2020 Safety City program is canceled. The department is issuing full refunds to those already registered for Safety City. Unfortunately, the program will not be rescheduled. Call 515-978-7979 with questions.
Willard Garage repair special for essential workers
Posted 4/30/2020
Willard Garage has a repair special for essential workers: $20 off a $100+ repair, $40 off a $200+ repair or $60 off a $300+ repair. Will need to show work ID for the discount. Willard Garage is open 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.
Willard Garage has a repair special for essential workers: $20 off a $100+ repair, $40 off a $200+ repair or $60 off a $300+ repair. Will need to show work ID for the discount. Willard Garage is open 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.
City Council Approves Library Stormwater and Parking Lot Improvements
Posted 4/30/2020
On April 20, the Waukee City Council approved plans, specifications, form of contract and estimate of costs and awarded the contract for the Waukee Public Library Stormwater Improvements Project. The proposed project will improve an existing detention area and provide water quality improvement in addition to water quantity. It will expand the existing library parking lot, doubling the number of spaces, and will beautify the area utilizing bio-retention and bio-swale installation. Construction is expected to start this spring and wrap up in late 2020.
On April 20, the Waukee City Council approved plans, specifications, form of contract and estimate of costs and awarded the contract for the Waukee Public Library Stormwater Improvements Project. The proposed project will improve an existing detention area and provide water quality improvement in addition to water quantity. It will expand the existing library parking lot, doubling the number of spaces, and will beautify the area utilizing bio-retention and bio-swale installation. Construction is expected to start this spring and wrap up in late 2020.
Funeral notices
Posted 4/30/2020
- Barbara Widlund-Rhinehart, 87, of Waukee, passed away Thursday, April 29. Ernst Funeral & Cremation Services is in charge of services.
- Darline Henrietta Urfer, 102, of Waukee, passed away Thursday, April 23. Services were held April 28 at Iles-Brandt Chapel in Dallas Center. Private family burial followed at Sunny Hill Cemetery in Grimes. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church in Grimes.
Alice’s Road Landscape Enhancements Project Approved
Posted 4/30/2020
On April 20, the Waukee City Council approved the plans, specification and estimate of cost and awarded the contract for the Alice’s Road Landscape Enhancements Project. The project consists of landscaping and signage elements within the four medians along Alice’s Road between Hickman Road and University Avenue. The project also includes street banners, street trees and additional landscaping elements around the gas regulator station. The project follows years of widening Alice’s Road from two lanes to six, and it builds on the City Council’s vision for a beautiful community. Construction will begin in late May/early June and should wrap up before the end of 2020.
On April 20, the Waukee City Council approved the plans, specification and estimate of cost and awarded the contract for the Alice’s Road Landscape Enhancements Project. The project consists of landscaping and signage elements within the four medians along Alice’s Road between Hickman Road and University Avenue. The project also includes street banners, street trees and additional landscaping elements around the gas regulator station. The project follows years of widening Alice’s Road from two lanes to six, and it builds on the City Council’s vision for a beautiful community. Construction will begin in late May/early June and should wrap up before the end of 2020.
Classifieds
Posted 4/30/2020
- HELP Wanted: Imagine the Possibilities Inc. is looking for motivated, supportive, and compassionate people to enhance the lives of our individuals with developmental disabilities. We have an immediate Full-Time and Part-Time positions available in hour Hourly HCBS program in our Adel location. The HCBS Direct Support Professional is responsible for implementation and documentation of goals and objectives for individuals served. The DSP will be an active advocate for individuals served with an emphasis on individual choice and decision-making. No experience necessary- we provide training for our team members. We offer a fantastic benefit package including 401k options, health, dental, vision and supplemental insurance options. Benefits also include a generous PTO package with pay out options. For more information or to apply online, please visit www.imagineia.org/employment.
- WANTED: Wanted bicycles any age or condition for parts or fixer uppers. Will pick them up, 515-238-3343.
- HELP Wanted: FedEx Ground in Grimes is hiring. If you’ve found yourself looking for a job due to COVID-19 shutdowns, FedEx Ground needs people to help us support the economy, handling life-saving medications and other items that keep Americans as prepared as possible during these uncertain times. https://careers.fedex.com/groundwarehousejobs/jobs?location=grimes,ia
Waukee Library Donates 800 Books to Go With School District’s Free Lunches
Posted 4/23/2020
On April 15, the Waukee Public Library donated 800 books to be given out through the Waukee Community School District’s current free “Grab and Go Meals” program. Since 2017, the library has donated books to free summertime school lunch locations, and staff decided to expand the donations now after having to close the library’s doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The free books will be distributed through the lunch program in the coming weeks. It will also continue to donate books over the summer months thanks to the Summer Reading Program sponsor, Green State Credit Union.
On April 15, the Waukee Public Library donated 800 books to be given out through the Waukee Community School District’s current free “Grab and Go Meals” program. Since 2017, the library has donated books to free summertime school lunch locations, and staff decided to expand the donations now after having to close the library’s doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The free books will be distributed through the lunch program in the coming weeks. It will also continue to donate books over the summer months thanks to the Summer Reading Program sponsor, Green State Credit Union.
Primary Absentee Ballot Requests Now Accepted
Posted 4/23/2020
The Dallas County Elections Office is now accepting absentee ballot requests for the June 2, 2020, Primary Election. Please submit request forms via mail or the drop box located outside of the Auditor’s office at 210 N. 10th Street in Adel, IA 50003.
The office is NOT accepting absentee requests for the Nov. 3, 2020, General Election until July 6, 2020.
The Dallas County Elections Office is now accepting absentee ballot requests for the June 2, 2020, Primary Election. Please submit request forms via mail or the drop box located outside of the Auditor’s office at 210 N. 10th Street in Adel, IA 50003.
The office is NOT accepting absentee requests for the Nov. 3, 2020, General Election until July 6, 2020.
Fire department offering (distant) visits
Posted 4/23/2020
The members of the Waukee Fire Department have had to cancel most community outreach efforts such as education events and station tours amid the COVID-19 outbreak. But that doesn’t mean they can’t help Waukee residents celebrate fun occasions. For any kids stuck celebrating their birthdays or other special occasions at home, the firefighters will visit*... from a safe distance. The firefighters on duty will drive by in a mini parade of sorts. Call 515-978-7998, or send a message via the Waukee Fire Department’s Facebook page to arrange the visit. The duty crew will contact you when they are on the way.
*Visits planned on a first-come, first-served basis. The department may get called off to an incident and will let participants know if they are delayed.
The members of the Waukee Fire Department have had to cancel most community outreach efforts such as education events and station tours amid the COVID-19 outbreak. But that doesn’t mean they can’t help Waukee residents celebrate fun occasions. For any kids stuck celebrating their birthdays or other special occasions at home, the firefighters will visit*... from a safe distance. The firefighters on duty will drive by in a mini parade of sorts. Call 515-978-7998, or send a message via the Waukee Fire Department’s Facebook page to arrange the visit. The duty crew will contact you when they are on the way.
*Visits planned on a first-come, first-served basis. The department may get called off to an incident and will let participants know if they are delayed.
Now open
Posted 4/23/2020
Please call ahead, as some businesses may have altered hours or even closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The new RE/MAX office is open at 651 N.E. Venture Drive just north of Hickman Road and west of Alice’s Road. The 9,861-square-foot building also had space for two future tenants.
• Tommy’s Car Wash is now open at 180 S.E. Alice’s Road.
• Scooter’s Coffee is now open in Waukee Vista Commercial Park at 120 W. Hickman Road. The 4,500 square foot building includes additional tenant space as well.
• The Iowa DOT’s new Dallas County Driver’s License Station is now open in Kettlestone Plaza (1156 S.E. Ashworth Drive).
Please call ahead, as some businesses may have altered hours or even closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The new RE/MAX office is open at 651 N.E. Venture Drive just north of Hickman Road and west of Alice’s Road. The 9,861-square-foot building also had space for two future tenants.
• Tommy’s Car Wash is now open at 180 S.E. Alice’s Road.
• Scooter’s Coffee is now open in Waukee Vista Commercial Park at 120 W. Hickman Road. The 4,500 square foot building includes additional tenant space as well.
• The Iowa DOT’s new Dallas County Driver’s License Station is now open in Kettlestone Plaza (1156 S.E. Ashworth Drive).
Funeral notice
Posted 4/23/2020
Willard “Bill” Hanson, of West Des Moines, formerly Waukee, 72, passed away at home on April 20, 2020. Visitation will be held Friday, April 24, 2020, 10-11:15 a.m. at Ernst Funeral Home. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, only 10 people will be allowed in at a given time, so your patience is appreciated. Private family services to follow.
To view Bill’s full obituary, visit: www.ErnstFuneralHome.com. His service can be live streamed or viewed afterwards on the Facebook page. (Ernst Funeral & Cremation Services)
Willard “Bill” Hanson, of West Des Moines, formerly Waukee, 72, passed away at home on April 20, 2020. Visitation will be held Friday, April 24, 2020, 10-11:15 a.m. at Ernst Funeral Home. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, only 10 people will be allowed in at a given time, so your patience is appreciated. Private family services to follow.
To view Bill’s full obituary, visit: www.ErnstFuneralHome.com. His service can be live streamed or viewed afterwards on the Facebook page. (Ernst Funeral & Cremation Services)
Health Navigation continues to assist
Posted 4/23/2020
Health Navigation continues to assist anyone who lives in Dallas County with issues such as health insurance, food, housing, employment and mental health. Services are free. To help reduce the spread of COVID-19, Health Navigators aren’t currently making face-to-face contacts, but are available by phone, 515-993-3750, and email, phn@dallascountyiowa.gov.
Health Navigation continues to assist anyone who lives in Dallas County with issues such as health insurance, food, housing, employment and mental health. Services are free. To help reduce the spread of COVID-19, Health Navigators aren’t currently making face-to-face contacts, but are available by phone, 515-993-3750, and email, phn@dallascountyiowa.gov.
Register for Warrior Lanes party
Posted 4/23/2020
Warrior Lanes will be giving away a bowling party for you and up to 9 guests every week from now until bowling is allowed to happen again. Visit www.strikingupsupport.com/warrior-lanes. After you fill out the form to enter yourself to win, share it via social media or email using the link found on the thank you page or in the email you’ll receive. They will draw a new winner every Monday until they can open their doors again.
