A Change.org petition titled “Reinstate weekly trash pickup in Le Mars, Iowa” is gaining momentum. The petition, which has nearly 300 signatures, states that “bi-weekly trash collection has made daily life for residents far less pleasant”, and that a “return to weekly service will ensure our streets remain clean, our homes are free of health hazards, and our town retains its beloved charm.”
Mayor Rob Bixenman spoke to KLEM about the petition, saying he’s not surprised about the sentiment, which he once shared.
In 2011, City Council member John Rexwinkel tried to pass weekly garbage collection during a four-month window at a charge of $12 a month. The vote failed to pass, but Mayor Bixenman said that if there’s widespread support from the general public this time around, he doesn’t foresee much resistance for the proposed change.
The next scheduled Le Mars City Council Meeting will be October 6th.
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CAASA funding cut in Monona, Plymouth, Woodbury counties
The Centers Against Abuse and Sexual Assault (CAASA) has lost their state funding in Monona, Plymouth, and Woodbury counties. The Iowa Attorney General’s office provided SafePlace, a domestic-violence focused group, funding over CAASA.
On Tuesday, September 15th, Stephanie Henrich, the CAASA Executive Director, addressed the Plymouth County Board of Supervisors and thanked them for their continuous financial support over the years. KLEM then spoke to Henrich about how the budget cuts unfolded.
Henrich made clear that even though CAASA can no longer respond to sexual assaults in the cut counties, they are still available to help.
One thing that will remain the same is A Night of Hope, an evening in March that aims to lift up survivors.
CAASA is always open to giving and receiving help in a variety of ways.
