2026 Federal Legislative PrioritiesCopyrighted
January 20, 2026
ACTION ITEMS
City of Dubuque # 2.
City Council
ITEM TITLE: 2026 Federal Legislative Priorities
SUMMARY: City Manager recommending City Council approval of the
2026 Federal Legislative Priorities.
SUGGUESTED Receive and File; Approve
DISPOSITION:
ATTACHMENTS:
1. MVM Memo
2. 2026 Federal Legislative Priorities_Updated-Uploaded 1.20.26
3. 2026 FEDERAL Legislative Priorities REDLINED_Updated-Uploaded 1.20.26
4. 2026 Federal Legislative Priorities
5. 2026 FEDERAL Legislative Priorities REDLINED
Page 1227 of 1459
THE C
DUjIBQTE
Masterpiece on the Mississippi
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: 2026 Federal Legislative Priorities
DATE: January 15, 2026
Dubuque
AIFAWca Ciq
ni
I
2007-2012.2013
2017*2019
Department Managers and City of Dubuque strategic partners worked with Consultant
Teri Goodmann to develop the set of recommended 2026 Federal Legislative Priorities.
I recommend and respectfully request Mayor and City Council approval of the 2026
Federal Legislative Priorities.
v
Mic ael C. Van Milligen
MCVM:sv
Attachment
cc: Crenna Brumwell, City Attorney
Cori Burbach, Assistant City Manager
Anderson Sainci, Director of Strategic Partnerships
Teri Goodmann, Consultant
Page 1228 of 1459
THE CITY OF
DUBqft
Masterpiece on the Mississippi
Dubuque
All-Amerim City
�'�,An()uni nz: ]AAt
1 1
2007-2012.2013
2017*2019
2026 FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE
PRIORITIES
Page 1229 of 1459
Table of Contents
FEDERAL FOCUS 2022- 2032......................................................................................................................... 3
GRANT OPPORTUNITIES...............................................................................................................................
3
1. INFRASTRUCTURE: TRANSPORTATION GRANT PROGRAMS.....................................................................
4
a. BUILDGRANT.........................................................................................................................................
4
b. SAFE STREETS FOR ALL (SS4A) GRANT..................................................................................................
6
c. DOT TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNITY & SYSTEM PRESERVATION GRANT PROGRAM BUILD GRANT 7
2. INFRASTRUCTURE: SURFACE TRANSPORTATION.....................................................................................
8
a. BUILD GRANT FOR "IMPROVING THE NORTHWEST ARTE RIAL/JO H N DEERE ROAD CORRIDOR FOR
FREIGHTMOBILITY"..................................................................................................................................
8
b. EAST -WEST CORRIDOR CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS............................................................................
9
c. NORTHWEST ARTERIAL/HIGHWAY 20 INTERSECTION........................................................................
12
d. SOUTHWEST ARTERIAL (US HIGHWAY 52) PEDESTRIAN / BIKE SHARED USE PATH ...........................
12
e. CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS: US HIGHWAY 20....................................................................................
13
f. PUBLIC TRANSIT FUNDING..................................................................................................................
13
3. INFRASTRUCTURE: AIR TRANSPORTATION.............................................................................................
15
a. AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT AND ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE................................................................
15
b. AVIATION WORKFORCE SHORTAGE...................................................................................................
15
c. REPLACEMENT AND LIABILITY OF AQUEOUS FILM FORMING FOAM .................................................
15
d. TSA AIRPORT WORKER SCREENING....................................................................................................
15
e. CONTRACT TOWER PROGRAM...........................................................................................................
15
4. INFRASTRUCTURE: PASSENGER RAIL......................................................................................................
17
5. INFRASTRUCTURE: WATER.....................................................................................................................
18
a. WASTEWATER & DRINKING WATER...................................................................................................
18
b. FLOODWALL IMPROVEMENT & MAINTENANCE................................................................................
18
6. INFRASTRUCTURE: BROADBAND & TELECOM MUICATIONS..................................................................
20
a. COMMUNICATIONS............................................................................................................................
20
b. BROADBAND DATA ACT......................................................................................................................
25
7. INFRASTRUCTURE: PARKS AND RECREATIONAL AREAS.........................................................................26
a. LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND (LWCF) - OUTDOOR RECREATION LEGACY PARTNERSHIP
PROGRAM(ORLP)...................................................................................................................................
26
8. CITY/COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES/PROTECTIVE SERVICES...............................................................
27
a. COMBINED COMMUNICATION CENTER.............................................................................................
27
b. CONTINUE SUPPORT FOR ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTER GRANTS .....................................................
27
c. FIRE STATION CONSTRUCTION GRANTS.............................................................................................
27
d. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS SERVICES PROGRAM .......................................
28
9. HOUSING.................................................................................................................................................
29
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Page 1230 of 1459
a. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDING........................................................
29
b. MOBILE HOME COMMUNITY PROTECTIONS......................................................................................
29
c. AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS....................................................................................
30
d. ANCHOR INSTITUTIONS......................................................................................................................
30
e. HOMES FOR EVERY LOCAL PROTECTOR, EDUCATOR AND RESPONDER (HELPER) ACT OF 2023 .......
30
10. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT..................................................................................................................
32
a. EDA GRANT PROGRAMS.....................................................................................................................
32
b. FEDERAL HISTORIC TAX CREDITS........................................................................................................
32
c. NEW MARKET TAX CREDIT PROGRAM................................................................................................
33
d. CHILDCARE..........................................................................................................................................
33
e. EPA BROWNFIELDS PROGRAM...........................................................................................................
34
f. ARTS & CULTURE.................................................................................................................................
34
11. PUBLIC HEALTH.....................................................................................................................................
37
a. PUBLIC HEALTH FUNDING..................................................................................................................
37
b. LEAD POISONING PREVENTION..........................................................................................................
37
c. LEAD IN DRINKING WATER..................................................................................................................
38
d. ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE — SUPPORT INCREASED COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER, NATIONAL HEALTH
SERVICE CORPS, AND TEACHING HEALTH CENTER FUNDING................................................................
38
e. PROTECTING ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE PRESCRIPTION DRUGS..........................................................
39
f. AUTHORIZE PERMANENT MEDICARE TELEHEALTH FLEXIBILITIES.......................................................
39
g. IMPROVING MATERNAL CARE ACCESS AND OUTCOMES...................................................................
40
12. PLANNING.............................................................................................................................................
41
a. HOUSING & ZONING REFORM............................................................................................................
41
b. CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROGRAM.....................................................................................
42
13. SUSTAINABLE & RESILIENT COMMUNITIES..........................................................................................
43
14. INDIAN GAMING REGULATIONS...........................................................................................................
45
15. HUMAN RIGHTS....................................................................................................................................46
a. MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCING..............................................................................................
46
b. EXPAND THE EARNED INCOME AND CHILD TAX CREDITS..................................................................
46
c. INCREASE THE FEDERAL MINIMUM WAGE.........................................................................................
46
d. LICENSE PEOPLE WHO LEARN TRADES WHILE IN PRISON..................................................................
47
e. REAUTHORIZE THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT............................................................................................
47
f. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY IN HIRING PRACTICES FOR OFFENDERS..........................................................
48
g. RECOGNIZE HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHERS AS FORM OF INCOME .....................................................
48
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Page 1231 of 1459
FEDERAL FOCUS 2022- 2032
GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
Federal legislative goals for 2026 will focus on commercial air service, water infrastructure, transportation
infrastructure, economic development, safety, public health, and housing.
As funding for the city is reduced due to state policy, alternative revenue sources become even more
critical. Working strategically with the Mayor and City Council, City staff and our partners, we continue to
seek and secure grant funding for City priorities.
3 1 P a g e
Page 1232 of 1459
1. INFRASTRUCTURE: TRANSPORTATION GRANT PROGRAMS
a. BUILDGRANT
BETTER UTILIZING INVESTMENTS TO LEVERAGE DEVELOPMENT (BUILD) GRANT
The City of Dubuque has already benefited from this signature US Department of Transportation funding
program. A $5.7 million TIGER grant was received in 2010 to support the reconstruction of utilities and
complete streets in the Historic Millwork District. Additionally, Dubuque County in partnership with the
City received a $5.4 million BUILD grant in 2019 to support a series of roadway repairs, intersection capacity
and safety improvements, and a trail extension in the vicinity of the John Deere Dubuque Works facility.
The City applied for USDOT TIGER Discretionary Grants in both 2014 and 2017 however our application
requests were not selected. City staff were advised by grant review agency staff that our proposed
infrastructure project grant applications were strong, however the projects were not advanced far enough
in the planning, design, and environmental clearance development phases for selection consideration.
Subsequently, the City applied for a 2021 RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant which was unsuccessful. A
formal debrief with USDOT staff in March of 2022 identified ways in which the project, the narrative and
additional data could strengthen the application.
As a result, in an effort to be better positioned for future Federal Discretionary Grant opportunities, the City
again applied for a 2022 RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant to assist with the planning and design of a
multimodal transportation corridor project for proposed improvements to the Elm Street corridor, the 16th
Street corridor, and the proposed 14th Street Railroad Overpass bridge project.
The 2022 RAISE Planning Grant application proposed a project entitled "Building Bridges to Elevate
Employment (KE2)". Through the grant, the City of Dubuque requested $2,280,000 in USDOT RAISE
Planning funds to assist with the planning and design of a multimodal transportation corridors which will
connect low-income residents with economic opportunities and key community resources in the Kerper
Boulevard Industrial Park, on Chaplain Schmitt Island, in downtown Dubuque and its Historic Millwork
District, and on the west side of the city via the downtown Intermodal Transportation Center.
In August of 2022, the City was notified by the US Department of Transportation that the Building Bridges
to Elevate Employment (B2E2) application was selected to receive RAISE Planning Grant funding. The RAISE
grant funding is summarized in the following table:
Fund Description
Percentage
Fund Amount
RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant
52.1%
$ 2,280,000
Local Funds - City
47.9%
$ 2,100,000
Total Project Cost
100%
$ 4,380,000
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Page 1233 of 1459
BUILDING BRIDGES TO ELEVATE EMPLOYMENT (B2E2)
■ ■ RAISE Planning Grant
PLANNING AND DESIGN FOR MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION CORRIDOR
• 14TH STREET RAILROAD OVERPASS BRIDGE
• 16TH STREET CORRIDOR
• ELM STREET CORRIDOR
• KERPER BLVD. CORRIDOR
Fund Description
Percentage
Fund Amount
RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant
52.1%
$ 2,280,000
Local Funds - City
Local Funds - ORA Contribution
47.9%
$1,350,000
$ 750,000
Total Project Cost
100%
$ 4,380.000
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The City completed the consultant selection process in accordance with the Iowa Department of
Transportation (Iowa DOT) federal aid consultant selection process. AECOM Technical Services, Inc. was
selected as the first -ranked Consultant and the City is through contract negotiations for Professional
Consultant Services to complete the Engineering Design and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) /
Environmental Study Phase to advance development for the B2E2 RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant
project.
On September 5, 2023, the City Council concurred with the Consultant Selection Committee's
recommendation in the selection of AECOM Technical Services, Inc. to complete the Engineering Design
and NEPA / Environmental Study Phase to advance development for the RAISE Infrastructure Planning
Grant for the project entitled "Building Bridges to Elevate Employment (132E2)". AECOM contract was
negotiated, and Iowa DOT / FHWA external audit was approved on January 29, 2024.
City staff, AECOM, Iowa DOT and FHWA staff felt the best approach to develop a contract, scope of
services, and negotiated fee was to separate the design services into 2 phases: Phase I (Concept Design /
NEPA / Public Involvement / Preliminary Design), and a future Phase II (Final Design). Once Phase I
preliminary design and NEPA work elements are completed, City staff will have a more detailed and
comprehensive understanding of the scope of the services needed for the next Phase II (Final Design).
Through a future Supplemental Agreement, a scope of services and fee amount will be developed for Phase
II (Final Design) work.
On February 5, 2024, the City Council awarded the Professional Consultant Services Contract with AECOM
and Notice to Proceed was issued to complete the Phase I - Engineering Design and NEPA / Environmental
Study Phase.
On February 19, 2025, per Resolution NO. 46-24, the Mayor and City Council authorized the City to submit
an application to the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) for a RAISE Capital Infrastructure
Implementation Grant to assist with funding for proposed improvements to construct specific elements of
the Building Bridges to Elevate Employment (B2E2) Project.
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Page 1234 of 1459
On June 26, 2024, the City received an official award notice from the US Department of Transportation for
the RAISE Capital Grant in the amount of $25 Million for the 132E2 project. The total construction cost for
the initial phases of the 132E2 project is estimated to be $38.7 million. In addition to the $25 million RAISE
grant, Dubuque Metropolitan Area Transportations Study (DMATS) will contribute $9.2 million, the City will
contribute $3.6 million, and the Canadian Pacific Kansas City railroad will contribute $1 million.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal level for all the support in
the City receiving RAISE Planning Grant in the amount of $ 2,280,000, and the RAISE Capital Grant
in the amount of $25M. The City of Dubuque requests a categorical exclusion from any further
NEPA/Environmental Study to avoid unnecessary delays.
b. SAFE STREETS FOR ALL (SS4A) GRANT
In February 2023, the City, East Central Intergovernmental Association (ECIA), and our regional local
partners were notified of our awarded Safe Streets for All Grant. The SS4A grant will assist with developing
a regional roadway network comprehensive safety action plan. Iowa State University Institute for
Transportation will lead the effort to development of a comprehensive safety action plan for the regional
roadway network to achieve the long-term objective of reducing transportation related injuries and
working towards zero deaths.