Warrior Lanes will be giving away a bowling party for you and up to 9 guests every week from now until bowling is allowed to happen again. Visit www.strikingupsupport.com/warrior-lanes. After you fill out the form to enter yourself to win, share it via social media or email using the link found on the thank you page or in the email you’ll receive. They will draw a new winner every Monday until they can open their doors again.
Free preschool
Posted 4/23/2020
Waukee Head Start is currently taking applications for the 2020-2021 school year. Children need to be age 3 or 4 by Sept. 15, 2020. Classes are held Monday - Friday 8:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. A free breakfast, lunch and snack are provided. Head Start is of no cost for any services it provides. They offer a quality preschool experience by teachers with teaching degrees.
Proof of income needs to be provided, as well as proof of age. Families that receive social security disability for any family member, TANF or children that are in foster care automatically qualify. Families not receiving these can also qualify. Family members are also encouraged to apply for any children who might have some special needs.
For additional information, contact Christina Schalk, Head Start family advocate, at 712-830-1327 or cschalk@newopp.org.
Waukee Head Start is currently taking applications for the 2020-2021 school year. Children need to be age 3 or 4 by Sept. 15, 2020. Classes are held Monday - Friday 8:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. A free breakfast, lunch and snack are provided. Head Start is of no cost for any services it provides. They offer a quality preschool experience by teachers with teaching degrees.
Proof of income needs to be provided, as well as proof of age. Families that receive social security disability for any family member, TANF or children that are in foster care automatically qualify. Families not receiving these can also qualify. Family members are also encouraged to apply for any children who might have some special needs.
For additional information, contact Christina Schalk, Head Start family advocate, at 712-830-1327 or cschalk@newopp.org.
Clean-up events canceled
Posted 4/16/2020
Waukee’s annual Spring Clean-Up Week, previously scheduled for April 27 - May 2, is now canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, City of Waukee/ASI garbage customers can still place one bulky item on the curb for pick-up each week. ASI offers this service all year. Simply place the bulky item on the curb by 7 a.m. on your designated trash collection day, and crews will pick it up in addition to the items in your trash/recycling bins. Please review a list of accepted items and a listing of items that will not be collected at www.waukee.org. This service does not apply to those living in neighborhood associations and apartment complexes with private trash collection.
The Household Hazardous Waste, Appliance and Tire Drop-Off Day will likely be rescheduled later this year.
Waukee’s annual Spring Clean-Up Week, previously scheduled for April 27 - May 2, is now canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, City of Waukee/ASI garbage customers can still place one bulky item on the curb for pick-up each week. ASI offers this service all year. Simply place the bulky item on the curb by 7 a.m. on your designated trash collection day, and crews will pick it up in addition to the items in your trash/recycling bins. Please review a list of accepted items and a listing of items that will not be collected at www.waukee.org. This service does not apply to those living in neighborhood associations and apartment complexes with private trash collection.
The Household Hazardous Waste, Appliance and Tire Drop-Off Day will likely be rescheduled later this year.
Police officer hiring extended
Posted 4/16/2020
The Waukee Police Department is accepting applications for new and certified officers. The department is extending its application deadline for police officers. Certified and non-certified applicants are encouraged to apply by April 24 at noon.
The Waukee Police Department is accepting applications for new and certified officers. The department is extending its application deadline for police officers. Certified and non-certified applicants are encouraged to apply by April 24 at noon.
Funeral notices
Posted 4/16/2020
- James W. “Jim” Zoellner, 81, of Waukee, died on Wednesday, April 15, 2020. Private family services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 18, which will be livestreamed on the Iles Website. Go to IlesCares.com and scroll down below Jim’s obituary to join the webcast at 1:45 p.m. Saturday. Cremation will follow services.
- Curtis Leland Scott (Scotty), 76, of Waukee, died Monday, April 13, 2020. In light of the current circumstances, services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made in Curtis’ memory to: Ride the Thin Blue Line, c/o Serve Credit Union, 3743 86th St., Urbandale, IA 50322.
- Donnell E. McCart, 92, of Waukee died Monday, April 13, 2020. Cremation rites have been accorded, and private family services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. Online condolences will be welcomed at IlesCares.com.
Updated: school district providing grab and go meals
Posted 4/16/2020
The Waukee Community Schools Nutrition Services Department will provide an opportunity for families to pick up free breakfast and lunch for children younger than 18 until further notice.
Meals will be available Monday-Friday, 11 a.m. to noon at the following locations:
• Windfield West Apartments, 75 S.E. Windfield Parkway, Waukee, at the basketball court.
• Sun Prairie Apartments, 6137 Vista Drive, West Des Moines, in the parking lot behind the building nearest 60th Street and Vista Drive; enter at 6107 Vista Drive.
• New location: Waukee High School, 555 S.E. University Ave., at the bus lane located at the southeast corner. This location only will be open Monday - Friday 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Children must be present in order to receive meals. Lunches will be distributed between 11 a.m. and noon in the parking lot of each location. Grab and go pick up will be offered to those families on-site. All others stay in your car and wait for the meals to be brought to your car. You will receive meals (lunch and next day’s breakfast) based on the number of children in the car ages 1-18.
The Waukee Community Schools Nutrition Services Department will provide an opportunity for families to pick up free breakfast and lunch for children younger than 18 until further notice.
Meals will be available Monday-Friday, 11 a.m. to noon at the following locations:
• Windfield West Apartments, 75 S.E. Windfield Parkway, Waukee, at the basketball court.
• Sun Prairie Apartments, 6137 Vista Drive, West Des Moines, in the parking lot behind the building nearest 60th Street and Vista Drive; enter at 6107 Vista Drive.
• New location: Waukee High School, 555 S.E. University Ave., at the bus lane located at the southeast corner. This location only will be open Monday - Friday 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Children must be present in order to receive meals. Lunches will be distributed between 11 a.m. and noon in the parking lot of each location. Grab and go pick up will be offered to those families on-site. All others stay in your car and wait for the meals to be brought to your car. You will receive meals (lunch and next day’s breakfast) based on the number of children in the car ages 1-18.
Classifieds
Posted 4/16/2020
WANTED: Wanted bicycles any age or condition for parts or fixer uppers. Will pick them up, 515-238-3343.
HELP WANTED: FedEx Ground in Grimes is hiring. If you’ve found yourself looking for a job due to COVID-19 shutdowns, FedEx Ground needs people to help us support the economy, handling life-saving medications and other items that keep Americans as prepared as possible during these uncertain times. https://careers.fedex.com/groundwarehousejobs/jobs?location=grimes,ia
DOG NEEDS HOME: Teddy needs a good home. 5-year-old Lab/boxer mix. Brown and white markings. Beautiful dog. Great with kids. Call 515-238-3198. Located 5 miles from Grimes.
WANTED: Wanted bicycles any age or condition for parts or fixer uppers. Will pick them up, 515-238-3343.
HELP WANTED: FedEx Ground in Grimes is hiring. If you’ve found yourself looking for a job due to COVID-19 shutdowns, FedEx Ground needs people to help us support the economy, handling life-saving medications and other items that keep Americans as prepared as possible during these uncertain times. https://careers.fedex.com/groundwarehousejobs/jobs?location=grimes,ia
DOG NEEDS HOME: Teddy needs a good home. 5-year-old Lab/boxer mix. Brown and white markings. Beautiful dog. Great with kids. Call 515-238-3198. Located 5 miles from Grimes.
Waukee City Council Approves Budget for FY 2021
Posted 4/9/2020
The Waukee City Council held a public hearing at its regular meeting on Monday, April 6 at 5:30 p.m. to review and approve the City’s proposed budget and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for Fiscal Year 2021.
The proposed budget is a reflection of the Waukee Mayor and City Council’s Vision and Priorities and serves as the major policymaking tool of the organization. A 10-cent decrease to the City’s property tax levy is proposed. If approved, the City’s portion of the tax levy will be $13.30 per $1,000 of taxable valuation. The City’s portion accounts for approximately 36 percent of Waukee property owners’ consolidated levy rate.
The budget for the City of Waukee is comprised of basic operating expenditures totaling approximately $17.6 million, business/proprietary expenses of $17.1 million, debt service expenditures of $9.5 million, capital improvement expenditures of $38.8 million and $12.7 million in other expenses, with all totaling $95.7 million.
Highlights of the $38.8 million CIP include:
The first round of street construction near the future Northwest High School, which features the widening of NW 10th Street and construction of a portion of Sunrise Drive.
The addition of a large stormwater management project at the Waukee Public Library, utilizing bioretention.
Construction of an aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) for underground storage of water needed during peak times of the year.
Construction of the Southwest Trunk Sewer.
Several new park projects – many utilizing funds from the Dallas County Local Option Sales Tax.
The City of Waukee currently has 113 full-time staff positions. The FY 2021 staffing plan is headlined by the addition of four new full-time public safety positions, the creation of an Assistant Finance Director position and the shift of one HR Specialist from part-time to full-time. Public safety improvement and efficiency of City services are of high importance to the Waukee Mayor and City Council.
The City Council will vote on proposed utility rate increases. If approved, water and sewer utility rates will increase by 3 percent and stormwater utility rates will increase by $0.25, totaling a $3.05 monthly billing increase for the average Waukee household. The moderate increase will help keep up with increased operation and system costs.
The Waukee City Council held a public hearing at its regular meeting on Monday, April 6 at 5:30 p.m. to review and approve the City’s proposed budget and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for Fiscal Year 2021.
The proposed budget is a reflection of the Waukee Mayor and City Council’s Vision and Priorities and serves as the major policymaking tool of the organization. A 10-cent decrease to the City’s property tax levy is proposed. If approved, the City’s portion of the tax levy will be $13.30 per $1,000 of taxable valuation. The City’s portion accounts for approximately 36 percent of Waukee property owners’ consolidated levy rate.
The budget for the City of Waukee is comprised of basic operating expenditures totaling approximately $17.6 million, business/proprietary expenses of $17.1 million, debt service expenditures of $9.5 million, capital improvement expenditures of $38.8 million and $12.7 million in other expenses, with all totaling $95.7 million.
Highlights of the $38.8 million CIP include:
The first round of street construction near the future Northwest High School, which features the widening of NW 10th Street and construction of a portion of Sunrise Drive.
The addition of a large stormwater management project at the Waukee Public Library, utilizing bioretention.
Construction of an aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) for underground storage of water needed during peak times of the year.
