Latest news with #Coralville
Yahoo
11-08-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Iowa City finalizes housing-focused revenue for proposed local option sales tax
Iowa City is asking residents to vote on a possible local option sales tax in November, producing revenue that will address the city's housing needs while funding additional road and sidewalk repairs. The vote is part of an area-wide push to establish a local option sales tax and provide additional budgetary flexibility in Iowa City, Coralville and North Liberty. A simple majority of voters is needed to approve the ballot measure. If approved, the Iowa City's 1% tax will take effect on July 1, 2026. More: Coralville follows North Liberty's lead by drafting broad local option sales tax language Here's what to know: What does Iowa City's local option sales tax ballot language say? Iowa law requires 50% of local option sales tax revenue to be used for "property tax relief." Cities are free to use the remaining 50% in revenue as they see fit. Iowa City's ballot language reads: "The specific purposes for which the revenues shall otherwise be expended are: 25% to preserve existing affordable housing stock, increase shelter, transitional, and permanent housing supports, and increase access to and the supply of affordable housing for households with low incomes. 10% for maintenance and construction of public streets, sidewalks, trails, parks, and facilities as designated by City Council. 15% for community partnerships, including, but not limited to, partnerships that support intergovernmental, economic development, arts and culture, and social service priorities as designated by City Council." Does a local option sales tax apply to every purchase? No. "Life necessities" including groceries, rent or mortgages, utilities, vehicle purchases, gas, motels or hotels, prescription drugs and other health products would be exempt from the 1% surcharge. How much revenue would a sales tax create for Iowa City? City staff estimate that Iowa City generates between $800 million and $1 billion in eligible purchases each year, which would equate to between $8-10 million in revenue. Since state law requires the city to use half on property tax relief, the remaining 50% would equal $4-5 million. Iowa City's adopted Fiscal 2026 budget includes about $76.3 million in revenues, meaning the additional cash flow from a local option sales tax would add an estimated 5-6.5% to the city's budget. More: Prosecutors say ex-UI student would have killed woman, awaits attempted murder verdict Based on staff estimates, the sales tax would annually create an additional $2-2.5 million for housing, $1.2-1.5 million for community partnerships and $800,000 to $1 million for public infrastructure improvements. Iowa City City Council supports LOST with a bit of pause The seven-member Iowa City City Council unanimously approved the LOST ballot language despite a bit of concern. Mayor Pro Tempore Mazahir Salih and several of her colleagues acknowledged that the local option sales tax is "regressive," meaning it creates a greater burden for lower-income people. "I think this is going to affect the most vulnerable people in the community if we add the sales tax," Salih said, though she voted in favor of the proposed ballot language. "We cannot just tax the poor to fix property." Salih has been largely against the tax since it was first discussed in early summer. More: Regents encourage 'free flow of ideas' by removing references to DEI, CRT in new course policy Councilor Megan Alter referenced University of Iowa gamedays, festivals and other events that bring in large crowds from outside of Iowa City. "We will be able to benefit from outside dollars that will stay in our community," Alter said. Mayor Bruce Teague also said the council should "call it like it is," acknowledging the regressive nature of the tax, but referenced the city's "increasingly tight" budget as a possible concern. "It does have large benefits for the most vulnerable in our community," Teague said. "And let's face it, funding is being reduced all around and this is one way that we can help to keep the services that we currently have, as well as enhance opportunities for more services for those most in need." Ryan Hansen covers local government and crime for the Press-Citizen. He can be reached at rhansen@ or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @ryanhansen01. This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: What to know about Iowa City's local option sales tax propsal Solve the daily Crossword
Associated Press
24-06-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
SunHydrogen to Deploy more than 30 m² Hydrogen Production Pilot System in Collaboration with UT Austin
Coralville, IA and Austin, TX, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SunHydrogen, Inc. (OTCQB: HYSR), the developer of a breakthrough technology to produce renewable hydrogen using sunlight and water, today announced a major milestone in the advancement of its proprietary photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen production technology. In a new strategic collaboration, SunHydrogen will partner with The University of Texas at Austin – Center for Electromechanics (UT-CEM) to install, commission, and operate a more than 30 m² proof-of-concept hydrogen production system at UT-CEM's Hydrogen ProtoHub research facility. In a recent release, SunHydrogen announced the execution of a contract with The Process Group (TPG Engineers) for the front-end engineering design of this pilot plant. The pilot plant will feature sixteen 1.92 m² photoelectrochemical (PEC) reactor units—each the same basic unit to be showcased at the Hydrogen Technology Expo in Houston—totaling more than 30 m2 of active area. The reactor units will be installed across multiple panels in a modular, scalable configuration, representing the company's first large-scale, multi-panel hydrogen production system operating under real-world conditions. Designed to operate entirely on sunlight and water, the more than 30 m² array will enable comprehensive performance validation and data collection to support commercial system development. 