It is the objective of the City, ECIA, and partners to complete an Action Plan so that we have identified
potential roadway or intersection improvement projects which will be well positioned to compete for
future SS4A Implementation grant opportunities.
SAFE STREETS FOR ALL (SS4A) GRANT
■ ■ Comprehensive Safety Action Plan
ZERNIS OUR
A SAFE SYSTEM IS HOW WE GET THERE
FUNDING SUPPORTS LOCAL INITIATIVES TO PREVENT DEATH
AND SERIOUS INJURY ON ROADS AND STREETS, COMMONLY REFERRED
TO AS "VISION ZERO" OR "TOWARD ZERO DEATHS" INITIATIVES
• DEVELOPING A COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY ACTION PLAN (ACTION PLAN)
• SUPPLEMENTAL PLANNING ACTIVITIES: CONDUCTING PLANNING,
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES FOR PROJECTS AND
STRATEGIES IDENTIFIED IN AN ACTION PLAN
Fund Description
Percentage
Fund Amount
Safe Streets For All (SS4A) Grant
80.0%
$ 200,000
Local Funds - City
12.7%
$ 32,000
Partner Funding - Other
7.2%
$ 18,000
Total Project Cost
100%
$ 250,000
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REQUESTED ACTION
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The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal level for all the support in
the City receiving SS4A Grant in the amount of $200,000.
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Page 1235 of 1459
c. DOT TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNITY & SYSTEM PRESERVATION GRANT PROGRAM
BUILD GRANT
Last offered in FY2012, DOT's Transportation, Community & System Preservation (TCSP) grant program
provided $61 million in funding to plan and implement strategies to improve the efficiency of the
transportation system, reduce its environmental impacts, reduce the need for costly future public
infrastructure investments, ensure efficient access to jobs and services, boost smart growth development
patterns, and leverage private investment. As one of the few direct sources of federal transportation
funding available to local governments, the TCSP program should be reintroduced to help meet community
infrastructure needs. The City of Dubuque in 2012 received a $600,000 TCSP grant that helped in the
reconstruction of Elm Street from 91" to 111" Streets. This "Complete Street" is adjacent to the Jule
Intermodal Transportation Center. This street is a key part of the overall Historic Millwork District which has
leveraged this federal funding to help stimulate over $100 million in private redevelopment.
REQUESTED ACTION
Reestablish the DOT Transportation, Community & System Preservation grant program to $1 billion
annually.
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Page 1236 of 1459
2. INFRASTRUCTURE: SURFACE TRANSPORTATION
The Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act is a five-year transportation bill intended to improve
and expand the Nation's surface transportation infrastructure, including roads, bridges, transit systems and
rail transportation network. This legislation passed in December 2015 and provides direction for
transportation activities for five years.
The bill reforms and strengthens transportation programs, refocuses national priorities, provides long term
certainty and greater flexibility for states and local governments, streamlines project approval processes,
and maintains strong commitment to safety. Reauthorization of the transportation bill builds on and
strengthens the innovations begun in MAP-21 in areas such as performance -based planning, safety, design,
and freight planning. FAST Act supports policies which expand choices, bolster public health, and
strengthen communities.
An extension of the FAST Act passed in 2020 expired in October of 2021. A multi -year surface
transportation bill is needed to assure funding for future planning and construction of transportation
projects. Support is needed for the Transportation Alternatives Program including the Recreational Trails
Program and Safe Routes to Schools. Combined these programs provide for bike and pedestrian projects
and safety in our local community. The federal fuel tax was last raised in October of 1993 and is not indexed
to inflation, which increased by 77 percent from 1993 until 2020. A long-term fix is also needed for the
Highway Trust Fund.
The FAST Act expires in September of 2026. Federal surface transportation reauthorization takes place
every five years in Congress and is the process used to renew, fund, and update the programs that build
and maintain the nation's roads, bridges, transit, and multimodal networks.
Reauthorization is one of the most important tools Congress has to shape national transportation policy.
Typically passed every five to six years, these bills establish funding levels, define federal priorities, and
guide how transportation investments are made. These decisions influence which types of projects are
eligible, what outcomes are prioritized (such as safety, mobility, economic development, etc.), and how
regions access and manage federal dollars.
a. BUILD GRANT FOR "IMPROVING THE NORTHWEST ARTERIAL/JOHN DEERE ROAD
CORRIDOR FOR FREIGHT MOBILITY"
Dubuque County was awarded a federal BUILD Grant in the amount of $5,452,023 for "Improving the
Northwest Arterial/John Deere Road Corridor for Freight Mobility" and making capacity and safety
improvements to John Deere Road. The Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair Project was added to the
BUILD Grant project because it is a critical freight route that connects to South John Deere Road. The
Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair Project will also provide the non-federal local match to the
Dubuque County BUILD Grant.
The Northwest Arterial project was originally anticipated to be completed by the Iowa DOT, however as
part of the executed Transfer of Jurisdiction Agreement (TOJ), the City agreed to be the lead local agency
responsible for completing the Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair improvements.
Effective January 29, 2021, the TOJ of the Northwest Arterial was completed from the State of Iowa to the
City as part of the Southwest Arterial project. As part of the roadway transfer, the Iowa DOT has issued a
8 1 P a g e
Page 1237 of 1459
state of good repair payment to the City in the amount of $5,672,000 to complete pavement rehabilitation
and reconstruction of the Northwest Arterial from US20 to Central Ave / IA3.
Due to the federal funds associated with the BUILD Grant, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is
the lead regulatory agency and responsible for administering the project in coordination with the Iowa
DOT. As a result of the Northwest Arterial being incorporated into the BUILD Grant, the FHWA required that
both the Dubuque County John Deere Road Project and the City's Northwest Arterial Project be "tied"
together through the Iowa DOT's Office of Contracts bid letting process. Additionally, since the BUILD Grant
was awarded to Dubuque County, this required the County to be the lead Contracting Authority for both
Projects.
Bids were received on the project by the Iowa Department of Transportation on April 19, 2022 in Ames.
Pirc-Tobin Construction, Inc., of Alburnett, IA submitted the low bid in the amount of $14,416,742.87 for
the overall project which includes the City Northwest Arterial Project and the County John Deere Build
Grant projects. A summary of the project cost breakdown is as follows:
BUILD Project Cost Summary
Total Bid
City - Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair Project
$ 8,674,734.82
Dubuque County - John Deere Road Build Project
6,395,401.42
TOTAL PROJECT COST
$ 15,070,136.24
Work on both the Dubuque County John Deere Road Project and the City's Northwest Arterial Project
began in June of 2022 and was completed in the fall of 2023.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal, state and local level for
supporting the BUILD Grant to allow for capacity and safety improvements to John Deere Road and
the Northwest Arterial freight corridors.
b. EAST -WEST CORRIDOR CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS
The US Highway 20 corridor is the primary east -west route in the City of Dubuque and future traffic volume
projections indicate US Highway 20 alone will not provide sufficient capacity for east -west travel in the City.
Capacity along alternate east -west corridors will need to be improved to provide connectivity between the
western growth areas and the downtown urban core.
In August 2017, the City Council listed the East-West Corridor Capacity Improvement Implementation as a
"Top -Priority" in its 2017-2019 Goals and Priorities and directed City staff to begin implementation plans for
the recommendations contained in the East-West Corridor Connectivity Report. The adopted East-West
Corridor Connectivity Study report acts as the City's Master Plan for both short-term and long-term capacity
improvements or corridor modifications to support growing east -west traffic flow in the City. The study
includes recommended improvements supporting complete streets concepts, multi -modal transportation,
vehicle, pedestrian, bicycle, and recreational improvements.
In an effort to advance this top priority, the City has already completed the following improvements:
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Page 1238 of 1459
Project
Year
Cost
Property Acquisition
2016
$ 853,300
Grandview - Delhi Roundabout
2016
$ 827,000
Loras - Grandview Traffic Signals
2017
$ 370,300
University - Grandview Roundabout
2018
$1,200,000
Total Improvements To -Date
$3,250,300
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The section of University Avenue, from Pennsylvania Avenue to Loras Boulevard, referred to as the
"Overlap Section" was recommended for converting the three intersections along University Avenue to
roundabouts.
In July 2018, the City applied for an $18.1 million U.S. Department of Transportation Better Utilizing
Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant request to assist in funding both multi -modal and
capacity improvements within the identified East-West Corridors. Staff was notified in December 2018 that
the City was not selected to receive a BUILD grant.
101 Page
Page 1239 of 1459
Following the BUILD grant announcement, the City has an opportunity to move forward and advance the
development of East-West Corridor Capacity Improvements utilizing the new Iowa DOT Federal Aid SWAP
Policy. Effective October 2018, the new Federal Aid SWAP Policy allows federal funds normally allocated to
cities or counties to be replaced with State of Iowa Primary Road funds on a dollar -for -dollar basis. The goal
of the new policy is to increase efficiencies and help local governments reduce the level federal oversight,
regulations, and requirements. Additionally, the use of Primary Road funds will be reimbursed at 100% of
eligible costs which eliminates the requirement for local governments to provide a 20% local match.
In January 2019, the City began the process to de -federalize the East-West Corridor project by paying back
the federal funds previously used for property acquisition. On August 19th, 2019, the City received the
FHWA final closure acceptance for the defederalization of funds related to the East - West Corridor project.
With the project defederalization is completed, in December 2020, the SWAP Funding Agreement was
executed with the Iowa DOT which will allow the City to utilize both local City funding and SWAP funding to
begin the preliminary engineering and environmental study phase for intersection capacity improvements
along the University Avenue, Loras Boulevard to Pennsylvania Avenue "Overlap Section".
In December of 2021, the Mayor and City Council approved the selection of HDR, Inc. of Omaha, Nebraska
as the Consultant to complete the Preliminary Engineering Design and Environmental Clearance Phase to
advance the development of East-West Corridor Capacity Improvements along University Avenue.
In March of 2022, with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) funding allocation to the State of
Iowa, the Iowa DOT announced the increase in new federal funds will require additional Primary Road
Funds (PRF) to be used as the State's local match, which will impact the Iowa DOT's ability to provide SWAP
funds for Local Public Agency (LPA) projects. With the reduced Federal -aid SWAP capacity, the Iowa DOT
has informed LPAs that all programs will transition from Federal -aid SWAP to Federal -aid starting in
February 2023 for Cities.
Since the East-West Corridor Capacity Improvements are a multi -year, multi -phased project, which
transitioned from Federal -aid SWAP (100%funding) to Federal -aid (80%/20% funding), in March 2023, the
City was required to identify, and the Mayor and City Council approved as part of the Fiscal Year 2024-2028
adopted budget, the allocation of an additional $2.5 million as the City's 20% local match.
As a result of the funding shift to Federal Aid, this requires the environmental study phase to be elevated to
a Federal NEPA level clearance. Due to the additional level of work to meet the NEPA level regulatory
requirements, this added time required to complete the environmental clearance phase by 12 months and
added an additional cost to the Consultant design services contract. Once the preliminary engineering and
environmental (NEPA) clearance are completed over the next year, corridor impacts will be identified, and
property acquisition could begin. Subject to availability of local match funding, property acquisition could
take approximately 2 years to complete. Once property acquisition is completed within the Overlap Section,
and subject to availability of local match funding, construction to convert the three intersections along
University Avenue to roundabouts could begin and would take approximately 2-3 years to complete.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support City of Dubuque BUILD grant application for East West Corridor improvements.
111 Page
Page 1240 of 1459
NORTHWEST ARTERIAL/HIGHWAY 20 INTERSECTION
The City of Dubuque supports the implementation of capacity improvements along the Highway 20 corridor
and the Northwest Arterial intersection. This intersection is experiencing operational challenges which will
only be compounded now that the Southwest Arterial/ US52 is completed, and commercial traffic is
rerouted from the downtown urban core. The recommended capacity improvements will allow traffic to
travel along Highway 20 more efficiently and safely, from the Northwest Arterial to the Southwest Arterial/
US52 interchange. The Iowa DOT has completed a capacity improvements study and has identified the
preferred roadway corridor and intersection improvement. The Iowa DOT is currently evaluating
alternatives for both funding and phasing the implementation of capacity improvements.
REQUESTED ACTION
Continue to support the Iowa DOT efforts to implement improvements along the Highway 20 corridor
and the Northwest Arterial intersection for safe and efficient travel to the Southwest Arterial/ US52
interchange.
d. SOUTHWEST ARTERIAL (US HIGHWAY 52) PEDESTRIAN / BIKE SHARED USE PATH
After nearly 30 plus years in the making, it is with great appreciation in celebrating the completion of the
Southwest Arterial / US Highway S2 project, which was opened to vehicular traffic on August 17, 2020.