Construction of the Southwest Trunk Sewer.
Several new park projects – many utilizing funds from the Dallas County Local Option Sales Tax.
The City of Waukee currently has 113 full-time staff positions. The FY 2021 staffing plan is headlined by the addition of four new full-time public safety positions, the creation of an Assistant Finance Director position and the shift of one HR Specialist from part-time to full-time. Public safety improvement and efficiency of City services are of high importance to the Waukee Mayor and City Council.
The City Council will vote on proposed utility rate increases. If approved, water and sewer utility rates will increase by 3 percent and stormwater utility rates will increase by $0.25, totaling a $3.05 monthly billing increase for the average Waukee household. The moderate increase will help keep up with increased operation and system costs.
Iowa PBS hosts online storytimes, more
Posted 4/9/2020
View a virtual learning camp, livestream of Iowa PBS Kids, coloring contest and more at www.iowapbs.org/families. Abby Brown will share a story online each Wednesday. Join Iowa PBS on www.facebook.com/iowapbs Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.
View a virtual learning camp, livestream of Iowa PBS Kids, coloring contest and more at www.iowapbs.org/families. Abby Brown will share a story online each Wednesday. Join Iowa PBS on www.facebook.com/iowapbs Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.
Funeral notices
Posted 4/9/2020
- Dorothy Mae (Coleman) Politte, 100, of Waukee, died April 5, 2020. A Celebration of Life memorial will be held at a later date.
- John A. Gage, 91, of Waukee, died April 2, 2020.
Des Moines Art Center launches virtual tours
Posted 4/9/2020
The Des Moines Art Center recently launched seven virtual tours of its permanent collections and special exhibitions. The tours allow visitors to click through the extensive collections as if they were at the museum — an important experience as the Art Center galleries are closed to the public until April 7 in response to COVID-19. www.desmoinesartcenter.org/visit/virtualtours
The Des Moines Art Center recently launched seven virtual tours of its permanent collections and special exhibitions. The tours allow visitors to click through the extensive collections as if they were at the museum — an important experience as the Art Center galleries are closed to the public until April 7 in response to COVID-19. www.desmoinesartcenter.org/visit/virtualtours
New virtual fundraising gala plans underway in Dallas County
Posted 4/9/2020
Volunteers with Waukee Area Christian Services are making plans for their fourth annual fund-raising gala in April with a new direction — it will be online, not in-person, this year. Proceeds from the gala will help address the growing food, medical and advocate services needs in Dallas County. This year’s goal is $52,000.
The “Creating Connections” gala will begin on Monday, April 13 and conclude with a live streaming event scheduled for Friday evening, April 17. The Friday night live event will last approximately 20 minutes and allow for a greater number of participants than the originally planned in-person event.
Details on Waukee Area Christian Services and their upcoming gala are available at https://waukeechristianservices.org.
Volunteers with Waukee Area Christian Services are making plans for their fourth annual fund-raising gala in April with a new direction — it will be online, not in-person, this year. Proceeds from the gala will help address the growing food, medical and advocate services needs in Dallas County. This year’s goal is $52,000.
The “Creating Connections” gala will begin on Monday, April 13 and conclude with a live streaming event scheduled for Friday evening, April 17. The Friday night live event will last approximately 20 minutes and allow for a greater number of participants than the originally planned in-person event.
Details on Waukee Area Christian Services and their upcoming gala are available at https://waukeechristianservices.org.
Intermittent lane closures expected on Kettlestone Boulevard
Posted 4/2/2020
Intermittent lane closures are expected along Kettlestone Boulevard to the east of Grand Prairie Parkway during the next few weeks. Crews are completing sewer, paving and traffic signal work to extend Kettlestone Boulevard.
Intermittent lane closures are expected along Kettlestone Boulevard to the east of Grand Prairie Parkway during the next few weeks. Crews are completing sewer, paving and traffic signal work to extend Kettlestone Boulevard.
WASP Senior Luncheons postponed until July
Posted 4/2/2020
The Waukee Area Seniors and Police (WASP) luncheons will be postponed until July due to COVID-19 concerns. The next scheduled WASP senior luncheon will be Wednesday, July 29 at noon at the Waukee Community Center. These luncheons are free and aim to connect the senior population with police officers to work together to prevent crime and enhance safety.
The Waukee Area Seniors and Police (WASP) luncheons will be postponed until July due to COVID-19 concerns. The next scheduled WASP senior luncheon will be Wednesday, July 29 at noon at the Waukee Community Center. These luncheons are free and aim to connect the senior population with police officers to work together to prevent crime and enhance safety.
Join the Social Distancing Egg Hunt
Posted 4/2/2020
Due to the COVID-19 situation, Waukee’s traditional Easter Egg Hunt scheduled for April 11 is canceled. But, don’t worry — the Waukee Parks & Recreation Department is joining with many other departments throughout Iowa to organize a “Social Distancing Egg Hunt.”
The Social Distancing Egg Hunt aims to get community members outside for fresh air and fun — all while keeping a healthy distance from each other. So, here’s how it works:
• Create a big Easter Egg. Find poster board or paper, and color, paint, draw or collage your egg. You could even create something digitally.
• Hang the egg on a front-facing window or door so egg hunters can see it.
• Get out and “hunt” for all the other eggs in the community.
• Post pictures and tag social media accounts for a chance to win prizes.
Waukee residents and businesses — play along to give kids and families something fun to do during this time of isolation. Please keep eggs up through April 12.
Due to the COVID-19 situation, Waukee’s traditional Easter Egg Hunt scheduled for April 11 is canceled. But, don’t worry — the Waukee Parks & Recreation Department is joining with many other departments throughout Iowa to organize a “Social Distancing Egg Hunt.”
The Social Distancing Egg Hunt aims to get community members outside for fresh air and fun — all while keeping a healthy distance from each other. So, here’s how it works:
• Create a big Easter Egg. Find poster board or paper, and color, paint, draw or collage your egg. You could even create something digitally.
• Hang the egg on a front-facing window or door so egg hunters can see it.
• Get out and “hunt” for all the other eggs in the community.
• Post pictures and tag social media accounts for a chance to win prizes.
Waukee residents and businesses — play along to give kids and families something fun to do during this time of isolation. Please keep eggs up through April 12.
Waukee Parks and Trails remain open with restrictions, playgrounds closes
Posted 4/2/2020
Waukee parks and trails are currently open to the public for recreation but due to COVID-19 concerns, effective immediately, playground equipment and shelter houses are closed until further notice. All park restrooms remain closed and water fountains are turned off. The Trailside Dog Park, along with the tennis, pickleball and basketball courts will remain open at this time. Team sports, pickup games and contact play are prohibited.
The City will not install caution tape or fencing at the parks; residents are asked to do their part to keep family, friends, neighbors and the community safe. Signage will be posted at each park regarding the closure. The City’s priority is protecting the health and safety of our residents and continuing to serve the public.
Waukee parks and trails are currently open to the public for recreation but due to COVID-19 concerns, effective immediately, playground equipment and shelter houses are closed until further notice. All park restrooms remain closed and water fountains are turned off. The Trailside Dog Park, along with the tennis, pickleball and basketball courts will remain open at this time. Team sports, pickup games and contact play are prohibited.
The City will not install caution tape or fencing at the parks; residents are asked to do their part to keep family, friends, neighbors and the community safe. Signage will be posted at each park regarding the closure. The City’s priority is protecting the health and safety of our residents and continuing to serve the public.
Funeral notices
Posted 4/2/2020
• JoAnn Marie Welch, 84, of Waukee, died March 30, 2020. A celebration service will be held at Lutheran Church of Hope, 925 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines. Date and time are pending. Memorials may be sent to the Ernst Funeral Home, P.O. Box 986, Waukee, IA 50263.
• Troy Dean Kidd, 69, of Waukee, died March 28, 2020.
• Dolores Anna Knight, 90, of Waukee died March 25, 2020.
• JoAnn Marie Welch, 84, of Waukee, died March 30, 2020. A celebration service will be held at Lutheran Church of Hope, 925 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines. Date and time are pending. Memorials may be sent to the Ernst Funeral Home, P.O. Box 986, Waukee, IA 50263.
• Troy Dean Kidd, 69, of Waukee, died March 28, 2020.
• Dolores Anna Knight, 90, of Waukee died March 25, 2020.
Waukee Fire Department receives grant from Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation
Posted 4/2/2020
Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation recently awarded a grant to the Waukee Fire Department for the purchase of a BullEx Digital Fire Extinguisher Panel with a smoke machine and additional accessories. The cost of the equipment was $14,950, which was fully covered by the grant.
Following recent population growth in Waukee, the department applied for the grant to help build upon public education efforts about risk reduction and enforcement of the fire code. The department often teaches residents and the business community basic fire safety, which includes how to use fire extinguishers. The new digital fire extinguisher tool will replace an old propane prop which was messy and inefficient.
Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation recently awarded a grant to the Waukee Fire Department for the purchase of a BullEx Digital Fire Extinguisher Panel with a smoke machine and additional accessories. The cost of the equipment was $14,950, which was fully covered by the grant.
Following recent population growth in Waukee, the department applied for the grant to help build upon public education efforts about risk reduction and enforcement of the fire code. The department often teaches residents and the business community basic fire safety, which includes how to use fire extinguishers. The new digital fire extinguisher tool will replace an old propane prop which was messy and inefficient.
Funeral notices
Posted 3/26/2020
• Ronald A. Tanner, 64, of Waukee, died Saturday, March 21. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Make-A-Wish Foundation. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
• Junior Goodson, 81, of Waukee, died Thursday, March 5 at Johnston MercyOne Hospice. Memorials may be made to MercyOne Hospice or Animal Rescue Leagu of Iowa. The family will have a celebration of life at a later date.
• Ronald A. Tanner, 64, of Waukee, died Saturday, March 21. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Make-A-Wish Foundation. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
• Junior Goodson, 81, of Waukee, died Thursday, March 5 at Johnston MercyOne Hospice. Memorials may be made to MercyOne Hospice or Animal Rescue Leagu of Iowa. The family will have a celebration of life at a later date.
Fire department offering (distant) visits
Posted 3/23/2020
The members of the Waukee Fire Department have had to cancel most community outreach efforts such as education events and station tours amid the COVID-19 outbreak. But that doesn’t mean they can’t help Waukee residents celebrate fun occasions. For any kiddos stuck celebrating their birthdays or other special occasions at home, the firefighters will visit*... from a safe distance. The firefighters on duty will drive by in a mini parade of sorts. Call 515-978-7998, or send a message via the Waukee Fire Department’s Facebook page to arrange the visit. The duty crew will contact you when they are on the way.