'This collaboration represents a pivotal step in bringing SunHydrogen's vision to life,' said SunHydrogen CEO Tim Young. 'Deploying a pilot demonstration system at the Hydrogen ProtoHub allows us to validate our technology under real-world conditions and generate the necessary data needed for commercialization. We're proud to work with Michael Lewis and his team at UT-CEM to accelerate the path to decentralized, renewable hydrogen production.' Located on UT Austin's J. J. Pickle Research Campus, the Hydrogen ProtoHub is a purpose-built facility designed to be a proving ground for hydrogen technologies. Operated by UT-CEM, the site offers advanced infrastructure, safety systems, and experienced technical personnel. SunHydrogen will work closely with UT-CEM on the system assembly, installation, commissioning and long-term data acquisition of the sixteen PEC reactor units. This collaboration also contributes to broader research, workforce training, and education in sustainable hydrogen technologies. Michael Lewis, Director of the Center for Electromechanics at UT-Austin, stated, 'We are excited to host SunHydrogen's innovative technology at our Hydrogen ProtoHub. This project contributes to the advancement of photoelectrochemical hydrogen production and aligns with our mission to support the transition to a sustainable energy future through hands-on research, industry collaboration, and education.' Dr. Syed Mubeen, the Chief Technology Officer of SunHydrogen, stated, 'This pilot takes us from lab validation to system-level testing in real-world conditions. With >30 m² of active PEC area, we will generate critical performance data to guide commercial design. Working with UT-CEM ensures we execute this scale-up with precision, safety, and engineering rigor.' Following commissioning, the system will operate for six months under UT-CEM oversight. The demonstration will generate valuable insights to support both technology development and broader hydrogen deployment strategies. For more information on SunHydrogen's technology and developments, visit: About SunHydrogen, Inc. SunHydrogen is developing breakthrough technologies to produce renewable hydrogen in a market that Goldman Sachs estimates to be worth $1 trillion + per year by 2050. Our patented SunHydrogen Panel technology, currently in development, uses sunlight and any source of water to produce low-cost renewable hydrogen. Like solar panels that produce electricity, our SunHydrogen Panels will produce renewable hydrogen. Our vision is to become a major technology supplier in the new hydrogen economy. By developing, acquiring and partnering with other critical technologies, we intend to enable a future of emission-free hydrogen production for all industrial applications such as fertilizer and petroleum refining as well as fuel cell applications for mobility and data centers. To learn more about SunHydrogen, please visit our website at Safe Harbor Statement Matters discussed in this press release may contain forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, the words 'anticipate,' 'believe,' 'estimate,' 'may,' 'intend,' 'expect' and similar expressions identify such forward-looking statements. Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those contemplated, expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained herein. Forward-looking statements are based largely on the expectations of the Company and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties and other factors, known and unknown, including the risk factors described from time to time in the Company's reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements contained herein are applicable only as of the date on which they are made, and the Company does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as may be required under applicable law. About the Center for Electromechanics at UT Austin The University of Texas at Austin's Center for Electromechanics (UT-CEM) conducts applied research and development in advanced energy storage and power systems. UT-CEM leads innovative programs in hydrogen technologies, electric transportation, and renewable energy integration. Press Contact [email protected]
Yahoo
23-06-2025
- Yahoo
Fireworks in Iowa City? New law loosens restrictions around Fourth of July, New Year's Eve
Johnson County residents can celebrate the Fourth of July with a bang. Changes to Iowa law in 2025 mean that fireworks can now be used across Johnson County on July 3 and 4. Iowa City, Coralville, North Liberty, Tiffin and other communities previously restricted the use of fireworks, even around Independence Day. Senate File 303 stops county supervisors and city councils from enforcing restrictions on July 3, the Fourth of July, and on New Year's Eve on Dec. 31. Counties and cities are free to restrict firework use on the remaining 362 days of the year. More: Iowans could shoot off fireworks on 4th of July, New Year's Eve under bill sent to Reynolds If cities don't set restrictions, fireworks are legal throughout the summer, between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m., June 1 through July 8. Here's what to know before you start shooting off fireworks: Despite the broader