The final cost projection for the fully completed 4-lane freeway is approximately $160 Million. This historic
milestone achievement would not have been possible without the strong collaborative partnerships with
the Iowa department of Transportation and Dubuque County.
Future Initiatives
As part of the 4-lane highway construction, grading was also completed for a future bike pedestrian shared
use path from US Highway 20 to US Highway 61/151. To accommodate the future trail - several of the
bridges along the corridor incorporated a separated shared use on the bridges. A future initiative will be to
pave the 6.1-mile bike pedestrian shared use path which will complete a connection between the Heritage
Trail and the Mines of Spain Recreational Area.
121 Page
Page 1241 of 1459
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal and state level for all the
support in making the Southwest Arterial, our #1 surface transportation project a reality and now is
seeking $6 million to fund paving the bike and pedestrian shared use trail that has been graded as
part of the project.
e. CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS: US HIGHWAY 20
Transportation infrastructure connectivity is essential to a vibrant economy and thriving community.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque supports completion of four -lane construction on Highway 20 to Chicago. To
accomplish this project and other significant highway and interstate capacity improvements, the
City supports efforts to identify a long term, sustainable revenue source that keeps the Highway
Trust Fund fully funded to be used for rebuilding and maintaining infrastructure.
f. PUBLIC TRANSIT FUNDING
The new infastructure BIL provides stable formula funding and competitive grant program to address bus
and bus facility needs. The BIL is greatly appreciated for increasing operational needs, but supply chain
issues are still causing a major delay in technology and equipmen leadtimes and cost increases.
The City of Dubuque has received a planning grant to analyze travel patterns in the community and
develop a replicable model for responding to travel demand through planning of transportation investment
that incorporates all modes - car, bus, bike and pedestrian. The goal of this research is to create a more
efficient and cost effective public transit system modeling tool for cities under 100,000 population.
This research effort and integrated approach to addressing community travel needs will provide
opportunities to expand public transit service to our citizens. Without additional operating funding to
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support current services and new operating grant opportunities to expand services, implementation of this
project could be limited.
Technical assistance for cities interested in undertaking bus rapid transit projects earlier in the planning
stages would also be appreciated. Currently, most planning must be complete and Small Starts funding
already secured for a city to be eligible for this type of assistance. Operational funding to support ongoing
route analysis and planning at the transit system level would be helpful as well.
Capital funding for vehicles and onboard technology replacement are needed. Many vehicles in Iowa, and
Dubuque specifically, are at or near the end of their useful life. Onboard technology provides essential data
for management and dispatch personnel as well as drivers and passengers, but to upgrade or replace this
technology fleet -wide is costly. Stagnant operational funding and limited capital funding opportunities
make developing responsive, cost-effective public transit opportunities difficult.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support increased funding for operational funds through the 5307 program and pursue additional
grant funding for bus replacement to include four new transit vehicles, specifically two smaller,
heavy duty, thirty-foot GILLIG buses and two mini buses.
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3. INFRASTRUCTURE: AIR TRANSPORTATION
AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT AND ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE
Modernize Small Community Air Service Development (SCASD) Essential Air Service (EAS) to meet today's
evolving small community and industry needs.
REQUESTED ACTION
Continue to appropriate funds for Air Service Development and Essential Air Service Programs
identified in FAA Reauthorization Act 2024 and include modification to programs that will help
restore and retain commercial air service in airports that lost all commercial service such as DBQ.
b. AVIATION WORKFORCE SHORTAGE
Congress must take immediate action to address the aviation workforce shortage through multiple programs
and initiatives. Aviation workforce shortages are creating a strain felt across the industry and is being felt
most by the smaller communities who are struggling to maintain their basic service, or have lost service
altogether.
REQUESTED ACTION
Appropriate funds toward Aviation Workforce identified in FAA Reauthorization Act 2024: Aviation
Workforce Development Programs, Airport Service Workforce Analysis
c. REPLACEMENT AND LIABILITY OF AQUEOUS FILM FORMING FOAM
Congress pass the following legislation related to airports past FAA mandated use of PFOS and PFAS in
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF).
REQUESTED ACTION
a. Appropriate the $350 million authorized by the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 towards a
PFAS Replacement Grant Program.
b. Pass Legislation that exempts airports from enforcement actions under the CERCLA or other
State and Local environmental laws related to the use of PFOA/PFAS.
d. TSA AIRPORT WORKER SCREENING
The need for Airport Worker Screening remains necessary in the ever -evolving homeland security
landscape.
REQUESTED ACTION
Require TSA to retain the roles the agency was created to execute following 9/11, instead of placing
that unfunded burden on Airport's. One of TSA's founding purposes was to provide consistent
security screening across the National Airspace System, and now critical security screening tasks are
being placed back into pre-9/11 processes and programs.
e. CONTRACT TOWER PROGRAM
Safety and common-sense dictates continued funding of the ATC program and the contract tower program
or restoration of FAA staffing of these facilities. A United States Department of Transportation Office of
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Inspector General Report Number AV-2013-009, issued on November 5, 2012, found that "a contract tower
cost, on average, about $1.5 million less to operate than a similar FAA tower." The report further stated,
"contract towers had a significantly lower number and rate of safety incidents compared to similar FAA
towers."
REQUESTED ACTION
We urge Congress to continue to fully fund the Contract Tower program
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4. INFRASTRUCTURE: PASSENGER RAIL
Local passenger rail advocates established a passenger rail citizen group, "Ride the Rail," to engage the
public, secure support and promote the return of passenger rail service between Chicago to Dubuque.
The City has been successful in partnership with DMATS and the local Ride the Rail citizen group in securing
state and local funding for the feasibility study of passenger rail return between Chicago and Dubuque.
Federal funding support for passenger rail projects provides the critical next step for the return of passenger
rail service between Chicago and Dubuque.
REQUESTED ACTION
Encourage Illinois Department of Transportation efforts to obtain federal funding for passenger rail
service from Chicago to Dubuque.
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5. INFRASTRUCTURE: WATER
a. WASTEWATER & DRINKING WATER
The nation's wastewater and drinking water infrastructure is experiencing an infrastructure need of $655
billion over the next twenty years. We congratulate Congress on the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure
Legislation (BIL) which includes $105 billion in water infrastructure funds.
The City of Dubuque has ongoing funding needs for drinking water and clean water infrastructure. The State
Revolving Loan (SRF) program has been very effective in helping the City address water infrastructure needs.
For every federal dollar of SRF spending, 21.4% is returned to the federal government in the form of taxes
and on average, 16.5 jobs are created for every 1 million spent through SRF; each job is estimated to bring
about $60,000 in labor income. Infrastructure investments create 16 percent more jobs than equivalent
spending on a payroll tax holiday, 40 percent more jobs than an across-the-board tax cut, and more than five
times as many jobs as temporary tax cuts.
Every million dollars of SRF spending results in $2.95 million of input in the U.S. economy. This is a smart
investment complimenting a narrow federal role of ensuring modern, efficient infrastructure. Since this is a
loan program, SRFs leverage resources from all levels of government and the private sector empowering
state and local governments. SRFs are voluntary, thereby reducing regulatory burdens on businesses.
Dubuque has utilized SRF funds for two major projects, the Bee Branch project and the Water and Resource
Recovery project. Dubuque is poised to now include lead service line replacement funds through SRF or other
federal infrastructure grant funds. The SRF funding source is critical to cities.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque supports the expansion of grant funds and SRF forgivable loans available through
the Bipartisan Infrastructure Legislation (BIL) for water infrastructure needs, particularly the city-
wide lead service line replacement program, the Catfish Creek sanitary sewer improvements, and
other priorities.
b. FLOODWALL IMPROVEMENT & MAINTENANCE
The Senator John C. Culver Flood Wall system was built between 1967 and 1974 at a cost of $11 million
dollars. Over the past fifty plus years it has provided protection valued in the billions of dollars.
The City received $16.2 million in federal funds in 2024 to replace and expand the gates and pumps at the
16th Street detention basin. This project was critical to building greater resiliency in the flood protection
system and is part of the Bee Branch Flood Mitigation Project. These federal funds, provided through the
Economic Development Administration (EDA) and Community Project programming, were essential to
maintaining and enhancing flood protection for Kerper Blvd, the Millwork District, and other adjacent
neighborhoods and businesses.
With the funding secured for the construction of the 16th Street Gates and Pumps priority, the City is now
focused on the South Port of Dubuque.
After Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans and southern Louisiana and Mississippi, the Army Corps of
Engineers (USACE) determined that the failure of multiple "I" walls in the levee system exacerbated the
devastating flood impacts. Subsequently, the USACE recommended that all flood protection systems in the
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US that included "I' walls address this weakness and bury the "I" walls to build greater flood protection and
resiliency. This USACE recommendation did not come with any federal funding programs or opportunities.
Burying the "I" wall in South Port would strengthen the resilience of the John C. Culver Flood Wall system
and create greater protections and flood resilience for the city.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support funding for Dubuque's critical flood prevention infrastructure, including $14.7 million to
bury and strengthen the South Port "I" wall.
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6. INFRASTRUCTURE: BROADBAND & TELECOMMUICATIONS
a. COMMUNICATIONS
Asa member of the National League of Cities (NLC), the United States Conference of Mayors, and the National
Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA), the City of Dubuque joins these
organizations in acknowledging that the historic transformation of our communications infrastructure is
essential to the economic competitiveness of the local governments, states, and the nation.
Preserve local authority to manage public rights of way for the benefit of everyone.
Maintaining public right of way and ensuring shared use for the benefit of the public through partnerships
and cooperative agreements, not only monetary payments, but most importantly a maximum investment in
broadband and communications for the benefit of the community. This is a win -win for the community and
communications providers to get the needed services to residents and businesses in a timely and
economically competitive way.
Protect local authority to establish taxes that are consistent with local needs and maintain adequate
revenue.
Local governments recognize and support efforts to modernize the collection and administration of local
communications taxes, but in a manner that preserves the ability of local government to impose and collect
taxes to fund vital services for its citizens consistent with local values.
Protect and enhance local ability to provide for homeland and hometown security.
Local government's first responders need fully deployed E911, access to spectrum and funding for
interoperable communications to protect the public.
Recognize local roles in promoting nondiscriminatory access to the full range of communications services.
Municipalities are helping to bring advanced services to individuals and small businesses. Cities must have
the autonomy necessary to encourage competition and infrastructure deployment that will lower prices and
improve service quality for their citizens.
REQUESTED ACTION
• Do not nationalize cable and video franchising.
• Protect local governments' ability to facilitate or offer advanced communications services to
their citizens.
• Any changes to the collection and administration of communications taxes, including
extensions or modifications of the Internet Tax Freedom Act, must preserve local authority
to collect revenue consistent with local needs.
• Restore the FCC's Spectrum Auction Authority. The FCC is responsible for managing and
licensing the electromagnetic spectrum for commercial users and for non-commercial users
including state, county and local governments. This includes public safety, commercial and
non-commercial fixed and mobile wireless services, broadcast television and radio, satellite
and other services.
• Immediate necessity for Congress to reauthorize the FCC's authority to auction spectrum
licenses, which is vital for the U.S. to remain competitive in wireless and broadcast services.
• Development of a long-term strategic spectrum pipeline to meet future demand and
maintain U.S. leadership in technological innovation.
Local Government Principles for Communications Policy Modernization
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We believe that Congress and state and local governments can achieve these goals by embracing the
following principles:
• State and Local Authority
The City of Dubuque supports a balanced federalist approach that encourages new
innovation and technology while preserving appropriate authority for state and local
governments to protect their citizens — particularly in relation to public safety and
homeland security, promoting local competition, promoting economic development,
taxation, expansion of access to advanced networks, rights -of -way management, and
consumer protection.
• Public Safety
State and local public safety agencies rely heavily on communications services and systems
to protect public safety. In order for states and localities to carry out this mission, it is
essential that important obligations, such as 911 and CALEA, be applied to all relevant
communications platforms, regardless of technology. States and localities must also have
sufficient spectrum and funding to obtain interference -free, interoperable emergency
communications. In addition, it is important to preserve and strengthen the ability of state
and local government to protect and warn the public through emergency alert systems.
• Use of public property and right-of-way
State and local governments are the trustees of public property and must retain the power
to manage those assets for the benefit and safety of the community.
• Municipal Broadband
State and local governments can play an important role in making advanced services,
including broadband services, available to their citizens, based on specific local needs and
conditions. Federal policy should promote the rights of local governments that choose to
offer those services directly to their citizens.
• Video Franchising
The federal government should not preempt or restrict local authority to negotiate
mutually beneficial agreements and grant franchises to video providers. Public,
educational, and governmental channels are important tools citizens use to participate.
City of Dubuque Supports:
Legislation that preserves and extends municipal government authority to provide communications services
to their constituents.
Legislation that overturns the FCC cable franchise order and returns to the local franchising scheme set out
in the Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984.
The City of Dubuque opposes a wireless tax moratorium.
Ensuring expanded access to multichannel video programming is an important role of local government.
Ensuring fair access to digital resources by addressing inequalities of availability, affordability, and
accessibility of technology —specifically high-speed internet.
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Net neutrality rules require that internet providers treat all internet traffic equally, outlawing practices like
traffic throttling or paying for content to be prioritized.