*Visits planned on a first-come, first-served basis. The department may get called off to an incident and will let participants know if they are delayed.
The members of the Waukee Fire Department have had to cancel most community outreach efforts such as education events and station tours amid the COVID-19 outbreak. But that doesn’t mean they can’t help Waukee residents celebrate fun occasions. For any kiddos stuck celebrating their birthdays or other special occasions at home, the firefighters will visit*... from a safe distance. The firefighters on duty will drive by in a mini parade of sorts. Call 515-978-7998, or send a message via the Waukee Fire Department’s Facebook page to arrange the visit. The duty crew will contact you when they are on the way.
*Visits planned on a first-come, first-served basis. The department may get called off to an incident and will let participants know if they are delayed.
No wipes in the pipes for Waukee
Posted 3/23/2020
The package says flushable, but is it really? Disposable brushes, wipes, tampons/applicators, etc. may say "flushable" on the label, but they can still clog the sewer line. Toilet paper breaks down in water; other items do not break down. This means other items can get stuck in the sewer pipe creating large bills for plumbing and clean-up. Don’t spend your money on a sewer back-up. TRASH anything that is not toilet paper.
The following items go in the garbage, not in the toilet:
The package says flushable, but is it really? Disposable brushes, wipes, tampons/applicators, etc. may say "flushable" on the label, but they can still clog the sewer line. Toilet paper breaks down in water; other items do not break down. This means other items can get stuck in the sewer pipe creating large bills for plumbing and clean-up. Don’t spend your money on a sewer back-up. TRASH anything that is not toilet paper.
The following items go in the garbage, not in the toilet:
- wrappers (any packaging)
- cotton swabs
- cigarettes
- condoms
- sanitary napkins
- tampons and tampon applicators
- baby wipes/personal hygiene wipes
- facial wipes
- disinfecting/cleaning wipes
- paper towels
- facial tissue
- shop towels
Armed robbery at Kum & Go
Posted 3/23/2020
On Sunday, March 22, 2020 around 6:31 p.m., officers responded to Kum & Go Store (3105 Grand Prairie Pkwy.), regarding an armed robbery that had just taken place. One unidentified suspect entered the business through the main front doors. The unidentified subject approached one of the employees behind the counter and a physical altercation between the two ensued. The suspect took an undisclosed amount of U.S. currency. Employees first advised the robbery was with a weapon though no weapon was seen.
Around 8:46 p.m., a subject was stopped and detained by Lamoni Police Department, which had an outstanding arrest warrant from eastern Iowa. A large amount of cash was on his person at the time of the traffic stop. Through investigation the subject was identified as Sammy Dujuan Woodard (DOB: 09/06/1988). Woodard was taken into custody by the Waukee Police Department and booked into the Dallas County Jail on charges of Robbery in the 1st Degree.
If you have any additional information, please contact the Waukee Police Department at 515-978-7979 or Westcom Dispatch at 515-222-3321.
On Sunday, March 22, 2020 around 6:31 p.m., officers responded to Kum & Go Store (3105 Grand Prairie Pkwy.), regarding an armed robbery that had just taken place. One unidentified suspect entered the business through the main front doors. The unidentified subject approached one of the employees behind the counter and a physical altercation between the two ensued. The suspect took an undisclosed amount of U.S. currency. Employees first advised the robbery was with a weapon though no weapon was seen.
Around 8:46 p.m., a subject was stopped and detained by Lamoni Police Department, which had an outstanding arrest warrant from eastern Iowa. A large amount of cash was on his person at the time of the traffic stop. Through investigation the subject was identified as Sammy Dujuan Woodard (DOB: 09/06/1988). Woodard was taken into custody by the Waukee Police Department and booked into the Dallas County Jail on charges of Robbery in the 1st Degree.
If you have any additional information, please contact the Waukee Police Department at 515-978-7979 or Westcom Dispatch at 515-222-3321.
Community services and special hours related to COVID-19
Posted 3/20/2020
Waukee grocery stores and essential community services are altering hours, providing drive-through services and giving other important assistance to help combat the COVID-19 concerns facing those in high-risk or low-income groups.
Here are some highlights:
Waukee grocery stores and essential community services are altering hours, providing drive-through services and giving other important assistance to help combat the COVID-19 concerns facing those in high-risk or low-income groups.
Here are some highlights:
- Grocery store special hours
- Fareway: Open Monday through Saturday; Regular hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Open 8-9 a.m. only for 65+, those with weakened immune systems/serious illness and expectant mothers
- Hy-Vee: Open daily; Regular hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Open 7-8 a.m. only for 65+, those with weakened immune systems/serious illness and expectant mothers
- Aldi: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Free "grab and go" breakfasts and lunches are available for Waukee Community School District students (18 and under). See details.
- The Waukee Area Christian Services’ food pantry has moved to a drive-through method of distribution, and the Free Clinic is now closed through March 31. See details.
- HIRTA Transportation is currently only providing curbside services (no door-to-door) in Dallas County.
City building restrictions and service adjustments
Posted 3/20/2020
With "social distancing" encouraged in the wake of the worldwide COVID-19 outbreak, the City of Waukee has now restricted access to all municipal buildings to authorized personnel only. Many programs and events have also been canceled or postponed. Several City services have been suspended or switched over to remote options only.
See a rundown of City closures and service adjustments as of March 20. This page will be updated as needed.
With "social distancing" encouraged in the wake of the worldwide COVID-19 outbreak, the City of Waukee has now restricted access to all municipal buildings to authorized personnel only. Many programs and events have also been canceled or postponed. Several City services have been suspended or switched over to remote options only.
See a rundown of City closures and service adjustments as of March 20. This page will be updated as needed.
COVID-19 impacts on Dallas County Conservation Board
Posted 3/18/2020
The Dallas County Conservation Board is canceling all public and school programing until further notice as a response to the COVID-19 virus. Additionally, all DCCB buildings and restrooms will be closed to public access effective now through July 1, or until further notice.
Outdoor spaces including conservation and natural area properties and the Raccoon River Valley Trail and portions of the High Trestle Trail in Dallas County remain open for day use at this time, however visitors are encouraged to not congregate in any location. Respect social distancing guidelines even when outside.
All rentals also suspended for now. Facility reservations have been temporarily placed on hold. Conservation Board staff will reach out directly to those with reservations through the end of June, and renters will have the option of a full refund or to take a raincheck on a future rental. Camping is still permitted in designated locations at Kuehn Conservation Area and Sportsman Park, but no restroom or shower facilities will be available for use.
It is the intent of the DCCB staff to maintain daily operations including answering phones, conducting department business, and keeping up on facility, grounds, and vehicle maintenance projects.
“The department continues to reevaluate this dynamic situation,” says Conservation Board director Mike Wallace, “but we remain committed to our organization’s mission. We will lift these temporary restrictions as soon as we safely can.”
The Dallas County Conservation Board made these decisions with the best interest of public and staff safety and to do its part to slow the spread of COVID-19 through our community. These measures align with ongoing discussions and information from the Dallas County Board Supervisors and Public Health.
The Dallas County Conservation Board will continue to assess the situation and adjust as necessary.
For more information please contact the Dallas County Conservation Board office at 515-465-3577 or conservation@dallascountyiowa.gov.
The Dallas County Conservation Board is canceling all public and school programing until further notice as a response to the COVID-19 virus. Additionally, all DCCB buildings and restrooms will be closed to public access effective now through July 1, or until further notice.
Outdoor spaces including conservation and natural area properties and the Raccoon River Valley Trail and portions of the High Trestle Trail in Dallas County remain open for day use at this time, however visitors are encouraged to not congregate in any location. Respect social distancing guidelines even when outside.
All rentals also suspended for now. Facility reservations have been temporarily placed on hold. Conservation Board staff will reach out directly to those with reservations through the end of June, and renters will have the option of a full refund or to take a raincheck on a future rental. Camping is still permitted in designated locations at Kuehn Conservation Area and Sportsman Park, but no restroom or shower facilities will be available for use.
It is the intent of the DCCB staff to maintain daily operations including answering phones, conducting department business, and keeping up on facility, grounds, and vehicle maintenance projects.
“The department continues to reevaluate this dynamic situation,” says Conservation Board director Mike Wallace, “but we remain committed to our organization’s mission. We will lift these temporary restrictions as soon as we safely can.”
The Dallas County Conservation Board made these decisions with the best interest of public and staff safety and to do its part to slow the spread of COVID-19 through our community. These measures align with ongoing discussions and information from the Dallas County Board Supervisors and Public Health.
The Dallas County Conservation Board will continue to assess the situation and adjust as necessary.
For more information please contact the Dallas County Conservation Board office at 515-465-3577 or conservation@dallascountyiowa.gov.
Waukee Public Safety Building closes to public
Posted 3/18/2020
The Waukee Public Safety Building has closed access to the public amid COVID-19 concerns.The Waukee Police Department continues to take calls for service and is taking extra precautions to increase safety. If you need to speak to an officer, please call WestCom dispatch at 515-222-3321. Much of the information and services offered my the Waukee Police Department can be found online.
The Waukee Public Safety Building has closed access to the public amid COVID-19 concerns.The Waukee Police Department continues to take calls for service and is taking extra precautions to increase safety. If you need to speak to an officer, please call WestCom dispatch at 515-222-3321. Much of the information and services offered my the Waukee Police Department can be found online.
Updated statement from Mayor Clarke about COVID-19 impacts
Posted 3/18/2020
On the morning of March 17, Gov. Reynolds issued a State of Public Health Disaster Emergency activating the public health response and recovery aspects of the State Disaster Emergency Plan effective at noon on the 17th. The plan, in response to COVID-19 and lasting through at least March 31, includes closing bars and restaurants with the exception of take-out, drive-through and delivery services; closing fitness centers and gyms; closing theaters; closing casinos; closing senior citizen centers and adult daycare facilities; and prohibiting social, religious, sporting and other gatherings of more than 10 people. Read the full plan and proclamation.
