City of Ames’ Podcasts

Ames in Focus: Understanding the Nuisance Ordinance with Sara VanMeeteren

In this episode of Ames in Focus, we welcome back Sara VanMeeteren, Building Official for the City of Ames, for an important discussion about the City’s Nuisance Ordinance.
Sara breaks down what the ordinance covers, who it applies to, and the types of issues that can be considered violations—everything from overgrown yards to improperly stored items. We also walk through how the City identifies and enforces nuisance violations, including how residents are notified and what steps are taken before any penalties are applied.
Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or property manager, this episode is packed with useful information to help you stay in compliance and keep Ames neighborhoods safe and clean.
Key Topics:
What the Nuisance Ordinance is and why it exists
Common types of violations (and how to avoid them)
Who is responsible when a violation occurs
How the City investigates and enforces the ordinance
What to expect if you receive a notice
More Info:To learn more about the City’s nuisance policies or report a concern, visit www.CityofAmes.org
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Up Close: Anneke Mundel, Monica Gordillo, and Nancy Carroll

Welcome to our end of the month group conversation on Up Close! On this podcast, we will have conversations with our neighbors about life in the context of what it means to be in Ames, Iowa. On this episode, previous guests Anneke Mundel, Monica Gordillo, and Nancy Carroll get a chance to know each other through conversation as Casandra makes connections between them based on their previous podcasts.
Up Close is a podcast from the City of Ames.
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.

Ames in Focus: What it Takes to Become an Officer with Major Jason Tuttle

In this episode of Ames in Focus, we sit down with Major Jason Tuttle of the Ames Police Department for an insightful conversation about law enforcement in our community.
Major Tuttle shares his journey into policing, offering a look at what inspired him to serve and how his career has evolved. We dive into the philosophy and practice of community policing, and what that looks like day-to-day in Ames.
Thinking about a career in law enforcement? This episode breaks down what it takes to become a police officer, the qualities the Ames Police Department looks for, and how to start the application process with the City of Ames.
Key Topics:
Major Tuttle’s personal path into law enforcement
The role and importance of community policing in Ames
Requirements and expectations for becoming a police officer
How to begin the hiring process with the City of Ames
The evolving nature of public safety and police work
Interested in joining the Ames Police Department?Visit www.CityofAmes.org to learn more or start your application at www.CityofAmes.org/Jobs.

Up Close: Nancy Carroll

Welcome to Up Close, the podcast where we have meaningful conversations with our neighbors about life in Ames, Iowa.
In this episode, we sit down with Nancy Carroll, who has retired, but that hasn't stopped her work with the community. Nancy was born and raised in Ames and, after college, worked with and eventually ran the Ames Parks and Recreation department. Now, you can find her helping to build projects that are close to her heart, such as the 60 Forward Center and, currently, the new Ames Animal Shelter. Nancy definitely calls Ames home, but is continuing to build it! 🏡❤️
Up Close is a podcast from the City of Ames.
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.

Ames in Focus: We Need Your Help for a New Animal Shelter with Ron Edwards

In this episode of Ames in Focus, we're excited to welcome back Ron Edwards, Animal Control Supervisor for the City of Ames. Ron joins us with some big news — the official kickoff of the capital campaign to build a new Animal Shelter in Ames!
We talk about:
The incredible number of animals the shelter has helped in the past year
What it means to be a No Kill Animal Shelter and how the team continues to meet that commitment
Highlights from the Capital Campaign Kickoff Press Conference
And most importantly, what a new, modern shelter will mean for the animals, the staff, and the dedicated volunteers who make it all possible
If you love animals and want to help create a better future for them in Ames, visit AmesAnimalShelter.org for more information and to donate to the new shelter.
🎥 Want to watch the kickoff event? Check out the press conference on the City’s YouTube channel: @AmesTelevision

Up Close: Monica Gordillo

Welcome to Up Close, the podcast where we have meaningful conversations with our neighbors about life in Ames, Iowa.
In this episode, we sit down with Monica Gordillo, who works with the Iowa State University and is originally from Ecuador. Monica reflects on being a stay-at-home mom, her work with a University student club, and visiting home and seeing her large family. There are a lot of reasons why Monica calls Ames "home." 🏡❤️
Up Close is a podcast from the City of Ames.
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.

Ames in Focus: Know Your Lease: Utility Service Disconnects with John Odenweller

In this episode of Ames in Focus, we welcome back John Odenweller, Utility Customer Service Supervisor for the City of Ames. John shares helpful information about how to start, stop, or transfer your utility services—especially important during the busy spring and summer moving season.
We discuss why it’s critical to understand the terms of your lease and to notify Utility Customer Services when you move. Contrary to common belief, the Utility office doesn't automatically receive notice of your move. Per City policy, individuals listed on the billing account remain responsible for the account until proper notice is given.
John also clarifies when utility shut-offs occur (they do not happen on weekends or holidays) and emphasizes the importance of contacting Utility Customer Services directly if you have questions or need assistance.
Key Topics:
How to start, stop, or transfer utility services in Ames
Importance of reading and understanding your lease terms
Why you must notify the City when moving out
Policies regarding account responsibility and shut-offs
How and when to get help from Utility Customer Services
Contact:Need help with your utility account? Go to www.AmesUtilities.com
 

Up Close: Anneke Mundel

Welcome to Up Close, the podcast where we have meaningful conversations with our neighbors about life in Ames, Iowa.
In this episode, we sit down with Anneke Mundel, who works with the United Way of Story County and is preparing for a big move to Newfoundland this June. Anneke reflects on what it's meant to call Ames home, her favorite neighborhood spot (Roosevelt Park), and the unique challenges of living far from family. Through it all, one thing is clear—no matter where she goes, Anneke will always be an Ames person. 🏡❤️
Up Close is a podcast from the City of Ames.
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.