Expanded Access
States and localities support policies and programs that advance access to communications services and
ubiquitous broadband deployment in all areas of the country. Current initiatives that promote universal and
affordable access to communications services include the federal and state universal service funds, the
ERate program, Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP,) urban and rural infrastructure support
mechanisms, and obligations ensuring equitable cable and broadband deployment.
ACP
Galvanized by the pressure of COVID-19, a bipartisan Congress created the ACP with $14.2 billion in funding
in November 2021. The program provides eligible households a discount on Internet services of up to $30
per month —and up to $75 per month on qualifying Tribal lands. It also provides a one-time discount of up to
$100 towards a laptop, desktop, or tablet from participating providers.
Since then, the ACP has helped provide Internet to over 20.5 million American families and veterans. Thanks
to the ACP, low-income households can afford the access they need for work, education, healthcare, and
democratic engagement in the digital age. The data shows that we are making real progress on the affordable
access problem that has plagued the U.S. for over a generation. Broadband connectivity is essential to
maximizing educational opportunities, stimulating economic growth, lowering healthcare costs, investing in
a skilled workforce, and connecting individuals with their loved ones.
The ACP's funding has expired, relegating those Americans to second-class status again unless Congress
steps up to replenish the fund. In addition to availability and accessibility, ACP directly addresses the best
known factor contributing to the digital divide —price.
REQUESTED ACTION
Government leadership needs to ensure the ACP's continuation and appreciate the urgency. By
extending ACP funding, Congress can ensure the program continues to provide enduring
opportunities for all Americans.
Taxation
States and localities should retain full flexibility, as does the federal government, to structure their tax
policies in ways that best serves their citizens.
Consumer Protection
States and localities are best positioned to respond effectively to a wide variety of consumer concerns,
including but not limited to complaints related to service quality and affordability, reliability, deceptive
practices, billing practices, privacy, and criminal activity.
Wireless Zoning and Siting
It is essential for local communities to be able to address the expansion of wireless facilities to promote the
deployment of advanced communications while also protecting the interests of citizens in safety, sound
planning, and aesthetic concerns. Cellular carriers have petitioned the FCC to create new, onerous
regulations that would make it more difficult for local governments to carry out their responsibilities in this
area. The Communications Act prohibits such FCC regulation. Congress should ensure that the balance
struck in federal law is not overturned by agency action.
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In 2019 the City established a Small Cell Aesthetics guideline which outlined permit procedures, design
standards and location preferences. The goal is to encourage preferred locations, collocation, and
maintaining the unique community character and distinct aesthetics using "stealth" techniques and, for our
residents, providing advance notification of pending applications. Congress should support the City's efforts
in establishing and implementing such standards for the welfare of all.
Local government strongly endorses promoting competition for all consumers and treating like services
alike. The elected leaders of our nation's cities and counties stand ready and willing to welcome video
competition in their communities. Centralizing franchising at the federal or state level, however, limits the
benefits of head -to -head video competition to a chosen few, and deprives consumers of important
protections.
The FCC
Although the courts have upheld the transparency rule but vacated the no -blocking and no -unreasonable -
discrimination rules, there is no guarantee from the FCC of net neutrality. The new arrangement stands to
benefit large ISPs immensely while potentially harming small start-ups, entrepreneurs, and consumers
especially in locations where providers are limited.
Although there is a disclosure requirement and providers are prevented from engaging in unfair, deceptive,
and anticompetitive practices, issues will be handled after occurring and providers could bypass unfair
practices in the name of "reasonable, network management."
REQUESTED ACTION
1. States where statewide or state-controlled franchising is currently in place do not see greater or
faster video competition deployment than states where it is not.
2. Franchises do not just provide permission to offer video services. They are the core tools local
government uses to manage streets and sidewalks, provide for public safety, enhance
competition, and collect compensation for private use of public land. Eliminating local franchises
deprives local government of the power to perform basic functions.
3. Competition is for everyone. Current national policy implemented through franchises
encourages competition throughout the country, not just in urban or suburban areas and not
just for the wealthy. In less than ten years, under the current system, broadband service has been
made available to 91 percent of all homes passed by cable.
4. Neither Congress nor the FCC should try to manage local streets and sidewalks from Washington.
National franchising would abrogate a basic tenet of federalism by granting companies access to
locally owned property on federally defined terms.
5. Market factors, not local governments, control the pace of new broadband deployment.
Telephone companies have not yet seriously dedicated resources to negotiate franchises in many
markets. Potential video competitors require relatively few franchises to implement their
announced business plans (for AT&T 1,500-2,000 franchises, for Verizon 100-200 franchises).
Tech Entrepreneurship and Competition.
States and localities benefit from, and support, competition and innovation and technology neutrality.
When a fully competitive market does not exist, states and localities must retain the authority to ensure
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nondiscriminatory access to essential facilities, to prevent incumbents from using market power to stifle
competition and innovation, and to maintain consumer safeguards when market forces fail.
There are arguments for and against net neutrality. The City of Dubuque supports efforts for Internet to
remain a level playing field for all and the FCC to protect an "open internet." Given Dubuque's focus on
small business and innovation, Dubuque would likely be impacted by the anti -competitive risks that come
with ending net neutrality more than other Iowa communities.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City supports legislation that would restore net neutrality.
Broadband Acceleration Initiative
In 2016 the City of Dubuque launched its Broadband Acceleration Initiative. Operating primarily in
public/private collaborations, the Initiative has been a resounding success by increasing broadband access,
capacity, speeds, and competitors. Every business center has redundant high-speed access and a five-year
fiber -to -the -home build -out is underway. Recently the City has added a strong fair access component to
the initiative, beginning with free local Wi-Fi and low-cost access options in our lowest income census
tracks. Universal, affordable, high-speed access is the goal, and we are making progress. However, that
progress is hampered by outdated governmental data, policies, and funding priorities. We believe that the
following Federal Broadband Initiatives/Efforts are critical to the continued success of Dubuque's
Broadband Acceleration Initiative.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Continued efforts to produce Immediate and accurate revision of FCC broadband access maps.
It has been acknowledged by industry and both political parties that these maps, which underly
both federal policy and funding decisions on broadband, are outdated, use inaccurate
information and are subject to manipulation by incumbent carriers.
2. Until consensus mapping and data is available, uncouple federal broadband funding decisions
from the current FCC "targeted service area" calculations. As an example, when using ACS
census data, Dubuque shows several lower -income census tracts where 25% to 30% of
households reporting no consistent internet access. However, the "TSA" map by the FCC shows
no (zero) targeted service areas anywhere in the community of Dubuque.
3. Utilize a definition of "served" areas in the realm of broadband connectivity to include the
measures of affordability, availability and accessibility. The problems of available, affordable,
and accessible connectivity, in light of a growing number of devices, and capacity to deliver a
consistent, usable broadband technology in more densely populated areas are significant
factors contributing to the uneven digital access that exists among residents.
Provide flexibility for the USDA ReConnect Loan and Grant Fund and other broadband access programs to
allow rural and small urban areas (under 100,000 in population) to collaborate on broadband infrastructure
and costs. These areas are intimately connected via transportation networks, labor -sheds, power systems,
and the like. The ability to scale rural efforts via collaboration with small urban areas would accelerate
broadband access to both. From a policy perspective, allow municipalities to treat broadband access as an
essential corporate purpose and dissuade state policymakers from creating state level barriers for
municipal action on broadband.
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b. BROADBAND DATA ACT
The availability of accurate and readily accessible data, consistent collection methods across all
carriers/providers and data visualization tools provides a potential means of maintaining an open and fair
internet. By guaranteeing comprehensive, quality information on broadband access, bandwidth, and
speeds across all delivery methods, will result in an ability for cities to monitor services in our communities
The outcome of this initiative is the ability to identify and respond to gaps in telecommunications access in
communities most needing broadband services.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support the FCC must collect and disseminate granular broadband service availability data
(broadband maps) from wired, fixed -wireless, satellite, and mobile broadband providers. To do this,
the FCC is required to establish the Broadband Serviceable Location Fabric (a dataset of geocoded
information for all broadband service locations, atop which broadband maps are overlaid) as the
vehicle for reporting broadband service availability data. Additionally, the FCC must put forth
specified requirements for service availability data collected from broadband providers, and it must
create a challenge process to enable the submission of independent data challenging the accuracy
of FCC broadband maps within reasonable windows of time.
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7. INFRASTRUCTURE: PARKS AND RECREATIONAL AREAS
a. LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND (LWCF) - OUTDOOR RECREATION LEGACY
PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM (ORLP)
Land and water conservation fund has been critical to the development of outdoor recreational
opportunities in Dubuque. Past grant awards have funded softball field development for youth and adults,
open space development in the area of historically significant places along the Mississippi River, and
expansion of the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center at the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area. Each of these
developments has been very important to expansion of outdoor recreation. Increased funding of this
program is critical to Dubuque as a partnering source for enhancing outdoor recreation for our citizens
which increases the health and well-being of the community.
The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program awards grants through LWCF supporting
development of new parks and renovating outdoor recreation infrastructure in underinvested urban
communities. Dubuque has leveraged this program twice for a two-phase redevelopment of Dubuque's
Comiskey Park. Phase 1 is complete and has been transformational to the neighborhood, and Phase 2 will
complete the project in 2026-27. It is a gamechanger. This funding is critical to the efforts where every
person, no matter your zip code, can access quality parks and green spaces.
REQUESTED ACTION
Pass the Outdoors for all Act which could codify the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership
Program into law. Increase the overall funding of LWCF and support Land and Water Conservation
Fund (LWCF) state assistance program receives 40% of LWCF funding as projects are more
expensive every year.
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8. CITY/COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES/PROTECTIVE SERVICES
a. COMBINED COMMUNICATION CENTER
The need for a combined 911 Communications Center and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has been
brought to the forefront of the public safety committee after multiple recent events. The current
communications center is undersized for the needs of our increased population and calls for service. The
center is unable to expand to meet the increasing demands of the emergency calls and for future
technologies. The recent disasters that occurred in Dubuque County and the State of Iowa brought the need
for a dedicated emergency operations center to the forefront. The city and county now use the classroom
areas of the Dubuque County Firefighters Training Center which is converted as needed to an EOC operation.
An extended flooding event along the Mississippi River or any other long-term disaster would tax the
resources of the city and county and the current set up would hamper our response to disasters. We are
experiencing more major weather events and disasters, and we have received eight presidential disaster
declarations in the past 18 years. With the recent Pandemic, the Communications Center had to spit into two
rooms because there was not enough room for the dispatchers to be socially distant from one another due
to the small size of the Center. Several call takers had to be moved to another room which caused a slowdown
in response times due to not being in the same room. The City's 911 center needs to have room available for
expansion. A dedicated EOC will allow local government the ability to enhance response and recovery
operations following an event it would also assist us in preparing for planned events that overtax our
response capabilities.
REQUESTED ACTION
Assist the City of Dubuque and Dubuque County in identifying funding support for a combined 911
Center/EOC estimated to cost $16-$19 million dollars.
b. CONTINUE SUPPORT FOR ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTER GRANTS
In weighing opportunities for future expansion of fire units, the City must support vital federal programs
like the Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) grant program. This program can help the City as it seeks to expand
firefighter and paramedic numbers in the future.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support federal efforts to maintain and expand the Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) grant program,
including the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response program.
c. FIRE STATION CONSTRUCTION GRANTS
Fire Station Construction Grants Act authorizes $1 billion in fire station construction grants to be
administered by FEMA. Specifically, it directs FEMA to establish a grant program to modify, upgrade, and
construct fire and EMS department facilities. These grants can be used for:
• Building, rebuilding, or renovating fire and EMS department facilities;
• Upgrading existing facilities to install exhaust emission control systems;
• Installing backup power systems;
• Upgrading or replacing environmental control systems, such as HVAC systems;
• Removing or remediating mold;
• Constructing or modifying living quarters for use by personnel; and
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• Upgrading fire and EMS stations or building new stations to meet modern building codes and
standards as set by the National Fire Protection Association and International Code Council.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support all congressional efforts to introduce and pass the Fire Station Construction Grants Act to
provide funds to the City for the purpose of building new fire and EMS facilities.
d. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS SERVICES PROGRAM
The U.S. Department of Justice's (DOJ) Community Relations Services (CRS) office is the only federal agency
dedicated to working with community groups to resolve conflict and prevent hate crimes. DOJ CRS provides
facilitation, mediation, training, and consultation services to improve communities' abilities to problem solve
and build capacity. New resources are necessary to rebuild trust between local police departments and the
communities they serve. CRS could launch a mini -grant program (up to $20,000 per community) to support
facilitated discussions among police departments, civic groups and institutions, and residents, seeking to
foster community policing approaches and address barriers to trust across groups.
REQUESTED ACTION
Expand the DOJ's Community Relations Services program to $30 million annually.
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9. HOUSING
a. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDING
The City of Dubuque relies on CDBG money to fund many of its vital programs. Projects that are at least
partially funded by CDBG include rehabilitation of rental and owner -occupied housing, lead paint hazard
abatement, commercial and industrial building rehabilitation and economic development, childcare referral
services, credit repair programs, to support operations of several non -profits providing direct services to
income -eligible individuals and families, as part of the community development/neighborhood strategy
program. CDBG can be used to further weatherization efforts, and other initiatives proposed as separate
increases in the budget. Preparing additional rules and regulation for new programs, when the outcomes
can be met in existing programs causes duplicative administrative efforts and required funding for those
duplicated efforts. Focusing on programs that are established and produce stated outcomes will help
decrease the overall budget of the United States.
