Three state legislators representing Jefferson County met with residents Saturday morning, February 21st, at the Fairfield Public Library for the first of two legislative forums scheduled this session. The 70-minute event, hosted by the Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce, gave constituents an opportunity to ask questions and hear updates from the Iowa Capitol.
Participating in the forum were Adrian Dickey, a Republican from Packwood who represents Senate District 44 and is serving his sixth year in the Iowa Senate; Jeff Shipley, a Republican from Birmingham representing House District 82; and Helena Hayes, a Republican from New Sharon representing House District 88, now in her fourth year. A second forum is scheduled for March 21.
Dickey serves on the Workforce Development, Ways and Means, and Commerce committees. Shipley serves on the Education, Judiciary, and Oversight committees. Hayes serves on the Education, Veterans Affairs, and Workforce Development committees.
Shipley opened the forum by noting that “Iowa is facing unprecedented challenges… challenges we’ve never faced before.”
The discussion covered a wide range of topics, including water quality legislation, competing property tax reform proposals, local air quality concerns, library policy, pediatric cancer research funding, and the distribution of casino revenues to counties without casinos.
Water Quality and Impaired Waterways
Of the roughly 2,500 bills introduced every year, only about 700 to 800 remain active after the first “funnel” deadline. Senator Dickey mentioned there is a “misunderstanding of what the bill does,” referring to a proposal that would change how the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) lists impaired waters.
Currently, the DNR identifies “impaired” waterways under the federal 303(d) list. This happens when rivers or streams fail to meet water quality standards—often due to high levels of bacteria like E. coli. Once a waterway is listed, the state is federally required to create a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) plan, which acts as a “pollution diet” to bring the water back to health.
The new legislation would add a significant requirement: the DNR would have to identify the specific source of the fecal bacteria (human, cattle, hogs, or wildlife) using DNA-based testing before it can officially list the water as impaired.
The scale of the problem is significant. According to Hayes, last year, roughly 700 water segments across Iowa were classified as impaired. This list isn’t just a formality; it determines where state and federal cleanup dollars are spent.
Locally, the data shows a stark difference between Hayes’ counties:
- Jefferson County: Currently has one water body on a “watch list” located northeast of Fairfield. A watch list designation means there is some evidence of a problem, but not enough yet to trigger the full “impaired” status.
- Mahaska County: Representative Hayes noted her home county faces six impaired segments, including two separate stretches of the Skunk River.
Hayes encouraged residents to research these designations, as it could be the same body of water being listed twice, or even more. She was also emphasizing that local waterways often fail standards due to biological reasons or indicator bacteria that make them unsafe for recreation.
A major point of discussion was whether the state is doing enough to monitor these waters. Senator Dickey highlighted state investment in water quality monitoring, noting that the Iowa Flood Center (IIHR) receives significant funding—describing it as “32 cents to $1 million.”
The phrase illustrates the per-capita breakdown: Iowa’s $1 million investment in water research costs each of the state’s roughly 3.2 million residents about 32 cents. “There’s a lot of money on water quality,” Dickey said, noting the state is making substantial investments in research and data collection.
Representative Jeff Shipley pushed for continued or increased support for these monitoring systems, citing the “need [for] data” and saying it is “likely worth the investment.” He emphasized that “data is good,” as it allows the public to see exactly what is in their water.
Shipley specifically mentioned researcher Chris Jones, a former University of Iowa scientist known for his independent and often critical analysis of Iowa’s water quality. Jones has argued that without consistent, transparent data, the public cannot see the true impact of agricultural runoff. By referencing Jones, Shipley highlighted a growing demand for monitoring that is independent of political influence, even as the legislature debates bills that could change how that data is used to “label” a river as polluted.
Property Tax Reform
Property tax reform generated extensive discussion, as lawmakers continue working through three separate proposals introduced by the House, Senate, and Governor’s Office.
Dickey expressed frustration that no comprehensive reform passed last year, calling the lack of action “an embarrassment.” “I said last year, it was an embarrassment we didn’t get anything signed,” Dickey said. “I’ll be upset if that continues into this year.”
He said the proposals differ significantly but are “very different, but much closer to start with than before,” raising hopes for compromise. He also noted there are “a lot more property tax segments than others,” with some proposals diving deeper into areas such as commerce, for example.
Hayes emphasized the challenge of balancing taxpayer relief with the need to fund essential local services such as public safety and schools. She referenced the advocacy group Iowans for Tax Relief and the need to “focus on a different path” to find the right balance. “We’re searching for the correct mix,” she said, noting that legislators must find the good elements from all three bills and combine them into legislation that meets everyone’s needs.
Shipley added that collaboration with local governments will be key, suggesting policymakers must evaluate which funding structures are effective and which are not. He emphasized the importance of “letting go of the things not working” rather than “throwing a bunch of money at something and hoping it works,” calling for flexibility in approach.