The City of Waukee has already taken steps in the past few days to help limit community spread of COVID-19. The City closed the Waukee Public Library, the Waukee Public Works Building and Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course to the public. We have also been encouraging online, phone, mail or dropbox methods for City business; we have adjusted staff protocols and public encounters; we increased cleaning measures and more. Please see the City’s robust COVID-19 information page, subscribe to COVID-19 community updates, and see a list of ways to do City business remotely.
As this public health situation continues to unfold, the City is also closing City Hall and the Development Services building to the public. Utility bill payments, permit applications, inspection scheduling and more can be done without visiting these buildings in-person. The building vestibules will remain open for document drop-offs. Payment drop boxes are also available. The Waukee Public Safety Building’s lobby remains open. Phone lines are still being staffed during office hours at these City buildings.
These are trying times for pretty much everyone in the world. Please know that City of Waukee elected officials and staff are closely monitoring the situation. The Iowa Department of Public Health has announced there are two Dallas County residents who have tested positive for COVID-19. While there is no specific indication that either of the two cases are in Waukee, it is still best to be vigilant, yet also calm. I encourage you to follow the Center for Disease Control and the Iowa Department of Public Health’s recommendations to wash hands often, practice social distancing and more.
The City will continue to post updates as needed. We are all in this together.
On the morning of March 17, Gov. Reynolds issued a State of Public Health Disaster Emergency activating the public health response and recovery aspects of the State Disaster Emergency Plan effective at noon on the 17th. The plan, in response to COVID-19 and lasting through at least March 31, includes closing bars and restaurants with the exception of take-out, drive-through and delivery services; closing fitness centers and gyms; closing theaters; closing casinos; closing senior citizen centers and adult daycare facilities; and prohibiting social, religious, sporting and other gatherings of more than 10 people. Read the full plan and proclamation.
The City of Waukee has already taken steps in the past few days to help limit community spread of COVID-19. The City closed the Waukee Public Library, the Waukee Public Works Building and Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course to the public. We have also been encouraging online, phone, mail or dropbox methods for City business; we have adjusted staff protocols and public encounters; we increased cleaning measures and more. Please see the City’s robust COVID-19 information page, subscribe to COVID-19 community updates, and see a list of ways to do City business remotely.
As this public health situation continues to unfold, the City is also closing City Hall and the Development Services building to the public. Utility bill payments, permit applications, inspection scheduling and more can be done without visiting these buildings in-person. The building vestibules will remain open for document drop-offs. Payment drop boxes are also available. The Waukee Public Safety Building’s lobby remains open. Phone lines are still being staffed during office hours at these City buildings.
These are trying times for pretty much everyone in the world. Please know that City of Waukee elected officials and staff are closely monitoring the situation. The Iowa Department of Public Health has announced there are two Dallas County residents who have tested positive for COVID-19. While there is no specific indication that either of the two cases are in Waukee, it is still best to be vigilant, yet also calm. I encourage you to follow the Center for Disease Control and the Iowa Department of Public Health’s recommendations to wash hands often, practice social distancing and more.
The City will continue to post updates as needed. We are all in this together.
NW Stratford Drive closing
Posted 3/18/2020
Effective Wednesday, March 18, N.W. Stratford Drive will be closed at N.W. 10th Street throughout the duration of the N.W. 10th Street closure. Access to the area will be maintained via N.W. Sunrise Drive.
Effective Wednesday, March 18, N.W. Stratford Drive will be closed at N.W. 10th Street throughout the duration of the N.W. 10th Street closure. Access to the area will be maintained via N.W. Sunrise Drive.
Statewide tornado drill cancelled
Posted 3/17/2020
The statewide tornado drill planned for March 25 as a part of Severe Weather Awareness Week has been canceled.
The statewide tornado drill planned for March 25 as a part of Severe Weather Awareness Week has been canceled.
COVID-19 update
Posted 3/16/2020
Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course in Waukee is now entirely closed to the public as well.
Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course in Waukee is now entirely closed to the public as well.
Waukee closures and cancellations
Posted 3/16/2020
Two City of Waukee buildings are closed, and many City programs are now canceled following recent COVID-19 news and social distancing requirements. Here are the updated for March 16:
Building Closures
The Waukee Public Library and the Waukee Public Works Building are now closed to the public until further notice. The Parks & Recreation Department is housed in the Public Works Building. These departments have many online options. Learn more here.
Program and Event Cancelations
Two City of Waukee buildings are closed, and many City programs are now canceled following recent COVID-19 news and social distancing requirements. Here are the updated for March 16:
Building Closures
The Waukee Public Library and the Waukee Public Works Building are now closed to the public until further notice. The Parks & Recreation Department is housed in the Public Works Building. These departments have many online options. Learn more here.
Program and Event Cancelations
-
Waukee Parks & Recreation, 515-978-0007
- All Parks & Recreation facility rentals are canceled through April 12.
- All recreational programming is canceled or postponed through April 12. Look for emails related to your respective programs.
- The start of the Girls Softball League is postponed until April 13.
- All public ball fields are closed.
- The seasonal opening of public restrooms in parks will be delayed.
- Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course - Golf Course staff will be taking additional cleaning measures and will be encouraging visitors to alternate turns entering the Clubhouse. Staff will be monitoring weather conditions as usual. Check here for updates.
- Trailside Dog Park - The dog park will remain open at this time, however, staff will be increasing the frequency of sanitizing gates and keypads.
- Cancellation of the Easter Egg Hunt, scheduled for April 11, is still being considered.
-
Waukee Police Department, 515-978-7979
- The WASP Senior Luncheon scheduled for March 26 in canceled.
- The department's public fingerprinting service has been suspended.
-
Waukee Public Library, 515-978-7944
- All in-person events and programs are canceled until further notice.
Waukee Library closed amid COVID-19 concerns
Posted 3/16/2020
The Waukee Public Library is closed out of consideration for the health of the community. Please hold onto any due materials or drop them in the book drop on the south side of the library. All fines and due dates will be suspended. There is no need to contact the library to renew items; they will be automatically renewed. Cardholders can access many of resources online. Thank you for your patience as library staff works to ensure the safety of the community, staff and library patrons. Please check social media and the website for more ways to use the library online and to see future notifications.
The Waukee Public Library is closed out of consideration for the health of the community. Please hold onto any due materials or drop them in the book drop on the south side of the library. All fines and due dates will be suspended. There is no need to contact the library to renew items; they will be automatically renewed. Cardholders can access many of resources online. Thank you for your patience as library staff works to ensure the safety of the community, staff and library patrons. Please check social media and the website for more ways to use the library online and to see future notifications.
Waukee Celebrates Gas Utility Workers’ Day
Posted 3/16/2020
The City of Waukee will observe the national Gas Utility Workers’ Day on Wednesday, March 18. This day of national recognition is a time when communities such as ours give recognition to the employees who provide one of their most valuable assets—their natural gas utility. The City of Waukee owns and operates the Gas Utility which serves 7,460 accounts with approximately 131 miles of gas main.
The official Gas Utility Workers’ Day is March 18 because that is the date of the New London, Texas school explosion in 1937 that led to the widespread odorization of natural gas and an increased emphasis on safety. Safety is a vital aspect to natural gas distribution and the gas employees endeavor to make natural gas delivery as safe as possible.
This annual nationwide event is intended to build public awareness about the hard work done by the employees of natural gas utilities. Our customers recognize the need to access reliable, affordable, safe energy and depend on the service of natural gas utility employees for that need. The City of Waukee looks forward to continuing to bring safe, reliable natural gas into your homes and businesses. For more information about natural gas and safety, visit the Gas Department webpage. And, as always – if you smell natural gas, call the 24-hour line at 515-249-1212.
The City of Waukee will observe the national Gas Utility Workers’ Day on Wednesday, March 18. This day of national recognition is a time when communities such as ours give recognition to the employees who provide one of their most valuable assets—their natural gas utility. The City of Waukee owns and operates the Gas Utility which serves 7,460 accounts with approximately 131 miles of gas main.
The official Gas Utility Workers’ Day is March 18 because that is the date of the New London, Texas school explosion in 1937 that led to the widespread odorization of natural gas and an increased emphasis on safety. Safety is a vital aspect to natural gas distribution and the gas employees endeavor to make natural gas delivery as safe as possible.
This annual nationwide event is intended to build public awareness about the hard work done by the employees of natural gas utilities. Our customers recognize the need to access reliable, affordable, safe energy and depend on the service of natural gas utility employees for that need. The City of Waukee looks forward to continuing to bring safe, reliable natural gas into your homes and businesses. For more information about natural gas and safety, visit the Gas Department webpage. And, as always – if you smell natural gas, call the 24-hour line at 515-249-1212.
2020 district boundary process
Posted 3/13/2020
At the Waukee School Board of Education meeting on March 9, priorities were set for the next boundary process as the district continues to grow and plans for its 10th elementary school, Sugar Creek Elementary, in 2022. The changes to boundaries in this process will go into effect for the 2022-23 school year. Any students entering secondary grades (sixth-ninth grades) have the option to attend the building in which they will be set to attend in 2022 anytime prior (August 2020 or August 2021) should they choose to do so. The district will also provide transportation to those buildings prior to 2022.
Board approved boundary priorities:
• Whenever possible, keep neighborhoods intact (defined as RSP planning areas).
• Balance enrollment with the capacity of the school, and to the extent possible, not add additional fiscal costs for buildings or staffing.
• Balance demographics, to the extent possible, for general similarity between schools. For areas in which that is especially challenging, be prepared to determine equitable resource allocations.
• Anticipate the future growth of neighborhoods and work to allow areas of high growth to grow into the capacity of the school.
• Consider boundary lines that follow natural/man-made boundaries
Guided by feedback from the participants in the last boundary process, this plan is designed to be even more inclusive than previous boundary discussions. Specifically, the district is hosting open houses at five elementary buildings. These open houses are aimed to provide an opportunity for the community, parents, and students to view boundary map options and provide fedback for consideration by the board, senior leadership team and principals from elementary schools that are impacted.
The district’s plan is to provide an opportunity for feedback from the community, staff and students. At this time the district is looking at ways to do so. This will either be in person in an open house-style format or via an online survey.
At the Waukee School Board of Education meeting on March 9, priorities were set for the next boundary process as the district continues to grow and plans for its 10th elementary school, Sugar Creek Elementary, in 2022. The changes to boundaries in this process will go into effect for the 2022-23 school year. Any students entering secondary grades (sixth-ninth grades) have the option to attend the building in which they will be set to attend in 2022 anytime prior (August 2020 or August 2021) should they choose to do so. The district will also provide transportation to those buildings prior to 2022.