The CDBG formula funding has never been adjusted for inflation (since the inception of the program in
1974), even though construction costs, wages, and other program costs have escalated sharply in the past
four decades. Continued funding of CDBG is needed to provide the flexibility for communities to fund a
myriad of activities, fill gaps where needed, and attract additional resources to projects.
In the FY26 Senate Appropriations Bill, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) is funded at $3.1
billion (decreased from $3.3 billion, or 6%, in the prior year). CDBG resources create economic
opportunity, suitable living environments, and provide decent housing. Nearly half of the households in the
City of Dubuque are considered at or below moderate income by HUD's standards, meaning CDBG
resources impact a significant number of our local community members. We strongly encourage the
consideration to increase CDBG funding in FY 2026.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque asks our congressional members to support the U.S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development's Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) and urge you to
appropriate $3.3 billion in formula funding for the program in FY 2026. CDBG has been critical in
meeting the public improvement, public services, economic development, and affordable housing
needs in our community. The City of Dubuque also requests increased funding for the
administration of the federal Housing Choice Voucher Program.
b. MOBILE HOME COMMUNITY PROTECTIONS
Legislation related to mobile homes and mobile home communities was adopted at a time when mobile
homes were truly mobile. Today, mobile homes are more stationary than they have been
historically. However, the laws both in Iowa and other states have not been updated to reflect this
important and highly consequential change. Today, some companies are using current law to their financial
benefit and to the detriment of mobile home community residents. These predatory practices are putting
vulnerable citizens in financially precarious situations and sometimes in financial jeopardy. Mobile home
communities can be a viable choice in Iowa's efforts to create affordable housing opportunities across the
state. Therefore, review and reform of current law is vital.
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REQUESTED ACTION
Support Senate Appropriations proposed funding level of $10 million for competitive PRICE grants.
c. AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS
Homelessness is increasing across the nation due to increased untreated mental health issues, lack of
affordable housing, and inflation. Eviction rates in the City of Dubuque are increasing due to the lack of
ability to pay rent. Rents are increasing faster than the cost of living due to a low vacancy rate, which is
seen across the nation due to a shortage of housing units.
The significant changes proposed by the President's requested FY26 budget would consolidate many of the
funding streams under the Homelessness Assistance Grants into one ESG block grant, and would eliminate
Continuum of Care funding, which is necessary for permanent supportive housing and rapid rehousing by
some of our nation's most vulnerable populations.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support a minimum of $4.5 billion for HUD's homeless assistance grants, including at least
$290 million for the Emergency Solutions Grant program. Reject the consolidation of grant
streams under HAG funding; support the Continuum of Care program at $4 billion.
• Support funding of the National Housing Trust Fund and support a direct allocation to local
governments once the funds reach $1 billion.
d. ANCHOR INSTITUTIONS
ANCHOR institutions, including hospitals and healthcare systems, colleges, universities, and cultural
institutions, are driving economic development, job creation, and private investments in the struggling
communities they serve. Over the past decade, a national ecosystem of professional associations,
foundations, networks, and consultants has evolved to develop and implement anchor institution -centered
approaches to produce targeted community benefits. With this national network of resources in place,
federal investment could play a key role in catalyzing and supporting the power of anchor institutions to
create vibrant communities. America's cities and towns call for the creation of a new Anchoring
Neighborhoods, Communities & Housing to Opportunities for Revitalization (ANCHOR) Institutions Initiative
at HUD that would provide $250,000 strategic planning grants to communities to boost economic
development and revitalization in neighborhoods through collaboration with key local anchors. These HUD
ANCHOR grants would support a local plan and/or pilot program that aligns shared interests and leverages
partners' respective strengths to promote improvement in key impact areas: affordable housing, ,
educational fair access, health and wellness, safe and accessible neighborhoods, healthy nutrition, and
workforce development.
REQUESTED ACTION
Create a HUD "ANCHOR Institutions Initiative" $25 million annually.
e. HOMES FOR EVERY LOCAL PROTECTOR, EDUCATOR AND RESPONDER (HELPER) ACT OF
2023
The HELPER Act (S. 1514 / H.R. 3170) seeks to amend the National Housing Act to create a tailored
mortgage insurance program for first responders and teachers. The HELPER Act aims to provide favorable
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mortgage terms and conditions for eligible first responders, including law enforcement officers, firefighters,
paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and teachers. By establishing a dedicated mortgage
insurance program, the bill eliminates the traditional mortgage down payment requirement and monthly
mortgage insurance premiums, which can be substantial barriers to homeownership.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support passage of the HELPER Act S. 978 / HR 2094
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10. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
1111_ INTO a 10910 :_u
Over the past five years, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has dramatically expanded
its role in supporting local and regional economic resilience. Since 2019, EDA has invested more than $6
billion across 3,000+ projects nationwide, targeting communities facing economic distress, industry
disruptions, disasters, and recovery needs. These investments have helped create or retain over 550,000
jobs and have leveraged more than $67 billion in private investment, demonstrating EDA's ability to unlock
substantial non-federal capital for infrastructure, workforce, entrepreneurship, and innovation initiatives.
EDA funding remains highly competitive and consistently oversubscribed, even as communities face
increasing costs for job -creating infrastructure, industrial site readiness, technology adoption, and
workforce training. Recent federal emphasis on advanced manufacturing and innovation underscores EDA's
growing importance as a catalyst for local economic competitiveness.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City respectfully requests that Congress increase annual EDA appropriations and maintain
strong support for programs that fund industrial sites, workforce facilities, innovation
infrastructure, and community revitalization. Additional capacity in these programs would allow
cities like ours to compete more effectively for transformational projects and accelerate private -
sector investment that strengthens local economies.
b. FEDERAL HISTORIC TAX CREDITS
The Federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit is the nation's largest federal incentive promoting urban and rural
revitalization through private investment in reusing historic buildings. The credit encourages reinvestment
in downtowns, generates jobs, and is instrumental in preserving the historic places that give cities, towns,
and rural areas their unique character. For every one dollar invested through the Federal Historic
Preservation tax credit, five dollars are leveraged from the private sector. The credit is not paid until all the
restoration work is complete and approved by the US Department of Interior. Dubuque has seen total
improvements valued at $925million since 1985 in the downtown/Main Street.
The City of Dubuque strongly supports the continuation and expansion of the Federal Historic Tax Credit
(HTC), recognizing its transformative impact on revitalizing historic communities and driving economic
development. As a city deeply committed to preservation, we align with the advocacy efforts of the
National Trust Community Investment Corporation and the National Trust for Historic Preservation in
emphasizing the HTC's role as a vital tool for fostering public -private partnerships and enhancing the
unique character of our neighborhoods. Historic rehabilitation projects supported by the HTC have
catalyzed investment in Dubuque, creating jobs, attracting tourism, and maintaining the integrity of our
historic architecture. With the 119th Congress poised to address significant tax policy reforms, we urge
lawmakers to protect and improve the HTC, ensuring it remains a strong driver of community revitalization
nationwide. Dubuque stands ready to collaborate with national preservation organizations, the Historic Tax
Credit Coalition, and advocates nationwide to ensure robust congressional support for this critical
program.
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Of note: The Historic Tax Credit Coalition is working on a legislative proposal to eliminate the basis
reduction requirement for the Historic Tax Credit in its entirety. Experts estimate that making this change
would almost entirely make up for the lost value from the new requirement that the credit be taken over
five years.
REQUESTED ACTION
We urge you to support the HTC-GO and companion legislation, which will make redevelopment
projects more financially feasible and unlock substantial private investment that strengthens
Dubuque's historic districts and drives long-term economic growth.
c. NEW MARKET TAX CREDIT PROGRAM
The New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) program remains a valuable financing tool for major economic
development projects in Dubuque, including the Historic Millwork District and the Dubuque Pack site
redevelopment. With the program now permanently authorized under HR 1-2025, communities can plan
projects with greater long-term certainty. However, rural states and smaller communities continue to face
challenges accessing NMTC allocations at the same rate as larger metropolitan areas. Enhancing rural
access and encouraging more equitable allocation practices would strengthen Dubuque's ability to leverage
the program for transformational projects.
While the NMTC's flexibility is an advantage, its complexity still drives up legal, accounting, and Community
Development Entity (CDE) costs, which can significantly reduce the net equity available to a project.
Streamlining compliance and reducing transaction costs would improve the program's effectiveness —
particularly for smaller or mid -sized projects typical in rural regions —and ensure that more of the incentive
directly supports community revitalization.
REQUESTED ACTION
We ask our federal delegation to support reforms that increase access to NMTC allocations, reduce
transaction costs, and ensure that the program more effectively supports mid -sized community
redevelopment projects such as those underway in Dubuque.
d. CHILDCARE
Access to quality affordable childcare supports our economy by allowing parents to participate fully in the
workforce. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 70% of children under the age of 6 in the United
States have all available parents in the workforce, and 55% of children under the age of 5 participated in
regular weekly care arrangements prior to COVID-19. More recently, especially post -pandemic, a
substantial share of parents report no formal child-care arrangement at all. In a 2022-2023 survey, 35% of
parents with children under 5 said they had no childcare arrangement.
In general, today's childcare model is not sustainable for either the parent or the childcare provider — the
cost is too high for parents to afford compared to their wages, and simultaneously the wages for the
childcare providers are too low to attract and retain quality employees. Creating supports for both parents
and childcare providers bolsters our workforce and helps our employers retain employees with children.
COVID-19 has exacerbated this issue.
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REQUESTED ACTION
• Increase the allowable pretax contribution limit for employer -sponsored Dependent Care
Assistance Plans (DCAPs) so families have greater flexibility and financial capacity to keep pace
with rising childcare costs.. The current federal limit — $5,000 per household per year — has
not increased in decades and is far below the actual annual cost of childcare in most states
(often $10,000—$18,000 for infants).
• Support legislation and increased federal appropriations —particularly through the Child Care
and Development Block Grant (CCDBG)—that raise wages and expand benefits for childcare
providers to stabilize and grow the childcare workforce.
e. EPA BROWNFIELDS PROGRAM
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Brownfields & Land Revitalization program — first established
in the mid-1990s and reauthorized under the Brownfields Utilization, Investment, and Local Development
(BUILD) Act — continues to serve as a bipartisan success. The program provides grants and technical
assistance to support environmental assessments, cleanup, reuse planning, job training and community
engagement to help transform closed factories, abandoned gas stations and other contaminated or under-
utilized properties into productive community assets. As of fiscal year 2025, the program has supported the
assessment of 41,871 properties, cleanup of 2,969 properties, and preparation of 175,385 acres for
anticipated reuse. According to EPA, these efforts have helped leverage approximately $44 billion in
combined public and private investment and supported about 226,567 jobs. In May 2025, EPA awarded
$267 million in Brownfields grants nationwide — the largest single round of funding to date — signaling a
major expansion in capacity. Nevertheless, demand still outpaces supply: many well -scored applications do
not receive full funding.
REQUESTED ACTION
Congress should permanently reauthorize the EPA Brownfields Program at or above the historical
authorized level ($250 million annually or more), and ensure that subsequent appropriations reflect
that authorization. Bolstered by recent infusion of funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,
long-term stable funding would support brownfields cleanup and reuse, spur economic recovery
and resiliency, and advance renewable energy deployment, greenspace creation, and equitable
redevelopment.
f. ARTS & CULTURE
Arts, culture, the creative economy, and related educational opportunities are powerful forces in our
nation's economy. The sector drives tourism and arts -related commerce supports American workers —from
graphic and software designers to scholars, architects, artists, performers, and curators - while inspiring our
communities in entrepreneurial efforts. Arts and culture institutions and programs allow Americans to
dream of fresh possibilities and to expand their horizons as thinkers and citizens in a world of complex ideas
and technologies, as well as to contribute to the cultural legacy of the nation. Access to creativity, the arts,
and cultural expression is an inherent good; it also can awaken the potential for a better quality of life and
advances efforts to preserve and give voice to diverse cultures. Engagement with the arts and cultural
experiences allows Americans to fully realize their creative and imaginative potential rooted in cultural
heritage as individuals and as communities. This area of legislative consideration also includes funding and
support for nationwide humanities work through federal organizations such as the National Endowment for
the Humanities (NEH) which supports the research, education, preservation, and public programs in the
humanities.
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• In 2023, the arts, culture, and creative economy generated over $1.2 trillion in economic
activity, representing 4.2% of the GDP. -In 2024, non-profit arts and culture organizations and
their audiences generated $151.7 billion in economic activity which leveraged an additional
$78.4 billion in event -related expenditures by their audiences.
• The United States has exported more arts and cultural goods and services than it imported
since 2006, including during the Great Recession. The US arts and culture trade surplus
increased from $21.5 billion to $36.8 billion between 2022 and 2023.
• The arts and culture sector supported 5.4 million jobs in 2023. In 2022 arts and culture
provided $101 billion in personal income to residents and generated $29.1 billion in tax
revenue to local, state, and federal governments.
