City of Ames’ Podcasts

• Ames in Focus: Waste Not, Want Better with Justin Clausen

  In this episode, host Bill Gebhart welcomes back Justin Clausen, now Director of Public Works, to talk trash and the exciting changes coming to Ames’ waste and recycling systems. From the end of waste-to-energy to the new Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus (R3C), get the inside scoop on how Ames is rethinking sustainability, curbside recycling, and what it means for your bin at the curb. Episode Highlights: Why Ames is phasing out its waste-to-energy model What the new R3C facility will offer, including composting, recycling, and landfill transfer What to expect from proposed curbside recycling, such as cart size, pickup schedule, accepted items, and added fees How the city plans to reduce landfill use and recover more materials How to provide feedback and help shape the future of waste management in Ames Fill out the Residential Curbside Recycling Survey and help shape Ames’ strategy: CityofAmes.org/ResourceRecovery   Enjoying the show? Subscribe to Ames in Focus wherever you listen to podcasts, leave us a review, and share this episode with a friend who cares about our community’s future.

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• Up Close: Donald Kom

  With Casandra Eames still on the mend, guest host Bill Gebhart returns—this time sitting down with Donald Kom for a lively conversation that spans electricity and entertainment. Donald shares how his love of a challenge led him to Ames and into a leadership role with the Ames Electric Department. From keeping the lights on to navigating the complexities of a growing community, Don reflects on what makes the work rewarding—and why Ames was the right fit. But there’s more to Don than public power. The conversation also turns to his creative side: his passion for theatre, and his unexpected adventures in television commercials and print ads. It’s an episode about leading with curiosity, serving with purpose, and not being afraid to step into the spotlight.   The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.   Want to Be On Up Close? Have a story to share? Reach out to Casandra Eames in the City Manager's Office or email [email protected] to be featured on a future episode.

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• Ames in Focus: One Last Push for the Ames Animal Shelter with Ron Edwards

  This week on Ames in Focus, we welcome back Ron Edwards, Animal Control Supervisor for the City of Ames, for an exciting update on the Ames Animal Shelter Capital Campaign. The project is nearing the finish line, with just $500,000 left to raise toward its $7.5 million goal. Ron shares how this expanded and modernized facility will improve medical care, animal housing, adoption spaces, and community engagement. He also explains how listeners can get involved, whether by donating, volunteering, or spreading the word. Learn more or contribute at AmesAnimalShelter.org. Subscribe to Ames in Focus wherever you get your podcasts, and leave us a review to help others find the show. Share this episode with your fellow animal lovers and community supporters.

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• Up Close: Bobby King

  With Casandra Eames out recovering from knee surgery, Bill Gebhart steps in to guest host a conversation that’s all about the pull of place—and what it means to return. Bobby King joins Bill to talk about his journey to Ames, what took him away, and why he ultimately came back. It’s a story about change—personal and communal—and how the "vibe" of a place can shift over time, sometimes in ways that surprise you. They also touch on Bobby’s work helping people find employment and what it’s like to support others through life transitions. But at its heart, this episode is about coming home—again—and seeing a familiar place through new eyes.   The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.   Want to Be On Up Close? Have a story to share? Reach out to Casandra Eames in the City Manager's Office or email [email protected] to be featured on a future episode.

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• Ames in Focus: Rebates, Rain Gardens, and Resilient Yards with Liz Calhoun

  In this episode of Ames in Focus, Liz Calhoun returns to share updates on the Smart Watersheds Rebate Program—a City of Ames initiative helping residents reduce stormwater flooding and improve water quality through practical, eco-friendly solutions. From rain barrels and composters to native landscaping and rain gardens, Liz and Bill break down the program's offerings, eligibility, and new online application process. Whether you're a homeowner, local business, or part of a neighborhood association, this episode explains how you can contribute to a more sustainable Ames—and get rewarded for it. What is the Smart Watersheds Rebate Program? A city-funded initiative (launched in 2009) that provides financial incentives for projects that manage stormwater and protect local water quality. Who’s Eligible? Homeowners, businesses, nonprofits, and HOAs within Ames city limits who pay a stormwater utility fee. Rebate-Eligible Projects Include: Rain barrels (up to $200) Composters (up to $100) Native trees ($100/tree, up to 2/year) Native landscaping (up to $400) Soil quality restoration (up to $400) Rain gardens (amount varies) Visit CityofAmes.org and click on Smart Watersheds to start your application and explore stormwater-smart options for your property.

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