City of Ames’ Podcasts

• Ames in Focus: Powering Forward with Curtis Spence

  In this episode of Ames in Focus, we're joined by Curtis Spence, Assistant Director of Ames Electric Services, to explore the future of energy in Ames. At the heart of our conversation is the Ames Energy Center, a major initiative designed to modernize the city’s electric infrastructure, improve reliability, and support sustainability goals. Curtis shares insights into the planning process, the reasons behind retiring aging infrastructure, and why RICE (Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engine) technology is key to the city’s next generation of power. He also discusses how Ames is thoughtfully integrating renewable energy, including wind and solar, and what steps are being taken to manage cost, reduce environmental impact, and engage the community throughout the process. Episode Highlights: Curtis’s background and role within Ames Electric Services Why the Ames Energy Center is a necessary and timely investment The planned retirement of Units 7 and 8 and what will replace them Benefits of RICE units: flexibility, efficiency, and readiness for renewable integration Project timeline from engineering in 2025 to operation in 2029 Long-term energy goals including 63 MW of wind and 26 MW of solar Balancing cost, reliability, and environmental responsibility How the City is addressing sound and infrastructure considerations To learn more about the Ames Energy Center and stay informed about upcoming projects, visit CityofAmes.org/Electric.

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• Up Close: Building Relationships with Casandra Eames

  It’s a five-Thursday month, which means it’s time for a special Up Close conversation with your host Casandra and Producer Bill! This is the first time Casandra and Bill have been on the pod together since Casandra was out recovering from knee surgery, and there’s a lot to catch up on. They talk about what it was like for Bill to guest host in her absence and reflect on what it means to step in when someone else needs a hand. From covering a podcast episode to offering support during a tough season, this conversation is all about showing up. Casandra and Bill share how acts of service, big or small, can deepen trust and build stronger connections within our community. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt, and occasionally humorous look at how relationships grow through shared responsibility and simple acts of kindness. 🎤 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: Rerouting for Safety with Tom Hackett

  In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart talks with Deputy Fire Chief Tom Hackett about the proposed relocation of Fire Station #2. The conversation comes just ahead of the public bond referendum on Tuesday, November 4. Tom shares how he got into public safety, explains the challenges at the current Campustown location, and outlines the benefits of moving to a new site on State Avenue. The episode breaks down what this project could mean for emergency response, long-term city planning, and the Ames community as a whole. Whether you have already made up your mind or are still considering your options, this episode offers important information about what the proposal involves and how it could shape the future of public safety in Ames. Episode Highlights: Reasons behind the proposed relocation of Fire Station #2 How the State Avenue site could improve emergency response times and coverage What the bond referendum means for taxpayers and how the funding would work The impact on firefighters, infrastructure, and city growth Resources for residents who want to learn more before voting Important Reminder: Election Day is Tuesday, November 4. Make sure your voice is heard by voting. To find your polling place, visit the Iowa Secretary of State’s website: sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterreg/pollingplace/search.aspx Learn More: To see project details and FAQs, visit: CityOfAmes.org/FireStation

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• Up Close: Zhengyuan Zhu, Jen Tipton, and Craig Kaufman

  In this special episode of Up Close, host Casandra Eames reunites her last three guests: Zhengyuan Zhu, Jen Tipton, and Craig Kaufman, for a roundtable conversation about community, connection, and the threads that tie their stories together. Though they come from different backgrounds and walks of life, Zhengyuan, Jen, and Craig quickly find common ground in their shared experiences. From raising kids in Ames to supporting local theater, each of them brings a unique perspective on what it means to belong. They also reflect on their hopes for deeper, more meaningful connections between long-time residents and Iowa State University students, offering thoughtful insights on how to build bridges across generations and communities. It is a warm, engaging, and often surprising conversation about how we are all more connected than we think. If you'd like to be featured on Up Close, contact Casandra Eames in the City Manager’s Office or email her at [email protected]. The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the views of the City of Ames or its employees.

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• Ames in Focus: Don't Let Winter Shut You Down with John Odenweller

  As colder weather rolls in, utility bills often rise, and that can pose real challenges for many Ames residents. In this episode, we're joined once again by John Odenweller, Utility Accounts Supervisor for the City of Ames, to break down the resources available to help households stay warm without breaking the bank. John explains how the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) works, who qualifies, and what documentation is needed to apply. He also shares what residents should do if they’ve already received a disconnection notice and highlights other forms of support available through the City. 🔑 Highlights What LIHEAP is and how it provides one-time payments toward heating costs Eligibility guidelines and application windows (starting October 1 for elderly or disabled households, November 1 for all others) The application process, including which documents to prepare How LIHEAP funds are distributed and how long approval can take What to do in case of a utility crisis or disconnection notice Common pitfalls in the application process and how to avoid them Additional assistance from the City of Ames 💡 Key Takeaway If you're struggling to keep up with your heating bills this winter, do not wait to ask for help. Programs like LIHEAP are here to assist, and local support is available through both MICA and the City of Ames. 🔗 Resources LIHEAP Information & Application: micaonline.org – Energy Assistance

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