• The NEH budget serves as a significant leveraging tool that has helped create an entire industry
of locally based small business and jobs that cannot be outsourced. The NEH estimates that its
2025 investment in grantees will include $9.55 million in support of projects in the humanities.
• The National Endowment for the Arts awarded funds to 1,474 organizations totaling
$36.79million to support the arts in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington DC. A significant
percentage of NEA grants go to those who have fewer opportunities to participate in the arts.
34% of Arts Endowment grants take place in high -poverty neighborhoods, reaching low-income
audiences of underserved populations. The majority of grants go to small and medium sized
organizations (with operating budgets of less than $2million).
The Dubuque City Council prioritizes arts and culture, identifying access to diverse arts and culture
experiences for all as one of eight 2037 goals. In 2015, the Arts & Culture Master Plan was commissioned
and funded, with the resulting plan adopted in 2016. Since 2005, the City has provided over $5.04 million
dollars in financial support to Dubuque arts and cultural organizations through direct grant programs that
support operations and new projects and a rotating public art program. According to a 2022 Arts &
Economic Impact Study conducted by Americans for the Arts, Dubuque's non-profit arts and culture sector
in Dubuque generates $ 70.4 million in annual economic activity, supports 1,527 FTE jobs, generates $6.7
million in local and state tax revenues, and infuses $41.6 million in household incomes to local residents.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Support the administration's FY26 budget request of $209. million for the National Endowment
for the Arts (NEA).
2. Support the administration's FY26 budget request of $209 million for the National Endowment
for the Humanities (NEH).
3. Support the administration's FY26 budget request of $294.8 million for the Institute of Museum
and Library Sciences (IMLS) within the Labor, Health and Education appropriations bill.
4. Support continued investment in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESSA) and its
Assistance for Arts Education (AAE) program.
5. Continue funding the FY24 $2.2 billion Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants
provisions of ESSA under Title IV, Part A, as well as to make explicit the opportunity for the arts
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to help achieve the equitable access objectives of Title I and the professional development
opportunities for arts educators under Title 11.
6. Support the Artist -Museum Partnership Act (H.R.1793) which would allow artists to take
income tax deductions for the fair market value of their work when they donate it to charitable
collecting institutions and enact 5.618/H.R. 1704 and pass the Legacy IRA Act (5.243) to expand
and strengthen charitable giving to the nonprofit arts sector.
7. Support inclusion and investment in arts in health programs such as the National Initiative for
Arts and Health Across the Military led by Americans for the Arts.
8. Support the collection of federal creative economy legislation under consideration. Through
public policy, these seven bills can collectively achieve a stronger creative sector, which would
drive economic growth and social cohesion, ensuring a better and more creative life for all:
a. CREATIVE: Bill number: H.R. 2485, sponsored by Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici
(OR-01) -- The Arts Education for All Act supports and encourages arts education and
programming for youth and adults in early learning centers, K-12 schools, and juvenile
justice facilities by clarifying that certain federal programs may support arts education,
and requiring states to make a plan to increase access to ats education programs in K-
12 schools and juvenile justice facilities..
b. PLACE: Bill numbers: HR 6569 / 5.3560, sponsored: Sen. Edward Markey (D-MA),
Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR)- The Promoting
Local Arts and Creative Economy Workforce Act (PLACE Act) bolsters local creative
economies and workers in creative industries. It amends existing legislation to include
the arts, creates new creative economy grants, and directs funding for creative
businesses.
c. CREATE: Bill numbers: HR 6381 / 5.3759 , sponsors: Sen. Brian Schatz (D-HI) John
Cornyn (R-TX) Comprehensive Resources for Entrepreneurs in the Arts to Transform the
Economy Act (CREATE Act) aligns policy to serve those that make our creative economy
prosper. It expands SBA and EDA loan programs and integrates creative work into
support programs.
d. PATPA: Bill numbers: HR 721 / S. 1121, sponsors: . Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) , Jeanne
Shaheen (D-NH)-- The Performing Arts Tax Parity Act (PATPA), a bi-partisan bill in both
the House and the Senate, updates the Qualified Performing Artist tax deduction,
modernizing a provision that has been on the books since it was signed into law in the
1980's so that middle-class arts workers can deduct common business expenses.
9. Support legislation to invest in the country's creative economy and promote economic
inclusion; to recognize artists, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit arts organizations as contributors
to the small business community; improve and revitalize rural, remote, and underserved areas;
and support the creative economy through federal programs and actions. Direct the SBA and
other agencies to ensure existing economic development programs and tools encompass the
creative economy; ensure inclusion of creative fields in vocational education and training
supports; increase comprehensive measurement of the impact of the creative economy on the
overall US economy.
10. Support legislation and programs that improve the health and well-being of the military and
veterans' populations through the arts.
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11. PUBLIC HEALTH
a. PUBLIC HEALTH FUNDING
For over 20 years, local public health agencies have been creating, refining, updating, and utilizing their
Public Health Emergency Preparedness Response Plans (PHEPRP.) Before and soon after the 9/11 attacks,
local public health followed the national initiative of preparing for biological, chemical, radiological,
weather, and other public health related disasters and emergencies. Simultaneously, we experienced more
and more newly emerging infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS, resistant TB, MRSA, West Nile, Ebola,
Zika, Cyclospora, E. coli 0157:H7, SARS, MERS, H1N1 influenza, Toxic Shock Syndrome and COVID-19. These
along with re-emerging outbreaks of diseases we thought we had conquered such as mumps, measles and
whooping cough continue to persist along with outbreaks from new sources or ways of spread from
pathogens such as crypto sporidia, giardia, salmonella, shigella, and Hantavirus. Congress responded to
most of these with limited term, disease specific and preparedness planning funding to states, who in turn
funded local health departments and public health agencies through grant processes. As the outbreaks
subsided and healthcare learned to treat the infectious diseases the funding was reallocated to other
priorities or cut entirely. This reactionary, short-term public health funding does not create a system or
public health agencies are ready to respond to epidemics and pandemics and weather -related emergencies
etc. in a timely and effective manner.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Public health requires ongoing funding, education, and resources to prepare for and respond to
public health emergencies, including those that happen at the state, local, federal and world
levels. A robust national disease data collection and analysis system is needed to prepare for
future, outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics.
2. ARPA and CARES money is one-time and specifically for COVID relief. Local public health
agencies (LPHAs) need dedicated, reliable, and flexible funding to deliver on their community
Health Needs Assessments and Health Improvement Plans (CHNA/HIPs) and address the "social
morbidities" of COVID that will be seen for years if not generations to come.
3. Strengthen the Public Health Workforce through increased funding for state and local public
health infrastructure. Specifically, by supporting incentives to diversify the public health
workforce and increase public health and healthcare training and loan forgiveness programs
4. Support the creation of a $4.5 billion mandatory fund for core public health infrastructure
activities at the CDC and state, local, tribal and territorial public health departments. The Public
Health Infrastructure Saves Lives Act would establish this funding to support essential activities
such as: disease surveillance, epidemiology, laboratory capacity, all -hazards preparedness and
response; policy development and support; communications; community partnership
development; and organizational competencies. A reliable, long-term funding stream for these
activities is essential for anticipating and responding to future public health emergencies like
the COVID-19 pandemic.
b. LEAD POISONING PREVENTION
In 2025, significant cuts were enacted for the CDC's Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP),
including eliminating most of the program's staff and potentially cutting its $51 million annual funding,
which halted state assistance for surveillance, testing, and prevention efforts for lead exposure in children,
creating major concerns for local health departments. The City of Dubuque receives some of this funding
from Iowa Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct lead poisoning prevention and case management
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of lead poisoned children activities. Local health departments rely on the states' ability to compile, track
and analyze data, providing epidemiology expertise on a state and local level.
REQUESTED ACTION
Restore CDC Lead Poisoning Prevention Funding in the National Center for Environmental Health to
continue funds to states, keep CDC health tracking programs, and restore lead poisoning expertise
at the CDC.
c. LEAD IN DRINKING WATER
The EPA's new Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) rule mandates that all states develop plans to
replace all lead service lines within a decade, with some flexibility for states with extensive infrastructure.
Federal funding is crucial for municipalities to comply with these regulations. Additional costs for Lead
Service Line Replacement (LSLR) under the EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) stem from the
mandated full replacement (utility & private side), potentially increasing average costs to $10,000-$14,000
per line, plus expenses for sampling, inventory, corrosion control, filters, and public education, totaling
billions annually, though federal funds (BIL) and utility strategies aim to offset homeowner burdens and find
efficiencies.
REQUESTED ACTION
Provide adequate funding to states and local municipalities to remove and replace lead service
lines.
d. ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE —SUPPORT INCREASED COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER,
NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE CORPS, AND TEACHING HEALTH CENTER FUNDING
Community Health Centers (CHCs) across the country have consistently demonstrated the value of the care
they provide. Community Health Centers are an affordable and accessible source of primary and preventive
health care for over 52 million underserved individuals nationwide, including 253,000 here in Iowa. In 2025,
Crescent served well over 12,000 patients for medical, dental and behavioral health care, with the total
showing no signs of decreasing. CHC's provide targeted investments to boost services and enhance the
primary care workforce.
One of the largest factors limiting a Community Health Center's ability to provide patients quality care is
recruiting and retaining quality providers. Long-term and Support Iowa community health center's
workforce to address shortages throughout the state, including investments in recruitment and retention
strategies, training, and loan repayment with a focus on dentists, dental assistants, medical assistants,
nurses, hygienists, and other support staff.
The National Health Services Corps (NHSC) loan repayment and scholar programs are essential recruitment
tools for CHC's and must be sustained. In Iowa, more than 50 providers working in CHCs are current
recipients of NHSC support or have completed their obligations and chose to continue practicing at CHCs.
Additionally, the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) program trains the future
safety net workforce by directly embedding residents within CHCs. CHCs need approximately $20.65 billion
annually in CHC and primary care workforce funding to meet patient demand and continue delivering high -
quality, affordable care.
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REQUESTED ACTION
We urge leaders in both chambers to work together to pass critical, multi -year extension for CHC
mandatory funding at the maximal funding level. We also urge passage of an appropriations
package that protects Community Health Center funding.
Federal grant funding for the Health Center program needs reauthorization. Requested funding
levels include:
• At least $5.8 billion annually for CHCs for two years
• $950 million annually for the National Health Service Corps (NHSC)
• $2.1 billion over five years for the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education
(THCGME) program I
e. PROTECTING ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE PRESCRIPTION DRUGS
The 340B Drug Pricing Program is an essential source of support for Community Health Centers, allowing
them to stretch increasingly scarce federal resources and reinvest in patient care. The program allows CHCs
to purchase outpatient drugs at significantly reduced costs. CHCs then use resources from the program to
expand healthcare services, help patients access affordable prescription drugs, and improve health
outcomes. The 340B program is not funded by taxpayers, and in Iowa, resources generated from Medicaid
patients directly impact the state's budget as Iowa Medicaid retains resources from these patients.
Protecting the 340B Program ensures patients have access to affordable, often life-saving prescription
drugs and CHCs can reinvest resources from the program back into access. As one of the few programs that
is proven to help patients access affordable prescription drugs, we need to safeguard the original intent of
340B.
REQUESTED ACTION
Protect access to the 340B Program to sustain community health centers' essential model of care,
lower prescription drug costs for patients, and improve health outcomes.
Expanding Access to Comprehensive Care- behavioral health and dental services.
All Iowa CHCs currently have waiting lists for behavioral health and/or dental services. Investing in
CHC infrastructure will expand access in Iowa, particularly in rural areas or where access to
healthcare is particularly dire. These investments would support expansion of services and physical
locations, improvements to technology, and allowing CHC remain viable employers and producers
of economic activity in their communities. Investing in this model will reduce healthcare costs, keep
patients from accessing more costly care such as emergency rooms, and generate economic growth
through expanded job opportunities, construction, etc.
REQUESTED ACTION
Appropriate funds for capital expenditures to support community health center infrastructure to
expand access to care.
f. AUTHORIZE PERMANENT MEDICARE TELEHEALTH FLEXIBILITIES
Telehealth services help address geographic, economic, transportation, and linguistic barriers to healthcare
access while boosting staff retention and decreasing no-shows and missed appointments. Because CHCs are
required to offer comprehensive services in areas of high need, including sparsely populated rural areas,
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CHCs are pioneering the use of telehealth to expand access to quality healthcare services, especially
behavioral health services, to their over 31 million patients.
REQUESTED ACTION
Congressional action is needed to extend pandemic telehealth flexibilities to allow CHCs to bill
Medicare for telehealth as a distant site and for audio -only under the PPS rate.
g. IMPROVING MATERNAL CARE ACCESS AND OUTCOMES
Access to quality care is vital both during pregnancy and beyond, providing a foundation for optimal health
for years to come. In 2023, more than 400,000 babies were born in counties with limited or no access to
maternity care. Additionally, healthcare costs related to pregnancy are often very expensive, creating
another barrier to maternity care for many women.