Board approved boundary priorities:
• Whenever possible, keep neighborhoods intact (defined as RSP planning areas).
• Balance enrollment with the capacity of the school, and to the extent possible, not add additional fiscal costs for buildings or staffing.
• Balance demographics, to the extent possible, for general similarity between schools. For areas in which that is especially challenging, be prepared to determine equitable resource allocations.
• Anticipate the future growth of neighborhoods and work to allow areas of high growth to grow into the capacity of the school.
• Consider boundary lines that follow natural/man-made boundaries
Guided by feedback from the participants in the last boundary process, this plan is designed to be even more inclusive than previous boundary discussions. Specifically, the district is hosting open houses at five elementary buildings. These open houses are aimed to provide an opportunity for the community, parents, and students to view boundary map options and provide fedback for consideration by the board, senior leadership team and principals from elementary schools that are impacted.
The district’s plan is to provide an opportunity for feedback from the community, staff and students. At this time the district is looking at ways to do so. This will either be in person in an open house-style format or via an online survey.
Warrior girls are state runner up
Posted 3/13/2020
The Waukee High School Girls Basketball team finished the 2019-2020 season with a postseason run that culminated in a state championship battle with Johnston that came down to the final minute. Johnston defeated Waukee to claim the 5A state championship.
Waukee qualified for the state tournament with a 58-35 regional final victory over Ames. The top-ranked Warriors rolled over Sioux City East in the quarter-final round of the state tournament by a score of 76-36 before defeating fifth-ranked Waterloo West 88-65 in the semi-finals. Waukee hit 15 three-point baskets to break the state tournament record for three-point baskets made in a game. In the championship game, Waukee erased an early 14 point deficit and took a three-point fourth-quarter lead before falling 69-65 to claim the runner-up trophy.
It was the Warriors 13th state tournament appearance in the last 14 years. Waukee won the state championship in 2015.
The Waukee High School Girls Basketball team finished the 2019-2020 season with a postseason run that culminated in a state championship battle with Johnston that came down to the final minute. Johnston defeated Waukee to claim the 5A state championship.
Waukee qualified for the state tournament with a 58-35 regional final victory over Ames. The top-ranked Warriors rolled over Sioux City East in the quarter-final round of the state tournament by a score of 76-36 before defeating fifth-ranked Waterloo West 88-65 in the semi-finals. Waukee hit 15 three-point baskets to break the state tournament record for three-point baskets made in a game. In the championship game, Waukee erased an early 14 point deficit and took a three-point fourth-quarter lead before falling 69-65 to claim the runner-up trophy.
It was the Warriors 13th state tournament appearance in the last 14 years. Waukee won the state championship in 2015.
Visitor restrictions now in effect at area hospitals
Posted 3/13/2020
To protect patients, families and health care workers during the global outbreak of COVID-19 the following visitor restrictions are being implemented at the Dallas County Hospital in Perry and all Des Moines area hospitals. Effective immediately the following temporary visitor restrictions will be implemented.
Only primary caregivers are allowed. Primary caregivers include, but are not limited to:
• Parents/stepparents
• Spouse/significant other
• Other defined caregiver
Primary caregivers:
• 16 years of age and older (including sibling caregivers)
• Siblings are not allowed unless 16 years of age and defined caregiver
• Always remain in patient room as appropriate
• Limit movement within the facility and avoid common areas
• Free from illness such as fever, sore throat, cough, diarrhea, vomiting or runny nose
• Exceptions may be made in certain situations and can be discussed with patient care teams.
Visitor restrictions are temporary and subject to change as necessary
All caregivers are required to wash hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand foam/gel upon entering and exiting patient’s room.
The hospital staff understands these visitor restrictions may be difficult. While the hospitals are committed to providing a family-centered care environment, right now restricting visitors is in the best interest of patients and staff.
To protect patients, families and health care workers during the global outbreak of COVID-19 the following visitor restrictions are being implemented at the Dallas County Hospital in Perry and all Des Moines area hospitals. Effective immediately the following temporary visitor restrictions will be implemented.
Only primary caregivers are allowed. Primary caregivers include, but are not limited to:
• Parents/stepparents
• Spouse/significant other
• Other defined caregiver
Primary caregivers:
• 16 years of age and older (including sibling caregivers)
• Siblings are not allowed unless 16 years of age and defined caregiver
• Always remain in patient room as appropriate
• Limit movement within the facility and avoid common areas
• Free from illness such as fever, sore throat, cough, diarrhea, vomiting or runny nose
• Exceptions may be made in certain situations and can be discussed with patient care teams.
Visitor restrictions are temporary and subject to change as necessary
All caregivers are required to wash hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand foam/gel upon entering and exiting patient’s room.
The hospital staff understands these visitor restrictions may be difficult. While the hospitals are committed to providing a family-centered care environment, right now restricting visitors is in the best interest of patients and staff.
Enter Waukee Parks & Rec’s Easter Coloring Contest
Posted 3/6/2020
Help the Waukee Parks & Recreation Department spread some Easter cheer around the Downtown Triangle by participating in the annual Easter coloring contest.
The 2020 coloring pages and entry form can be downloaded at www.waukee.org/civicalerts. Entry forms must be returned with coloring pages.
Entries can be dropped off at the Waukee Public Works Building, 805 University Ave. on weekdays between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. There is also a drop box by the front door for after-hours submissions. Or, mail entries to:
Waukee Parks & Recreation Department
Attn: Melissa Stotz
805 University Ave.
Waukee, IA 50263
A winner for each category will be announced at the Easter egg hunt on Saturday, April 11, and winners will receive an Easter basket filled with goodies including a sweet treat from Nothing Bundt Cakes plus a monthly punch card for a free cake.
Coloring pages will be displayed at Waukee Hardware Store, Charter Bank and Heartland Co-op.
Help the Waukee Parks & Recreation Department spread some Easter cheer around the Downtown Triangle by participating in the annual Easter coloring contest.
The 2020 coloring pages and entry form can be downloaded at www.waukee.org/civicalerts. Entry forms must be returned with coloring pages.
Entries can be dropped off at the Waukee Public Works Building, 805 University Ave. on weekdays between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. There is also a drop box by the front door for after-hours submissions. Or, mail entries to:
Waukee Parks & Recreation Department
Attn: Melissa Stotz
805 University Ave.
Waukee, IA 50263
A winner for each category will be announced at the Easter egg hunt on Saturday, April 11, and winners will receive an Easter basket filled with goodies including a sweet treat from Nothing Bundt Cakes plus a monthly punch card for a free cake.
Coloring pages will be displayed at Waukee Hardware Store, Charter Bank and Heartland Co-op.
Register for Spring/Summer Parks & Recreation Programs
Posted 3/6/2020
The Waukee Parks & Recreation Department has a spring and summer filled with programs, activities, trips and festivals. Highlights include:
• Waukee’s popular festivals/events such as the April 11 Easter egg hunt, free Movies in the Park and the Independence Day Celebration
• Mini Sluggers T-Ball league and Parent/Child Blastball
• Youth camps including All-Star Sports, Art in the Park and Explore the Outdoors
• Youth education, cooking, tumbling and martial arts activities
• Special needs and adaptive sports activities
• Junior golf camps; both junior and adult golf lessons
• Adult sports and activities including slow-pitch softball, sand volleyball leagues and bingo
• Adult trips to the Iowa State Fair and to explore Midwest history in Omaha
New this year: Pickleball League and Summer Celebration day camp.
Online registration is now open. To register, and to view the program guide online, visit www.waukee.org/civicalerts.
The Waukee Parks & Recreation Department has a spring and summer filled with programs, activities, trips and festivals. Highlights include:
• Waukee’s popular festivals/events such as the April 11 Easter egg hunt, free Movies in the Park and the Independence Day Celebration
• Mini Sluggers T-Ball league and Parent/Child Blastball
• Youth camps including All-Star Sports, Art in the Park and Explore the Outdoors
• Youth education, cooking, tumbling and martial arts activities
• Special needs and adaptive sports activities
• Junior golf camps; both junior and adult golf lessons
• Adult sports and activities including slow-pitch softball, sand volleyball leagues and bingo
• Adult trips to the Iowa State Fair and to explore Midwest history in Omaha
New this year: Pickleball League and Summer Celebration day camp.
Online registration is now open. To register, and to view the program guide online, visit www.waukee.org/civicalerts.
Funeral notice
Posted 3/6/2020
Alice (Hobart) Montis 87, from Saint Petersburg, Florida, formerly of Waukee, passed away Jan. 26 at home. Committal services were held Feb. 7 at Resthaven Cemetery with burial that day.
Alice (Hobart) Montis 87, from Saint Petersburg, Florida, formerly of Waukee, passed away Jan. 26 at home. Committal services were held Feb. 7 at Resthaven Cemetery with burial that day.
Waukee Cemetery Cleanup ongoing through March 15
Posted 3/6/2020
The Waukee Cemetery’s semi-annual cleanup is going on now through March 15. All ornaments, flowers and other items will be removed during this time. Contact Kathleen Cady at 515-979-9841 with any questions.
The Waukee Cemetery’s semi-annual cleanup is going on now through March 15. All ornaments, flowers and other items will be removed during this time. Contact Kathleen Cady at 515-979-9841 with any questions.
March 16 City Council meeting moved to March 23
Posted 3/6/2020
Due to scheduling challenges, the previously scheduled March 16 City Council meeting will be held on Monday, March 23 at 5:30 p.m. at Waukee City Hall.
Due to scheduling challenges, the previously scheduled March 16 City Council meeting will be held on Monday, March 23 at 5:30 p.m. at Waukee City Hall.
Alice’s Spaghettiland dinner is March 29
Posted 3/6/2020
The annual Waukee Historical Society’s Alice’s Spaghettiland Dinner brings back Alice Nizzi’s famous spaghetti recipe for one night only on Sunday, March 29. The dinner will be held at St. Boniface Catholic Church, 1200 S. Warrior Lane, 5-7 p.m. Dinner includes spaghetti, salad, bread, dessert and drinks.
Tickets are available online at www.waukeehistory.org or in person at Waukee Hardware & Rent-it Center, Waukee Public Library, Echo’s Cookies and Jane and friends Salon Waukee. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for children and $21 for to-go meals.