changes to Iowa law, it's not legal to shoot off fireworks for the entire 48 hours from July 3 through July 4. Fireworks are permitted between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. on July 3 and 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. everywhere on the Fourth of July, regardless of local restrictions. More: Johnson County residents unite to combat rent hikes, issues at local mobile home parks In unincorporated Johnson County, fireworks are permitted between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. between July 3 and July 5. Fireworks can be used at other times, but use requires a permit issued by the county. The punishment for using fireworks remains unchanged. Violators are subject to a $250 fine, plus court fees and other surcharges. More: State Historical Society of Iowa to shutter Iowa City's Centennial Building. Find out why Novelty fireworks, including sparklers, are legal. Coralville asks that residents "be mindful" of their neighbors, including those with pets, young children or military veterans, and requests that they find ways "to celebrate without the bang." Iowa City encourages residents to speak directly to their neighbors about illegal fireworks use. The city does mention the non-emergency line, (319) 256-6800, if residents feel they need to make a report. Iowa City's Jazz Festival will be capped off by a fireworks show on Saturday, July 5, beginning around 9:30 p.m. Coralville will also hold a fireworks show at its 4thFest, with festivities beginning at 9:45 p.m. on Friday, July 4. Ryan Hansen covers local government and crime for the Press-Citizen. He can be reached at rhansen@ or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @ryanhansen01. This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: Can Johnson Co. residents use fireworks on July 4? New law says 'yes'
Hospitality Net
05-06-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
avid hotels by IHG Celebrates 80th Milestone Opening, Expands Midwest Footprint
avid hotels by IHG - one of the world's leading hotel companies with more than 6,600 open hotels across 20 brands - celebrates the opening of its 80th property with avid hotel Coralville - Iowa City. This marks the brand's second property in Iowa and the fourth dual-branded avid hotels and Candlewood Suites in the US, following the prototype's launch in 2021. As IHG's second-largest contributor to system size, avid hotels is the company's fastest-growing new-build brand. With 131 hotels in the pipeline*, avid hotels is all about what matters most to both guests and owners — delivering a great night's sleep and exceptional quality at a fair price. Karen Gilbride, vice president of avid hotels, Atwell Suites & Garner hotels, said: "avid hotels consistently drive strong commercial results and guest loyalty - reflected in some of the highest guest satisfaction scores within the IHG portfolio. Its approach is simple, yet effective. Since opening our first property in 2018, we've grown to 80 hotels and are accelerating our momentum — expanding into new markets and strengthening our presence in existing ones. It's clear that our 'just right' strategy continues to resonate with both guests and owners. Looking ahead, we remain focused on enhancing owner returns and elevating the guest experience wherever possible. One key initiative for this year is our revamped breakfast offering, delivering more of what our guests want at a reduced operating cost to owners, which we're excited to roll out at avid hotel Coralville - Iowa City." Owned by Westcor JD Royal Hospitality, the 71-room avid hotel Coralville - Iowa City is centrally located near the University of Iowa and attractions like the Antique Car Museum of Iowa. The hotel will deliver the brand's hallmarks that guests have come to love and expect, from right-size rooms with inviting beds to sound-reducing design for a great night's sleep, a large fitness center and a reimagined complimentary fresh, hot breakfast. The new breakfast now includes a robust selection of high-quality items, such as scrambled eggs, proteins, potatoes, and premium bean-to-cup coffee, ensuring guests start their day off just right. Mona and Pankaj Patel, Owners, Westcor JD Royal Hospitality commented: "We're proud to introduce the first avid and Candlewood Suites dual-brand property to Coralville as this hotel is one of the largest of its kind in the United States. This modern pairing is thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of both short-term and extended-stay guests, delivering a stay that feels just right. At avid hotel Coralville - Iowa City, every detail is focused on the all-important essentials - no matter where your travels take you." Along with avid hotel Coralville - Iowa City, other recent openings and locations that will soon welcome guests include: Opened in February 2025 under the operation of Inmobiliaria Flecha Amarilla, avid hotel Queretaro Centro Sur features 118 guestrooms. Here, guests can enjoy convenient access to notable local attractions, including the historic Aqueduct of Santiago de Querétaro and the Teatro Metropolitano. The 80-room avid hotel Harrisburg NE - Hershey Area, also opened in February 2025, under SNP Management, LLC, is within easy reach of Hersheypark and the iconic Hershey's Chocolate World. Set to become the brand's first location in California, avid hotel Victorville - Hesperia will open under Score Hospitality Inc. Its prime location offers guests easy access to Mojave Narrows Regional Park and the iconic Route 66 Museum. To learn more or book a room for an upcoming trip, visit or download the IHG One Rewards mobile app. *As of March 31, 2025 Hotel website
