City of Ames’ Podcasts

As winter tightens its grip, many Ames residents are feeling the strain, especially when utility bills start to spike. In this episode, Bill Gebhart welcomes back John Odenweller, Utility Accounts Supervisor for the City of Ames, to help unpack what resources are available, how to navigate changes to your utility bill, and what you can do right now to stay warm and supported.

From LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) to emergency utility support and disconnection protections, John breaks down what assistance is out there, who’s eligible, and why it’s critical to act early. The episode also covers the City’s new utility customer portal, what’s changed, what’s easier, and how to get started.

Plus: A spotlight on The Ames Warming Place, a community-run overnight shelter that opens during extreme cold at First United Methodist Church (516 Kellogg Ave), offering refuge and warmth to those in need.

Episode Highlights:

What LIHEAP is and how to apply through MICA

Eligibility details and documentation needed

Emergency help for overdue bills and disconnection notices

Tips for accessing support without delay

Key changes to your monthly utility bill

Resources for in-person or online help

Information about The Ames Warming Place and how it supports the unhoused during dangerous weather

Resources Mentioned:

micaonline.org for LIHEAP applications under “Energy Assistance”

CityOfAmes.org/BoardsAndCommissions for civic engagement opportunities

City of Ames Utility Customer Service for help with billing questions

The Ames Warming Place located at First United Methodist Church, 516 Kellogg Ave

Stay warm, stay informed, and as always, thanks for tuning in to Ames in Focus.

In this episode, we dig into important changes on the horizon that will shape how cities across the U.S. serve their residents online. Starting in April 2026, new rules from the Department of Justice will go into effect under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), requiring local governments to make their websites, mobile apps, and digital content accessible to people with disabilities.

Host Bill Gebhart is joined by Casandra Eames, Engagement Coordinator for the City of Ames, to break down what these updates mean, what "digital accessibility" actually looks like in practice, and how Ames is preparing to meet the new standards.

🔍 In this episode:

What the ADA is and why it applies to digital content

What the DOJ’s new rule requires and when it takes effect

Steps Ames is taking now: accessibility audits, staff training, content updates, and more

Real-world examples of digital accessibility features

Why this matters to everyone, not just people with disabilities

How residents can share feedback or report accessibility concerns

Casandra offers a thoughtful and practical look at how accessibility benefits the whole community and reflects the City’s commitment to equity and inclusion.

📘 Learn More:
Visit CityOfAmes.org for updates and resources on accessibility and digital inclusion.

In this special episode of Ames in Focus, we celebrate a cornerstone of our community calendar: the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration. Now in its sixteenth year, the event brings together residents from across Ames and Story County for an evening of reflection, recognition, and inspiration. Host Bill Gebhart is joined by Vanessa Baker-Latimer, a driving force behind the event since its early days, to talk about what’s planned for 2026 and why this gathering continues to resonate.

What to Expect:

Cookie Reception (6:00–6:30 p.m.): Start the evening with cookies and live jazz from the Ames High School Jazz Band I.

Main Program (6:30 p.m.):

Humanitarian Awards presented by the Ames Human Relations Commission

Sixth Annual High School Essay Contest winners

Musical Performances, including the MLK Children’s Choir

Keynote Address by Quentin Hart, former Waterloo Mayor and inspiring civic leader

Vanessa shares the heart behind the celebration, the importance of community recognition, and how the event has grown into a beloved tradition that honors Dr. King's legacy while highlighting local voices and action.

📺 Watch or Attend:
The event is free and open to all, with a live stream available on the YouTube.com/@CityofAmesTelevision.

In this New Year’s episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart welcomes back Mayor John Haila, who begins his third term leading the City of Ames. Mayor Haila reflects on the highlights of 2025, discusses major City initiatives, and shares his vision for 2026. From the relocation of Fire Station No. 2 and the planning of a new recycling facility to the early stages of Ontario Community Park and growing opportunities for civic engagement, this conversation offers an insightful look into where the City has been and where it’s going.

Episode Highlights:

Reflections on 2025 milestones and proud moments in Ames

How Mayor Haila’s leadership perspective has evolved entering a third term

The impact of relocating Fire Station No. 2 to State Avenue

Preparing for the new Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus (R3C)

Why community input matters in shaping Ontario Community Park

Priorities for 2026 including the proposed Recreation Center

Encouragement for residents to stay involved with their local government

Resources & Links:

Learn more and get involved: CityOfAmes.org

Apply for a Board or Commission: CityOfAmes.org/BoardsandCommissions

Follow us on social media for updates and opportunities to engage with your City

In the final episode of Season One, we focus on how to reduce energy use, save money on your utility bills, and make your home more comfortable. Nolan Sagan, Sustainability Coordinator for the City of Ames, returns to the podcast. He is joined by DiMaucia Phanfil from Green Iowa AmeriCorps. Together, they explain how free home energy audits work, what common problems they find in local homes, and how the City’s rebate program can help residents take action.

Episode Highlights:

What a free home energy audit includes and how to sign up

Common sources of energy loss in Ames homes

How rebates support improvements such as new appliances and insulation

Small changes that can lead to big savings

A look ahead to a public event focused on understanding your utility bill

Important reminders about City office closures and Library events during the holiday week

Helpful Links:

Free Home Energy Audits: greeniowaamericorps.org/energyaudit

Ames Electric Services Rebates: CityofAmes.org/Sustainability

Programming Notes:
This episode marks the end of Season One of Ames in Focus. We will return next week with Season Two, beginning with a new conversation with Mayor John Haila.