H.R. 9049, introduced by Rep. Zach Nunn, would provide grants to states to assist with coordinated
maternity care through maternal health homes for pregnant women on Medicaid, including community
health centers. Research shows increased access to and utilization of maternity care can reduce instances
of pregnancy -related complications, leading to better health outcomes and lower costs to the healthcare
system overall.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that aims to improve access to maternity care and improve outcomes.
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12. PLANNING
a. HOUSING & ZONING REFORM
Communities across the nation are confronting the urgent challenges of housing supply shortages and
outdated zoning regulations. With a national housing deficit of at least 3.9 million homes, federal
leadership is essential to help localities expand housing options and choices that meet the diverse needs of
residents. Planners urge Congress and the Administration to champion policies that strengthen local
planning capacity, incentivize housing supply solutions, and modernize zoning frameworks to support
attainable, equitable, and abundant housing for all.
Economic pressures —including high interest rates, inflation, workforce challenges, and limited housing
inventory —underscore the need for immediate federal partnership in advancing locally driven reforms. By
aligning federal programs and resources with community -led planning and zoning initiatives, Congress can
help unlock development potential, improve economic mobility, and ensure that local governments have
the tools necessary to address housing affordability and availability. Locally led zoning reform, supported by
strategic federal engagement, is key to building resilient, inclusive, and economically vibrant communities
nationwide.
REQUESTED ACTION
• Provide funding for the Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing (PRO Housing) program
• Fund and finance adaptive reuse housing projects
• Modernize and expand the Low -Income Housing Tax Credit program
• Renew Opportunity Zones with an improved housing focus
• Fund vital federal housing tools, such as Community Development Block Grants, HOME, Choice
Neighborhoods, vouchers, rural housing, and homelessness assistance.
• Improve federal housing finance programs for "missing middle," multifamily, and mixed -use
housing
New funding and fiscal tools are important, but ultimately insufficient to meet the moment and support
critical reforms alone. Congress should also act to provide policy research, models, and data; remove
outdated and unnecessary regulatory barriers; support key code reforms; and align housing supply and
planning with federal infrastructure, economic development, and energy initiatives. Needed policy actions
include:
• Direct HUD, in coordination with DOT and other federal agencies, to expand efforts to provide
frameworks, models, and analysis for local zoning, building code, and land use reforms
• Create new models for modular housing and remove outdated definitions that limit
manufactured and modular housing
• Streamline environmental reviews for targeted housing projects and support state and local
building code reforms
• Ensure policies in key existing housing and infrastructure programs meet today's needs and
support a comprehensive approach to community growth and development
• Incorporate pro -housing policies and local reforms into transportation, infrastructure, and
environmental programs
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b. CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROGRAM
The Certified Local Government (CLG) program was established as part of the National Historic Preservation
Act of 1966 to create federal, state, and local governmental partnerships, provide historic preservation
training and technical assistance, and encourage preservation and wise use of historic resources at the local
level.
In Iowa, the Certified Local Government program is one of the historic preservation offerings of the State
Historic Preservation Office, part of the State Historical Society of Iowa, a division of the Iowa Department
of Cultural Affairs. To participate in the CLG program, a local government must have a local historic
preservation program that complies with CLG program requirements. To qualify for or obtain "certified
status", the local government must demonstrate that its local historic preservation program meets certain
standards.
For the local government, its staff and Historic Preservation Commission, there are some direct benefits of
participating in the CLG program. There is free historic preservation training and technical assistance from
the State's historic preservation staff. Participating cities and counties receive a start-up preservation
reference library for use in developing and administering the program. Cities and counties in the CLG
program qualify for a small, competitive, matching CLG grant program that is open only CLG program
participants. These federal pass -through grants can be used to underwrite all historic preservation activities
except rehabilitation.
In Iowa, the CLG program has helped cities and counties to develop their local historic preservation
programs as a tool to help promote downtown revitalization; to protect, stabilize and revive historic
neighborhoods; and to provide an authentic foundation for heritage tourism.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque supports continued federal funding for the Certified Local Government (CLG)
Program.
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13. SUSTAINABLE & RESILIENT COMMUNITIES
The City of Dubuque identified becoming a more sustainable city as one of its top priorities in 2006. Since
then, multiple strategies and practices have been implemented to make Dubuque a more sustainable
community. In 2016, the City was honored to be recognized as one of the White House's 16 Climate Action
Champions. The City is a member of Climate Communities, ICLEI and the Urban Sustainability Directors
Network and joins those organizations in supporting local government action on climate change and
resiliency as essential for America to achieve energy independence, renew economic prosperity and
preserve biodiversity. We are in the middle of an environmental crisis that most acutely impacts those who
are already marginalized and vulnerable. Federal policies must empower local governments with the tools
and resources to respond to climate and social challenges. We request your support in achieving the
following goals:
• Invest in local climate capacity through annual federal appropriations such as the Storm water
and Drinking Water funding and Green Infrastructure programs.
• Build self-reliant communities that are prepared for climate impacts.
Support community revitalization by enacting legislation that enables basic sustainability
principles, such as historic preservation, improved energy efficiency, brownfield redevelopment,
and community redevelopment.
Local governments rely on the federal government to regulate in sectors where municipalities cannot. This
is especially true for environmental regulation, and we advocate for robust federal environmental
protections to bolster local governments' climate efforts.
Inflation Reduction Act
Maintain the Inflation Reduction Act and the funding made available to local governments to pay for clean
energy, electric vehicles and green building projects; as well as funding for businesses, residents and non-
profits. Specifically maintain tax credits and elective pay provisions and continue the home energy
efficiency and electrification rebates.
Weatherization Assistance Program
Dubuque, like communities across the country, is striving to increase equitable access to affordable housing
for all residents. Excessive energy costs exacerbate the housing cost burden low-income residents
experience. On average, low-income households spend 7.8 percent of annual income on energy services,
compared to 3 percent of income for all households. Recognizing the increasing cost of energy and the
significant impact this required cost has on low- and moderate -income residents, the City advocates for
continued sufficient funding of the Weatherization Assistance Program and that funds be used to invest in
home improvements wherever possible. By investing in improvements rather than assisting with energy
bills, these funds can be used to fix the root of the problem rather than putting a band -aid on it.
National Energy Planning Policy
The City encourages adoption of a long-term, sustainable national energy policy, addressing decreasing
availability of petroleum, energy self-sufficiency, economic competitiveness, greenhouse gas emissions,
environmental protection, and social equity. This policy should recognize and separate the long-term
development of replacement and alternative energy sources from short-term fluctuations in market prices
for energy. This policy should also recognize the impact that energy -efficient land use patterns, building
design, and transportation modalities have on the demand for energy.
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Data and Measurement
The City recognizes the importance of easy, consistent, and affordable access to energy data at the
community level as an integral component of energy, sustainability, healthy communities, and community
planning. We advocate for transparent data processes that allow communities to review utility data while
also ensuring adequate data security and privacy.
PACE Financing
We encourage federal and state legislation supporting Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing so
that the costs associated with energy efficiency improvements can be shared by the property owners who
experience the benefits of those improvements.
Environmental Justice
We support state and federal efforts in striving to attain environmental equity and justice with regard to
the siting of energy facilities, resource extraction, energy generation, distribution infrastructure, and
energy -related waste disposal.
Distributed Energy Generation
The City supports distributed energy generation systems that utilize community energy generation and
"smart grid" public infrastructure that supports both conservation and energy efficiency.
Smart Grid Technology
We support modernization of the nation's electrical grid that will allow for the efficient integration of
innovative technologies such as renewable energy systems and electric vehicles and makes it possible to
offer dynamic electricity pricing options that can reduce strain on the grid while benefitting consumers.
Advances in metering technology also create opportunities to provide consumers with access to more
information about their electricity usage and costs, which can inform their decisions about energy
consumption.
Research and Development
The City recognizes that in the short-term, oil, coal, and natural gas will continue to be significant sources of
energy for the United States and other nations until other forms of energy can be developed at a scale to
adequately replace the world's reliance on fossil fuels. Therefore, continued focused research and
development in improving the efficient use of these sources while reducing the environmental costs must
be a high priority for the United States. We support expanded research and development funding and
efforts to create and improve alternative and renewable energy sources and the development of energy
transition scenarios for use by local officials and the general public.
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14. INDIAN GAMING REGULATIONS
The City is concerned about the uncontrolled growth of Indian Casinos on off premises (reservation) lands.
The City supports legislation that places safeguards on the growth of Indian casinos.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Rewrite Section 20 of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), which authorizes reservation
shopping. This means that under no circumstances can a tribe that already has land in trust
acquire more land that is not contiguous to its reservation and use it for gaming. This will put a
permanent end to reservation shopping.
2. Give local communities a seat at the table during the process to mitigate impacts of casinos
proposed by newly recognized or restored tribes. This means the tribe and local community
must enter into a memorandum of understanding where the tribe must pay the community for
mitigation of direct effects of the casino on infrastructure and services like transportation and
public safety.
3. Ban any attempts to establish off -reservation casinos outside of the state where the tribe
presently resides.
4. Allow States to regulate Fantasy Sports and internet gambling.
45IPage
Page 1274 of 1459
15. HUMAN RIGHTS
Human rights in the United States are facing significant challenges that demand urgent attention. Despite
longstanding commitments to fair access for all communities, structural issues continue to shape outcomes
in education, housing programs, healthcare, and criminal justice, disproportionately affecting
underrepresented communities. These failings undermine the dignity and freedoms of millions. Fixing
them is essential not only to uphold the principles enshrined in the Constitution but also to ensure that
every person can live with safety, opportunity, and respect. Addressing these injustices is not optional, it's a
moral imperative for a truly fair and just society. We request your support through the following legislative
actions.
a. MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCING
Mandatory minimum sentences are punishments ordered by judges with minimum incarceration terms set
by the legislature. Mandatory minimum sentencing laws effectively strip judges of their authority to take
the circumstances of a crime into account and shift power to prosecutors, allowing prosecutors to use the
threat of bringing charges under these mandatory minimum sentences laws to convince defendants to
plead guilty in order to receive a reduced sentence.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support striking mandatory minimum sentencing provisions, allowing judges to apply the federal
sentencing guidelines with individualized reviews that take facts into consideration in determining
the appropriate sentence.
b. EXPAND THE EARNED INCOME AND CHILD TAX CREDITS
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC) are useful antipoverty measures that still
leave too many people out. In the case of the EITC, the beneficiaries are largely families with dependent
children. Childless adults generally find that their EITC is severely inadequate compared to families with
children; childless adults receive up to $649 in EITC compared to adults with children who can receive up
to $8,046 depending on the number of qualifying children (Internal Revenue Service, 2025). While the One
Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) passed in July of 2025 helped those with children, it did not improve benefits
for childless adults. The result is that over 5 million Americans are unable to escape poverty or are further
impoverished. Expanding the EITC for childless adults would lift an estimated 5 million Americans out of
poverty (Marr & Huang, Childless Adults Are Lone Group Taxed Into Poverty, 2020). As for the CTC, the
OBBBA does little for families with low incomes because the phase -in rules pre-OBBBA are still in place.
These phase -in rules mean that even more children will be affected because their families don't earn
enough to qualify (Tax Policy Center, 2025).
For tax year 2021, the EITC was made more generous on a temporary basis. These changes should be made
permanent and expanded even further.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation to permanently expand the Earned Income Tax Credit and/or the Child Tax
Credit.
c. INCREASE THE FEDERAL MINIMUM WAGE
At $7.25 an hour, the federal minimum wage has not changed since 2009. Because it has not received any
adjustments since that time, the buying power of a minimum wage job has decreased drastically over the
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Page 1275 of 1459
years to the point where the federal minimum wage of $7.25 was worth 27% less in 2022 than it was in 2009
and 40% less than in 1968 (Cooper et al., 2022)
The current wage is not enough to support working families. An individual working 40 hours a week would
only make about $15,000 a year putting them roughly $17,000 below the poverty threshold for a family of
four (HHS.gov, 2025). According to David Cooper (2022) of the Economic Policy Institute, gradually raising
the minimum wage to $15 would increase the buying power of minimum wage jobs and would lead to greater
wage equality between low and middle wage workers and bring tens of millions of people out of poverty.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation to gradually raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour or more.
d. LICENSE PEOPLE WHO LEARN TRADES WHILE IN PRISON
Inmates who learn trades in prison often have difficulty in finding employment when they leave, partially
because they have been prevented from getting the licenses, they need to work certain jobs. While inmates
may learn useful skills and receive training in prison programs, they are effectively banned from getting a
license when they leave. This has far-reaching ripple effects on other issues, such as housing, for ex -
offenders. If they are unable to attain steady employment, ex -offenders are much less likely to be able to
access housing services. In turn, this can lead to homelessness and a host of additional economic and
societal implications.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that places restrictions on the use of criminal records to disqualify individuals
from receiving occupational licenses for jobs such as hairdressers, taxi drivers, trades learned in
prison, etc.
e. REAUTHORIZE THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT
The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act of 2025 would be a strong deterrent to millions of
eligible voters in this country. Restrictions in that legislation include the requirement to show a valid ID in
order to vote, ending same -day registration, shortening early voting, and closing down polling places in
minority communities. According to the Center for Democracy and Civic Engagement, tens of millions of
Americans don't have a valid driver's license, have an expired license, or are unable to obtain a passport or
birth certificate because of financial burdens or other difficulties. This means these same Americans would
be barred from voting. These issues affect individuals across all party lines; however, they
disproportionately affect Black and Hispanic Americans as well as other underrepresented communities.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislative alternatives to the SAVE Act, including legislation to modernize the formula that
determines which jurisdictions have shown patterns of discriminatory voter -suppression practices,
mandate that all voting changes must be announced in public half -a -year before an election,
expand the federal government's authority to send observers to the polls, modernize voter
registration with automatic, online, and same -day voter registration, restore voting rights to the
previously incarcerated after they complete their sentence, restrict the ability to purge voters from
the rolls, reform campaign finance transparency and strengthen FEC oversight, reform redistricting
with independent commissions, and standardized criteria and transparency.