The annual Waukee Historical Society’s Alice’s Spaghettiland Dinner brings back Alice Nizzi’s famous spaghetti recipe for one night only on Sunday, March 29. The dinner will be held at St. Boniface Catholic Church, 1200 S. Warrior Lane, 5-7 p.m. Dinner includes spaghetti, salad, bread, dessert and drinks.
Tickets are available online at www.waukeehistory.org or in person at Waukee Hardware & Rent-it Center, Waukee Public Library, Echo’s Cookies and Jane and friends Salon Waukee. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for children and $21 for to-go meals.
Waukee Police Department hiring officers
Posted 3/6/2020
The Waukee Police Department is accepting applications for new and certified officers. Waukee police officers protect life and property in the City of Waukee through law enforcement and crime prevention.
Apply online at www.waukee.org/civil alerts by Wednesday, March 25. Mandatory testing for applicants will take place Saturday, April 18.
The Waukee Police Department is accepting applications for new and certified officers. Waukee police officers protect life and property in the City of Waukee through law enforcement and crime prevention.
Apply online at www.waukee.org/civil alerts by Wednesday, March 25. Mandatory testing for applicants will take place Saturday, April 18.
Dallas County Health Department advises residents on spring break travel
Posted 3/3/2020
Dallas County Health Department continues to work with the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state and local partners to monitor and respond to novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The virus was first detected in Wuhan, China in December 2019, and has since been detected in other parts of the world, including the U.S.
As spring break nears, many Iowans are making travel preparations. IDPH and Dallas County Health Department remind vacationers to make protecting their health part of their plans. Whether traveling to a sunny beach, a ski resort or enjoying a staycation, take time to learn about and prepare for health concerns.
Across the country, the greatest health risk to Dallas County residents is from influenza; however, it is appropriate to take precautions against the COVID-19 virus.
“The prevention for COVID-19 is similar to how you protect yourself from a variety of viruses, like influenza,” said Dallas County Health Department Director Suzanne Hegarty. “Cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands frequently, and stay home from work or vacation when ill.”
The Dallas County Health Department continues to learn more about COVID-19 as the response progresses. Most often, person-to-person spread is thought to happen among people in close contact (about 6 feet) with each other. This spread is believed to occur when an infected person coughs or sneezes and droplets land on another person’s nose or mouth. Therefore, when at home or traveling, it is important to avoid being near people who are visibly ill. Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, coughing and shortness of breath.
Dallas County Health Department continues to work with the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state and local partners to monitor and respond to novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The virus was first detected in Wuhan, China in December 2019, and has since been detected in other parts of the world, including the U.S.
As spring break nears, many Iowans are making travel preparations. IDPH and Dallas County Health Department remind vacationers to make protecting their health part of their plans. Whether traveling to a sunny beach, a ski resort or enjoying a staycation, take time to learn about and prepare for health concerns.
Across the country, the greatest health risk to Dallas County residents is from influenza; however, it is appropriate to take precautions against the COVID-19 virus.
“The prevention for COVID-19 is similar to how you protect yourself from a variety of viruses, like influenza,” said Dallas County Health Department Director Suzanne Hegarty. “Cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands frequently, and stay home from work or vacation when ill.”
The Dallas County Health Department continues to learn more about COVID-19 as the response progresses. Most often, person-to-person spread is thought to happen among people in close contact (about 6 feet) with each other. This spread is believed to occur when an infected person coughs or sneezes and droplets land on another person’s nose or mouth. Therefore, when at home or traveling, it is important to avoid being near people who are visibly ill. Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, coughing and shortness of breath.
Parks & Rec Department recognizes
volunteers and supporters
Posted 3/3/2020
The Waukee Parks & Recreation Department recently recognized a long list of volunteers and community supporters who help make the department’s programs and initiatives successful.The 2019 honorees were:
• Youth volunteer: Riley Taylor volunteered at various department festivals and events. She handed out eggs and candy at the annual Easter Egg Hunt, helped kids learn about safety during Home Alone Awareness Camp, and served cookies and hot cocoa at WinterFest.
• Special events volunteer: Cameron Stotz has spent years capturing photos and videos of Waukee facilities, parks, special events and the Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course during all seasons.
• Service group: Hilltop Church members, led by Pastor Brandon Beaman and Katie Beaman, volunteered serving free popcorn and water to Movies in the Park attendees. They will keep up with this tradition in 2020 as well.
• Business group: NCMIC has been a sponsor of the Movies in the Park series for two years now, allowing seven moves to be screened for free in Centennial Park. They will be sponsoring the 2020 series as well, which will include four movies.
Youth sports volunteers:
• Ryan Clayton coached a total of 26 softball and T-ball teams from 2009-2019. He coached more than 275 players and often coached two teams in different divisions in the same season.
• Joel Romey coached a total of 17 softball teams from 2009-2019. He coached more than 200 players and was instrumental in the creation of the fall girls softball league in 2012.
The department would also like to thank these businesses, organizations and volunteers who help make Waukee more fun: MidAmerican Energy Company, mi-fiber.net, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Central Bank, Autumn Ridge Apartments, Waukee Downtown Businesses, Stivers Ford Lincoln, Companions for Life, Charter Bank, Grace Baptist of Waukee, Waukee APEX, Boy Scout Troop 178, Jerry C., Renae and Ben H., Erin Y., Beth E., Sarah S., Shane B., Erin C., Preston and Damon P., Jamie H., Matt H., Madeline H., Asher H., Kia P., Sarah N., Aubrey V., Samantha F., Laura F., Madison A., Addy J., Ava L., Ellie W., Morgan B., Aniston C., July E., Gabe P., Haley H., Jenna O,. Hayden P., Leah L. and Ava H.
The Waukee Parks & Recreation Department recently recognized a long list of volunteers and community supporters who help make the department’s programs and initiatives successful.The 2019 honorees were:
• Youth volunteer: Riley Taylor volunteered at various department festivals and events. She handed out eggs and candy at the annual Easter Egg Hunt, helped kids learn about safety during Home Alone Awareness Camp, and served cookies and hot cocoa at WinterFest.
• Special events volunteer: Cameron Stotz has spent years capturing photos and videos of Waukee facilities, parks, special events and the Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course during all seasons.
• Service group: Hilltop Church members, led by Pastor Brandon Beaman and Katie Beaman, volunteered serving free popcorn and water to Movies in the Park attendees. They will keep up with this tradition in 2020 as well.
• Business group: NCMIC has been a sponsor of the Movies in the Park series for two years now, allowing seven moves to be screened for free in Centennial Park. They will be sponsoring the 2020 series as well, which will include four movies.
Youth sports volunteers:
• Ryan Clayton coached a total of 26 softball and T-ball teams from 2009-2019. He coached more than 275 players and often coached two teams in different divisions in the same season.
• Joel Romey coached a total of 17 softball teams from 2009-2019. He coached more than 200 players and was instrumental in the creation of the fall girls softball league in 2012.
The department would also like to thank these businesses, organizations and volunteers who help make Waukee more fun: MidAmerican Energy Company, mi-fiber.net, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Central Bank, Autumn Ridge Apartments, Waukee Downtown Businesses, Stivers Ford Lincoln, Companions for Life, Charter Bank, Grace Baptist of Waukee, Waukee APEX, Boy Scout Troop 178, Jerry C., Renae and Ben H., Erin Y., Beth E., Sarah S., Shane B., Erin C., Preston and Damon P., Jamie H., Matt H., Madeline H., Asher H., Kia P., Sarah N., Aubrey V., Samantha F., Laura F., Madison A., Addy J., Ava L., Ellie W., Morgan B., Aniston C., July E., Gabe P., Haley H., Jenna O,. Hayden P., Leah L. and Ava H.
Parks & Rec Department recognizes
volunteers and supporters
Posted 3/3/2020
The Waukee Parks & Recreation Department recently recognized a long list of volunteers and community supporters who help make the department’s programs and initiatives successful.The 2019 honorees were:
• Youth volunteer: Riley Taylor volunteered at various department festivals and events. She handed out eggs and candy at the annual Easter Egg Hunt, helped kids learn about safety during Home Alone Awareness Camp, and served cookies and hot cocoa at WinterFest.
• Special events volunteer: Cameron Stotz has spent years capturing photos and videos of Waukee facilities, parks, special events and the Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course during all seasons.
• Service group: Hilltop Church members, led by Pastor Brandon Beaman and Katie Beaman, volunteered serving free popcorn and water to Movies in the Park attendees. They will keep up with this tradition in 2020 as well.
• Business group: NCMIC has been a sponsor of the Movies in the Park series for two years now, allowing seven moves to be screened for free in Centennial Park. They will be sponsoring the 2020 series as well, which will include four movies.
Youth sports volunteers:
• Ryan Clayton coached a total of 26 softball and T-ball teams from 2009-2019. He coached more than 275 players and often coached two teams in different divisions in the same season.
• Joel Romey coached a total of 17 softball teams from 2009-2019. He coached more than 200 players and was instrumental in the creation of the fall girls softball league in 2012.
The department would also like to thank these businesses, organizations and volunteers who help make Waukee more fun: MidAmerican Energy Company, mi-fiber.net, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Central Bank, Autumn Ridge Apartments, Waukee Downtown Businesses, Stivers Ford Lincoln, Companions for Life, Charter Bank, Grace Baptist of Waukee, Waukee APEX, Boy Scout Troop 178, Jerry C., Renae and Ben H., Erin Y., Beth E., Sarah S., Shane B., Erin C., Preston and Damon P., Jamie H., Matt H., Madeline H., Asher H., Kia P., Sarah N., Aubrey V., Samantha F., Laura F., Madison A., Addy J., Ava L., Ellie W., Morgan B., Aniston C., July E., Gabe P., Haley H., Jenna O,. Hayden P., Leah L. and Ava H.
The Waukee Parks & Recreation Department recently recognized a long list of volunteers and community supporters who help make the department’s programs and initiatives successful.The 2019 honorees were:
• Youth volunteer: Riley Taylor volunteered at various department festivals and events. She handed out eggs and candy at the annual Easter Egg Hunt, helped kids learn about safety during Home Alone Awareness Camp, and served cookies and hot cocoa at WinterFest.
• Special events volunteer: Cameron Stotz has spent years capturing photos and videos of Waukee facilities, parks, special events and the Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course during all seasons.
• Service group: Hilltop Church members, led by Pastor Brandon Beaman and Katie Beaman, volunteered serving free popcorn and water to Movies in the Park attendees. They will keep up with this tradition in 2020 as well.
