City of Ames’ Podcasts

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda sits down with John Haila to recap key discussions and decisions from the Tuesday, April 28 Ames City Council meeting.

Their conversation highlights important topics related to community growth and essential utility services. Susan and Mayor Haila walk through what was discussed, why it matters, and how these decisions impact residents across Ames.

In this episode, we discuss:

The proposed Baker Subdivision and what it means for future development in Ames

Updates and considerations related to the City’s water system

Sewer-related agenda items and ongoing infrastructure needs

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

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

Get involved:

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

Have a topic you would like us to cover in a future episode? Email [email protected]

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

With spring in full swing, it’s the perfect time to explore everything Ames parks have to offer. In this episode, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Parks Superintendent Joshua Thompson from Ames Parks and Recreation to talk about the work behind maintaining Ames’ park system, seasonal preparations, and exciting updates for the community.

Joshua shares insights into his role, what it takes to keep parks running smoothly during the busiest months, and highlights one of Ames’ most popular destinations, Ada Hayden Heritage Park. The conversation also covers a newly completed trail, updated usage guidelines, and tips for safely sharing park spaces with others.

Whether you’re a frequent park-goer or just looking for a reason to get outside, this episode offers a helpful look at how to make the most of Ames’ outdoor spaces.

Episode Highlights

Joshua Thompson’s path to becoming Parks Superintendent

Behind the scenes of managing Ames’ parks system

Spring and summer park preparation and maintenance

Spotlight on Ada Hayden Heritage Park and what makes it unique

Overview of the new trail addition and its benefits

Updated trail guidelines, including pedestrian and wheeled traffic lanes

Why trail etiquette and safety measures matter

Tips for respecting parks, nature, and fellow visitors

Programs, improvements, and hidden gems across Ames parks

Encouragement for residents to explore local outdoor spaces

Learn more about parks, trails, and programs: www.AmesParkRec.org

Ames’ parks offer something for everyone, whether it’s a quiet walk, time on the water, or exploring a new trail this season.

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

The meeting will take place on Tuesday, April 28, beginning at 6 p.m. in the Ames City Hall Council Chambers, located at 515 Clark Ave.

This episode highlights several agenda items that may be of interest to residents and the community. While it does not cover every topic, it offers a closer look at a few of the discussions Council will be considering and what they could mean for Ames.

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

In this episode, we discuss:

• Proclamations recognizing members of the community
• Infill zoning considerations in a South Campus neighborhood
• Plans for the Baker Subdivision

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

Have a question or topic you would like covered?

Are there agenda items or City Council topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode? Send us an email at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil

Important note

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

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

In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Mark Peebler, Resource Recovery Superintendent for the City of Ames, and Matt Bradner of Iowa Home Consulting to talk about Stash the Trash, a community-wide cleanup event that empowers residents to make a visible difference.

More than just picking up litter, Stash the Trash is about building community pride, strengthening partnerships, and supporting long-term sustainability efforts in Ames. With participation from individuals, families, and organizations, this annual event shows how simple actions can lead to meaningful impact.

Episode Highlights

What Stash the Trash is and how it got started

How the event encourages community stewardship and pride

The partnership between the City of Ames and Iowa Home Consulting

Event details, April 24–26, and how to participate

How volunteers can choose cleanup locations across the city

Supplies, support, and guidance available for participants

The environmental and community impact of the initiative

How efforts like this connect to broader waste management and sustainability goals

Opportunities for individuals, groups, and organizations to get involved

Event Details
Stash the Trash
🗓️ April 24–26
🌎 Locations throughout Ames

Participants can select a park, green space, or neighborhood area to clean, then bring collected materials to designated drop-off sites.

Learn more and sign up: www.stashthetrash.com

Why It Matters
Stash the Trash demonstrates how local action contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable community. By bringing together residents, businesses, and city resources, the event highlights the power of collaboration and reinforces the importance of responsible waste management.

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda sits down with Ames City Councilmember Anita Rollins, who is stepping in for Mayor John Haila, to recap key discussions and decisions from the Tuesday, April 14 Ames City Council meeting.

Their conversation highlights several important topics that impact infrastructure, long range planning, and utility services across the community. Susan and Councilmember Rollins break down what was discussed, why it matters, and how these decisions connect to the day to day lives of Ames residents.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Paving improvements planned for Freel Drive and what that means for the upcoming Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus
• The Planning and Housing Department workplan and how it will guide future growth and development in Ames
• Water and sewer rate adjustments

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

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

Get involved:

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

Have a topic you would like us to cover in a future episode?
Email [email protected]

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