However, Dickey also placed responsibility on local governments and taxpayers to examine how property tax dollars are spent. “It’s the number one issue I get talked to about,” Dickey said. “We don’t really do anything with it… money comes in from property taxes and money goes out.”
He encouraged residents to attend local budget hearings held by city councils, county supervisors, and school boards, noting that property tax decisions ultimately depend on local spending priorities as well as state policy. He urged taxpayers to scrutinize how their money is being allocated at the local level.
One resident noted afterward that Jefferson County faces significant unfunded state mandates, including maintaining jails and court systems, paying utilities and office supplies for those state court systems, and funding schools—suggesting the state should shoulder more of these fiscal burdens rather than placing them on local property taxpayers.
Air Quality and Local Oversight
Residents raised concerns about air quality at the Fairfield Foundry, an issue that has prompted a petition with approximately 200 signatures calling for action.
Senator Dickey acknowledged the petition but questioned whether creating local air quality enforcement would duplicate efforts already underway at the state level. He asked whether it makes sense to raise local taxes to hire staff for work the Iowa Department of Natural Resources already performs.
“I don’t know if that’s the case” for pursuing local enforcement, Dickey said. He noted that “the system is somewhat working,” with the DNR currently reviewing the situation and expected to reach a decision by April.
Representative Hayes broadened the discussion to address concerns about state agency rulemaking power. She referenced House Study File 2414, legislation that would require legislative approval for major agency rules that could have significant adverse economic effects on Iowa communities and businesses.
“More eyes and voices” on major regulatory decisions “could make a difference here locally,” Hayes said.
She also raised concerns about what she termed the “deep state” problem—unelected agency officials making decisions that can supersede elected oversight. She suggested that giving the legislature more control over agency rulemaking could address situations where DNR decisions lack accountability to voters.
Representative Shipley acknowledged the Fairfield Foundry issue was new to him but discussed the broader challenge of addressing regulatory concerns at the state level. He said bringing attention to regulatory problems requires sustained engagement from local officials and advocacy groups, along with clear evidence that existing processes are flawed.
“The best way to interact with the legislature is to educate lawmakers,” Shipley said. He emphasized that advocates need to demonstrate cost-benefit analysis and present legal expertise when dealing with complex regulations.
He encouraged local engagement with entities like the Fairfield Economic Development Association and Fairfield City Council as starting points for building a case that could gain legislative traction.
Library Policies and Parental Rights
What began as debate over school library books has grown into a broader fight over obscenity law, parental rights, local control, and the First Amendment.
Representative Shipley defended Iowa’s 2023 law setting age-appropriate standards for school library materials depicting sexual acts, arguing librarians should be held to the same legal standards as any other adult when providing materials to minors.
“If I provide obscene material to a minor, I would face consequences,” Shipley said. “Librarians aren’t held to that same standard. I don’t think libraries should be above the law.”
Under current Iowa law, libraries and schools have exemptions when distributing materials for educational purposes. Some lawmakers have discussed narrowing those exemptions, meaning librarians could face misdemeanor charges if a book is later deemed legally “obscene” or “harmful to minors.”
Shipley said most school districts have complied with the 2023 standards, but “librarians have not been so easy to work with.”
He also criticized Iowa’s library confidentiality law, which prevents parents from accessing their children’s checkout records. “To stand in the way between the parent-child relationship is a dangerous place to be, and that’s what they’re doing,” Shipley said, calling it “absurd” that parents cannot see what their children check out.
Supporters of the privacy law argue it protects minors researching sensitive issues such as abuse or health concerns.
Representative Hayes described the issue as a policy conflict over how best to protect minors while respecting local control. She noted that accredited libraries receiving state funding operate under statewide standards, yet collection decisions remain largely local.
“If you want local control, but you’re receiving funding from outside, there are standards that don’t align,” she said, adding that “there’s a lot of confusion across communities.”
Hayes also pointed to governance structures that complicate accountability. Mayors typically appoint library boards, and those boards oversee collections and personnel. “There’s no direct elected official you can address,” Hayes said.
The debate has escalated in nearby Oskaloosa, which legislators brought up, where residents objected to titles including Gender Queer in youth sections. Large public meetings followed, and officials discussed cutting or restructuring the library’s more than $1 million budget. Because the library board is appointed rather than elected, some officials viewed funding as their primary leverage. Critics argue budget threats amount to censorship. Supporters say they reflect taxpayer accountability and community standards.
The national legal landscape shifted in 2025 when the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in Little v. Llano County that public library book selection constitutes “government speech” not protected by the First Amendment. Under that interpretation, removing books based on ideological objections does not violate free speech protections because the government is considered to be “speaking” through its collection choices.
Both legislators said Fairfield has avoided the level of controversy seen elsewhere. “There have been minor complaints here in Fairfield,” Shipley said. “I appreciate the Fairfield Public Library for not having big issues I have to deal with.”