• Business group: NCMIC has been a sponsor of the Movies in the Park series for two years now, allowing seven moves to be screened for free in Centennial Park. They will be sponsoring the 2020 series as well, which will include four movies.
Youth sports volunteers:
• Ryan Clayton coached a total of 26 softball and T-ball teams from 2009-2019. He coached more than 275 players and often coached two teams in different divisions in the same season.
• Joel Romey coached a total of 17 softball teams from 2009-2019. He coached more than 200 players and was instrumental in the creation of the fall girls softball league in 2012.
The department would also like to thank these businesses, organizations and volunteers who help make Waukee more fun: MidAmerican Energy Company, mi-fiber.net, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Central Bank, Autumn Ridge Apartments, Waukee Downtown Businesses, Stivers Ford Lincoln, Companions for Life, Charter Bank, Grace Baptist of Waukee, Waukee APEX, Boy Scout Troop 178, Jerry C., Renae and Ben H., Erin Y., Beth E., Sarah S., Shane B., Erin C., Preston and Damon P., Jamie H., Matt H., Madeline H., Asher H., Kia P., Sarah N., Aubrey V., Samantha F., Laura F., Madison A., Addy J., Ava L., Ellie W., Morgan B., Aniston C., July E., Gabe P., Haley H., Jenna O,. Hayden P., Leah L. and Ava H.
Intermittent lane closures expected on Ashworth Road
Posted 3/3/2020
Due to the installation of the Bluestem Trunk Sewer Phase I intermittent westbound lane closures will happen on Ashworth between LA Grant and R-22. The project, which began Feb. 24, is expected to last approximately four weeks. Through traffic will be maintained using flaggers, and lane closures will be limited to the hours of 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Due to the installation of the Bluestem Trunk Sewer Phase I intermittent westbound lane closures will happen on Ashworth between LA Grant and R-22. The project, which began Feb. 24, is expected to last approximately four weeks. Through traffic will be maintained using flaggers, and lane closures will be limited to the hours of 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Funeral notice
Posted 3/3/2020
Kathryn Llewellyn, 91, of Waukee, died Thursday, Feb. 20. Visitation will be held Friday, Feb. 28 from 5-7 p.m. at the Iles-Brandt Chapel in Dallas Center. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29 at the Waukee Christian Church.
Kathryn Llewellyn, 91, of Waukee, died Thursday, Feb. 20. Visitation will be held Friday, Feb. 28 from 5-7 p.m. at the Iles-Brandt Chapel in Dallas Center. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29 at the Waukee Christian Church.
Applications now accepted for youth leadership initiative class of 2021
Posted 3/3/2020
The Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute announces that applications are currently being accepted for the Youth Leadership Initiative Class of 2021.
Soon-to-be high school sophomores and juniors are invited to apply for the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute’s Youth Leadership Initiative (YLI). YLI provides students from public and private high schools with experiential learning and leadership opportunities that enhance self-esteem and encourage involvement in all levels of community life. Students who participate in this tuition-free program meet twice monthly between August and May.
This program seeks students with plenty of room to grow. Participants who gain the most from YLI are:
• Eager to learn about their community and how they can shape its future.
• Enthusiastic about building professional skills and gaining exposure to possible career paths.
• Open to exploring their leadership potential.
• Sincere about forming connections with fellow students and mentors.
• Eager to gain confidence.
Applications will be accepted until April 22. Current freshman and sophomore students who are interested in applying should review the program website, www.gdmli.com/yli, prior to completing the application. YLI is sponsored by the Greater Des Moines Partnership.
The Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute announces that applications are currently being accepted for the Youth Leadership Initiative Class of 2021.
Soon-to-be high school sophomores and juniors are invited to apply for the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute’s Youth Leadership Initiative (YLI). YLI provides students from public and private high schools with experiential learning and leadership opportunities that enhance self-esteem and encourage involvement in all levels of community life. Students who participate in this tuition-free program meet twice monthly between August and May.
This program seeks students with plenty of room to grow. Participants who gain the most from YLI are:
• Eager to learn about their community and how they can shape its future.
• Enthusiastic about building professional skills and gaining exposure to possible career paths.
• Open to exploring their leadership potential.
• Sincere about forming connections with fellow students and mentors.
• Eager to gain confidence.
Applications will be accepted until April 22. Current freshman and sophomore students who are interested in applying should review the program website, www.gdmli.com/yli, prior to completing the application. YLI is sponsored by the Greater Des Moines Partnership.
Winter thaw results in potholes
Posted 3/3/2020
Waukee drivers may have noticed that post-thaw potholes are back as the community thaws and refreezes. The amount of moisture on the ground in January and February allowed moisture to seep into cracks, and the freeze-thaw cycle broke pavement in all parts of the city. When traffic passes over the damaged pavement, the paving comes up and creates those “potholes” we all know and loathe.
The Waukee Public Works Department has two pothole patching units deployed; they target the largest potholes on main roads first. They work their way around from arterial streets to collectors and then to the neighborhoods. It will take several trips through the city to fill all potholes, especially if rain or snows occurs.
Freezing night temps are still creating new breaks, but crews are working hard when they can.
To report a pothole, visit the Report a Concern module at www.waukee.org. A website account is required in order to use the module.
Waukee drivers may have noticed that post-thaw potholes are back as the community thaws and refreezes. The amount of moisture on the ground in January and February allowed moisture to seep into cracks, and the freeze-thaw cycle broke pavement in all parts of the city. When traffic passes over the damaged pavement, the paving comes up and creates those “potholes” we all know and loathe.
The Waukee Public Works Department has two pothole patching units deployed; they target the largest potholes on main roads first. They work their way around from arterial streets to collectors and then to the neighborhoods. It will take several trips through the city to fill all potholes, especially if rain or snows occurs.
Freezing night temps are still creating new breaks, but crews are working hard when they can.
To report a pothole, visit the Report a Concern module at www.waukee.org. A website account is required in order to use the module.
Waukee Police seeking Safe House Program participants
Posted 3/3/2020
Waukee Safe House volunteers are concerned citizens who have demonstrated a desire to accept a shared responsibility for the well-being of children in their neighborhoods. Designated “Safe Houses” are identified by a Safe House sticker in an easily seen location such as a front door or window so that children know the home is a safe place to seek safety.
The volunteers for this program are screened by the Waukee Police Department to make sure that they will provide a safe environment and understand the responsibilities of participating in the Safe House initiative. Participants are asked to take children into their home or business and notify police of the issue.
To see the requirements of becoming a designated Safe House and complete an application, visit www.waukee.org under the Departments tab, then choose Police.
Waukee Safe House volunteers are concerned citizens who have demonstrated a desire to accept a shared responsibility for the well-being of children in their neighborhoods. Designated “Safe Houses” are identified by a Safe House sticker in an easily seen location such as a front door or window so that children know the home is a safe place to seek safety.
The volunteers for this program are screened by the Waukee Police Department to make sure that they will provide a safe environment and understand the responsibilities of participating in the Safe House initiative. Participants are asked to take children into their home or business and notify police of the issue.
To see the requirements of becoming a designated Safe House and complete an application, visit www.waukee.org under the Departments tab, then choose Police.
Ben Sinclair appointed to City Council
Posted 2/24/2020
Ben Sinclair was appointed to the Waukee City Council following a special application and interview process. He also received the third most votes in November’s city council race. Sinclair was sworn in to office by City Clerk Becky Schuett at the Tuesday, Feb. 18 city council meeting. He will fulfill the remainder of Mayor Courtney Clarke’s previous Waukee City Council term, ending Dec. 31, 2021.
Sinclair, a software engineer, is a West Des Moines native. He and his family have lived in Waukee for 10 years.
The Waukee City Council is made up of five at-large members, and regular meetings are held the first and third Mondays of each month at City Hall at 5:30 p.m.
Ben Sinclair was appointed to the Waukee City Council following a special application and interview process. He also received the third most votes in November’s city council race. Sinclair was sworn in to office by City Clerk Becky Schuett at the Tuesday, Feb. 18 city council meeting. He will fulfill the remainder of Mayor Courtney Clarke’s previous Waukee City Council term, ending Dec. 31, 2021.
Sinclair, a software engineer, is a West Des Moines native. He and his family have lived in Waukee for 10 years.
The Waukee City Council is made up of five at-large members, and regular meetings are held the first and third Mondays of each month at City Hall at 5:30 p.m.
Safety City Registration Opens March 1
Posted 2/24/2020
Incoming Waukee Community School District kindergarten students can participate in the Waukee Police Department’s annual Safety City program. Attendees will learn about safety from officers and volunteers during this week-long course. Online-only registration is available beginning March 1 at 8 a.m. at www.Waukee.org/
registration under “Youth Camps & Activities.”
A miniature city will be used to teach students correct street crossing techniques along with vehicle safety by using tricycles as automobiles. Safety City will also include lessons on bullying, pedestrian rules, street crossing, traffic lights, Waukee Safe House Program, window safety, poisons and drug abuse, bus rules, calling 911, fire safety, respect for authority, seatbelts and bike safety
The cost of the program is $50 per student; participants receive a new bicycle helmet and a T-shirt. Students also get to ride a school bus and tour the Waukee Public Safety Building.
2020 Safety City Sessions:
Incoming Waukee Community School District kindergarten students can participate in the Waukee Police Department’s annual Safety City program. Attendees will learn about safety from officers and volunteers during this week-long course. Online-only registration is available beginning March 1 at 8 a.m. at www.Waukee.org/
registration under “Youth Camps & Activities.”
A miniature city will be used to teach students correct street crossing techniques along with vehicle safety by using tricycles as automobiles. Safety City will also include lessons on bullying, pedestrian rules, street crossing, traffic lights, Waukee Safe House Program, window safety, poisons and drug abuse, bus rules, calling 911, fire safety, respect for authority, seatbelts and bike safety
The cost of the program is $50 per student; participants receive a new bicycle helmet and a T-shirt. Students also get to ride a school bus and tour the Waukee Public Safety Building.
2020 Safety City Sessions:
- Session 1: June 8-12, 9-11:30 a.m.• Session 2: June 8-12, 1-3:30 p.m.
- Session 3: June 15-19, 9-11:30 a.m.
- Session 4: June 15-19, 1-3:30 p.m.
- Session 5: June 22-26, 9-11:30 a.m.
- Session 6: June 22-26, 1-3:30 p.m.