Messenger News

SWG building tradition to continue

Tue, 13 May 2008 00:07:53 EDT

Southeast Webster-Grand High School seniors are using their skills in a building and trades class to construct a house, but next year the class will likely be vacant of senior class members.

For eight years, high school seniors have constructed a house for someone who contracts the majority of the work with the school, rather than a construction company.

Grant awarded for new biofuels lab

Tue, 13 May 2008 00:08:37 EDT

A federal grant of nearly $1 million will help start a biofuels testing lab at Iowa Central Community College, which may set the national standards for ethanol and biodiesel quality.

The Department of Energy has awarded $984,000 for the project at the Fort Dodge campus.

Rolling Hills drama ends

Tue, 13 May 2008 00:09:16 EDT

A roughly six-month debate over how to pay for a drainage project in the Rolling Hills neighborhood of Fort Dodge ended Monday with the property owners destined to foot part of the bill.

The City Council voted 6-1 to levy special assessments on property owners, who will collectively pay 45 percent of a new storm sewer's cost.

FD teachers to see 4.57 percent pay increase

Tue, 13 May 2008 00:10:02 EDT

Fort Dodge Community School District teachers will have $1,250 added to their base salaries this fall, after the majority of the school board approved the negotiated contract between the district and the Fort Dodge Education Association Monday night.

Board member Jerry Schnurr abstained from voting on the increase to make the base salary $28,415 next year.

Panel says keep the Municipal Building

Tue, 13 May 2008 00:10:52 EDT

Fort Dodge city government should remain in its traditional home - the stately Municipal Building - a citizens panel has recommended.

The Building Evaluation and Recommendation Team will urge the City Council to retain the building and invest in safety and handicapped accessibility improvements.