Pediatric Cancer Research
Lawmakers discussed House File 2310, legislation aimed at increasing state funding for pediatric cancer research at the University of Iowa.
Representative Shipley, who serves on the Higher Education Committee, voiced strong support for the measure. He said families affected by childhood cancer have been advocating for the university and state to make pediatric cancer research a higher priority.
“Pediatric cancer research is asking the state and University of Iowa to take it seriously,” Shipley said. “This is more severe, more critical, and needs to be addressed.”
He criticized the university for not directing more of its fundraising toward cancer research. The University of Iowa raises approximately $700 million annually, yet Shipley said pediatric cancer research remains underfunded relative to the need.
He pointed to a stark contrast: During football games at Kinnick Stadium, fans participate in the famous “wave” to patients at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. Yet the university hasn’t matched that gesture with corresponding research investment.
“It makes us look like hypocrites,” Shipley said.
He said families have confronted university officials and are working with legislators to demand better treatment options and more research funding.
Representative Hayes said lawmakers are also examining potential environmental factors that may contribute to cancer rates, including pesticides and chemicals. “We’re not taking anything off the table” when investigating possible causes, she said.
She noted that Jefferson County has a relatively low cancer rate—”which is very bright”—and directed residents to canceriowa.org for more information.
Senator Dickey said he supports the bill and has been reviewing how current cancer research funding is allocated. While no companion legislation has been introduced in the Senate yet, he suggested lawmakers need to examine whether existing funds are being used effectively before committing additional resources.
Casino Revenue Distribution
One of the most animated discussions centered on the distribution of casino revenue to counties without casinos—an issue Senator Dickey has championed. Under Iowa law, a portion of casino revenues is designated for nonprofit and community projects, including allocations to counties that do not host casinos.
Dickey, who has served as a volunteer firefighter in Packwood for 34 years, explained the real-world impact of inadequate funding. He noted that fire departments and other nonprofits struggle to fund equipment, with a single fire truck costing more than $300,000 while many rural fire departments receive only about $30,000 annually in support. “Nonprofits are looking for sources of revenue,” he said, noting that departments have to rely on federal grants and other outside sources to afford basic equipment.
Dickey argued the current formula disproportionately benefits host counties. He explained that under the casino compact agreement, 3% of revenues should go back to counties, with funds designated for qualified service organizations (QSOs) and nonprofits. Additionally, 1% goes to the state to be distributed among the 84 counties that don’t have casinos.
However, he said the ratios are “messed up” because counties with casinos get the property tax revenue and the jobs from casino operations, while surrounding counties that provide customers receive minimal benefit.
“Of $78 million that has come through, $72 million has stayed in Washington County,” Dickey said. Meanwhile, Keokuk County has received about $1.4 million and a few other counties received smaller amounts over the years, “but only $30,000 to Jefferson County.”
The audience laughed when Dickey shared the figure.
“You laugh because it’s insulting,” Dickey responded. He noted that Van Buren County, Mahaska County, and Davis County have received $0 from the distribution, as well.
Dickey illustrated the disparity further by noting that Washington County has used casino funds to replace playgrounds twice in 20 years “because they’re looking to spend money on something—taking on casinos, that’s a monster.”
He proposed a more equitable formula: “If 17% of revenue comes from Jefferson County, then 17% of the 3% should go to Jefferson County nonprofits.” He argued for spreading the funding based on where casino customers actually come from, rather than concentrating it all in the host county.
Dickey acknowledged the challenge ahead: “Taking on casinos is not easy,” he said, adding that meaningful reform will likely require sustained legislative effort. He noted that Washington County’s Riverside Casino recently purchased the Burlington casino, further concentrating control and making the fight even more difficult.
A bill addressing this issue died this week, but Dickey pledged to continue pursuing legislative changes. “I’m in it for the long haul. It’s not an easy thing to fight against,” he said.
However, he expressed some optimism that the pressure from his legislation may force changes. “I think I might see a change in this thing because of the pressure this bill brought upon them,” Dickey said, though he emphasized that real, lasting reform will need to come legislatively rather than through voluntary cooperation from the foundation.
He’s had numerous conversations with the Washington County Riverboat Foundation, which administers the funds, and hopefully believes sustained pressure may eventually yield results.
Educational Technology and Workforce Development
Representative Shipley also briefly discussed concerns about educational technology and its impact on students, noting that young people are increasingly “glued to technology” in ways that may be reducing cognitive development and learning outcomes.
He referenced an “EdTech bill” aimed at addressing these concerns and mentioned conversations with Indian Hills Community College about making community college and four-year degree programs more affordable and accessible as alternatives to traditional four-year university paths. The goal is to “beef up community college” options and make education more affordable and accessible for Iowa students, he said.
Looking Ahead
The next Fairfield legislative forum is scheduled for March 21st, when legislators are expected to provide updates on these and other issues as the session progresses toward its anticipated conclusion in late April or early May.