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f. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY IN HIRING PRACTICES FOR OFFENDERS
Removing the checkbox that asks about criminal history from initial job applications, commonly known as
"Ban the Box," aims to create fairer hiring practices and expand access to employment for people with prior
felony and misdemeanor convictions. By allowing employers to first assess an applicant's qualifications,
experience, and potential, these policies help ensure that individuals are not automatically disqualified
because of their past. Research shows that providing second -chance hiring opportunities supports
community safety and economic growth by reducing recidivism and increasing workforce participation
(NCSL, 2024). Studies have also found that applicants in cities with Ban the Box laws received higher
callback rates and fairer consideration in the hiring process (ILR, 2019). Ultimately, Ban the Box strengthens
communities, and helps employers tap into a wider pool of motivated, qualified talent.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that repeals provisions that prevent individuals with drug convictions from
receiving financial aid through FAFSA or, at a minimum, support legislation that allows a student
who is convicted of a drug offense involving marijuana possession, without the intent to distribute,
to resume or retain federal student aid eligibility while completing a drug rehabilitation program.
g. RECOGNIZE HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHERS AS FORM OF INCOME
Ensuring safe, affordable housing is the most cost-effective strategy for reducing childhood poverty,
increasing economic mobility, and lifting people out of poverty. U.S. housing costs have been rising faster
than incomes for some time. According to the Out of Reach Report, affordable rent for a two -bedroom
apartment in Dubuque requires an hourly wage of $17.87. Nearly one-third of all Dubuque households are
cost burdened, with 1 in 4 renters spending more than 50% of their income on housing costs. Families of
color, single mother households, the elderly, and people with disabilities are disproportionately cost
burdened. To compound matters, in 2023, only 32% of landlords in Dubuque accepted Housing Vouchers as
a source of income. This means that families that are eligible for vouchers may still struggle to find
affordable housing where their voucher is accepted.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that prohibits housing discrimination and requires housing providers to
recognize Housing Choice Vouchers as a legitimate form of income.
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THE Cl
191
Masterpiece on the Mississippi
Dubuque
MI -America City
NAMNAl_ � A I, I J vY AA
1
2007*2012*2013
2017*2019
Page 1278 of 1459
Table of Contents
1|Page
Page 1279 of 1459
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2 1 P a g e
Page 1280 of 1459
b. ZONING_ REPOR n......................................................................... 44
c. INFRASTRUCTURE ............................................................................................................................... 45
d. CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROGRAM..................................................................................... 45
13 S ST INAR-1 F & R€SILI€NTHOMMUNITI€5.......................................................................................... 47
x�. �v� i rclivrco�G
44. INDIAN GAMING REGULATIONS ........................................................................................................... 49
a. MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCING .............................................. 59
h EXPAND THE EARNED INCOME AND CHILI) TAX CREDITS .................................................................. 59
p. EXPAND CT{1\IVCGrI
ElPEREAS€THE FEDERAL MINIMUM WAGE............................................................ 51
d. LICENSE PEOPLE WHO WHILE IN PRISON .................................................................. 51
o REAUTHORIZE THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT............................................................................................ 51
C. 1[GTTv 11 1
f. TUITION ASSISTANCE FOR €X OFFENDERS .......................................................................................... 52
1111r
rt FULLY Pi ND HOUSING CHOICE VOWCHER PROGRAM BASED ON-ACT-WAL-AI€€O. .............. 52
�vrv�l Ivv�llvv c ...............
FFnFRAI FOCUS ?n??- ?m? F
GRANT OPPORTUNITIES............................................................................................................................... 6
1. INFRASTRUCTURE: TRANSPORTATION GRANT PROGRAMS..................................................................... 7
a. BUILDGRANT......................................................................................................................................... 7
b. SAFE STREETS FOR ALL (SS4A) GRANT.................................................................................................. 9
c. DOT TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNITY & SYSTEM PRESERVATION GRANT PROGRAM BUILD GRANTIO
2. INFRASTRUCTURE: SURFACE TRANSPORTATION...................................................................................
11
a. BUILD GRANT FOR "IMPROVING THE NORTHWEST ARTERIAL/JOHN DEERE ROAD CORRIDOR FOR
FREIGHT MOBILITY"................................................................................................................................
11
b. EAST -WEST CORRIDOR CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS..........................................................................
12
c. NORTHWEST ARTERIAL/HIGHWAY 20 INTERSECTION........................................................................
15
d. SOUTHWEST ARTERIAL (US HIGHWAY 52) PEDESTRIAN / BIKE SHARED USE PATH ...........................
17
e. CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS: US HIGHWAY 20....................................................................................
18
f. PUBLIC TRANSIT FUNDING..................................................................................................................
18
3. INFRASTRUCTURE: AIR TRANSPORTATION.............................................................................................
19
a. AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT AND ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE................................................................
19
b. AVIATION WORKFORCE SHORTAGE...................................................................................................
19
c. REPLACEMENT AND LIABILITY OF AQUEOUS FILM FORMING FOAM ................................................. 19
d. TSA AIRPORT WORKER SCREENING.................................................................................................... 20
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e. CONTRACT TOWER PROGRAM...........................................................................................................20
4. INFRASTRUCTURE: PASSENGER RAIL......................................................................................................
21
5. INFRASTRUCTURE: WATER.....................................................................................................................
22
a. WASTEWATER & DRINKING WATER...................................................................................................
22
b. FLOODWALL IMPROVEMENT & MAINTENANCE................................................................................
22
6. INFRASTRUCTURE: BROADBAND & TELECOMMUICATIONS..................................................................
24
a. COMMUNICATIONS............................................................................................................................
24
b. BROADBAND DATA ACT......................................................................................................................
29
7. INFRASTRUCTURE: PARKS AND RECREATIONAL AREAS.........................................................................
30
a. LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND (LWCF) - OUTDOOR RECREATION LEGACY PARTNERSHIP
PROGRAM(ORLP)...................................................................................................................................
30
8. CITY/COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES/PROTECTIVE SERVICES...............................................................
31
a. COMBINED COMMUNICATION CENTER.............................................................................................
31
b. CONTINUE SUPPORT FOR ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTER GRANTS .....................................................
31
c. FIRE STATION CONSTRUCTION GRANTS.............................................................................................
31
d. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS SERVICES PROGRAM .......................................
32
9. HOUSING.................................................................................................................................................
33
a. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDING........................................................
33
b. MOBILE HOME COMMUNITY PROTECTIONS......................................................................................
33
c. AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS....................................................................................
35
d. ANCHOR INSTITUTIONS......................................................................................................................
35
e. HOMES FOR EVERY LOCAL PROTECTOR, EDUCATOR AND RESPONDER (HELPER) ACT OF 2023 .......
36
10. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT..................................................................................................................
37
a. EDA GRANT PROGRAMS.....................................................................................................................
37
b. FEDERAL HISTORIC TAX CREDITS........................................................................................................
37
c. NEW MARKET TAX CREDIT PROGRAM................................................................................................
38
d. CHILDCARE..........................................................................................................................................
39
e. EPA BROWNFIELDS PROGRAM...........................................................................................................
40
f. ARTS & CULTURE.................................................................................................................................
41
11. PUBLIC HEALTH.....................................................................................................................................45
a. PUBLIC HEALTH FUNDING.................................................................................................................. 45
b. LEAD POISONING PREVENTION.......................................................................................................... 45
c. LEAD IN DRINKING WATER..................................................................................................................46
d. ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE — SUPPORT INCREASED COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER, NATIONAL HEALTH
SERVICE CORPS, AND TEACHING HEALTH CENTER FUNDING................................................................ 46
e. PROTECTING ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE PRESCRIPTION DRUGS.......................................................... 47
f. AUTHORIZE PERMANENT MEDICARE TELEHEALTH FLEXIBILITIES....................................................... 51
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g. IMPROVING MATERNAL CARE ACCESS AND OUTCOMES...................................................................
51
12. PLANNING.............................................................................................................................................
53
a. HOUSING & ZONING REFORM............................................................................................................
53
b. CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROGRAM.....................................................................................
54
13. SUSTAINABLE & RESILIENT COMMUNITIES..........................................................................................
56
14. INDIAN GAMING REGULATIONS...........................................................................................................
58
15. HUMAN RIGHTS....................................................................................................................................
59
a. MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCING..............................................................................................
59
b. EXPAND THE EARNED INCOME AND CHILD TAX CREDITS..................................................................
59
c. INCREASE THE FEDERAL MINIMUM WAGE.........................................................................................
60
d. LICENSE PEOPLE WHO LEARN TRADES WHILE IN PRISON..................................................................
60
e. REAUTHORIZE THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT............................................................................................
61
f. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY IN HIRING PRACTICES FOR OFFENDERS..........................................................
61
e. RECOGNIZE HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHERS AS FORM OF INCOME .....................................................
62
FEDERAL FOCUS 2022- 2032
GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
.,
"Wil III!
...,
..
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Page 1283 of 1459
Federal legislative goals for 2026 will focus on commercial air service, water infrastructure, transportation
infrastructure, economic development, safety, public health, and housing.
As funding for the city is reduced due to state policy, alternative revenue sources become even more
critical. Working strategically with the Mayor and City Council, City staff and our partners, we continue to
seek and secure grant funding for City priorities.
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Page 1284 of 1459
1. INFRASTRUCTURE: TRANSPORTATION GRANT PROGRAMS
a RAKE GRAni BUILDGRANT
BETTER
UTILIZING INVESTMENTS TO LEVERAGE DEVELOPMENT (BUILD) GRANT
The City of Dubuque has already benefited from this signature US Department of Transportation funding
program. A $5.7 million TIGER grant was received in 2010 to support the reconstruction of utilities and
complete streets in the Historic Millwork District. Additionally, Dubuque County in partnership with the
City received a $5.4 million BUILD grant in 2019 to support a series of roadway repairs, intersection capacity
and safety improvements, and a trail extension in the vicinity of the John Deere Dubuque Works facility.
The City applied for USDOT TIGER Discretionary Grants in both 2014 and 2017 however our application
requests were not selected. City staff were advised by grant review agency staff that our proposed
infrastructure project grant applications were strong, however the projects were not advanced far enough
in the planning, design, and environmental clearance development phases for selection consideration.
Subsequently, the City applied for a 2021 RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant which was unsuccessful. A
formal debrief with USDOT staff in March of 2022 identified ways in which the project, the narrative and
additional data could strengthen the application.
As a result, in an effort to be better positioned for future Federal Discretionary Grant opportunities, the City
again applied for a 2022 RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant to assist with the planning and design of a
multimodal transportation corridor project for proposed improvements to the Elm Street corridor, the 16th
Street corridor, and the proposed 14th Street Railroad Overpass bridge project.
The 2022 RAISE Planning Grant application proposed a project entitled "Building Bridges to Elevate
Employment ^nd Equity (B=)". Through the grant, the City of Dubuque requested $2,280,000 in USDOT
RAISE Planning funds to assist with the planning and design of a multimodal transportation corridors which
will connect low-income residents with economic opportunities and key community resources in the Kerper
Boulevard Industrial Park, on Chaplain Schmitt Island, in downtown Dubuque and its Historic Millwork
District, and on the west side of the city via the downtown Intermodal Transportation Center.
In August of 2022, the City was notified by the US Department of Transportation that the Building Bridges
to Elevate Employment-God-Eq+4ty (B2E2) application was selected to receive RAISE Planning Grant funding.
The RAISE grant funding is summarized in the following table:
Fund Description
Percentage
Fund Amount
RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant
52.1%
$ 2,280,000
Local Funds - City
47.9%
$ 2,100,000
Total Project Cost
100%
$ 4,380,000
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Page 1285 of 1459
BUILDING BRIDGES TO EMPLOYMENT AND EQUI
■ ■ RAISE Planning Grant
PLANNING AND DESIGN FOR MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATIC
• 14TH STREET RAILROAD OVERPASS BRIDGE
• 16TH STREET CORRIDOR
• ELM STREET CORRIDOR I ��
• KERPER BLVD. CORRIDOR
RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant
52.1%
$ 2,280,000
Local Funds - City
47.9%
$1,350,000
Local Funds - DRA Contribution
$ 750,000
Total Project Cost
100%
$ 4,380,000
34. _ - d,••°` "tea,
DUB E 8..._.Owl a 1�
�`
M¢ Mrpitrr mi Nr Mississippi•,•
+r.sM
BUILDING BRIDGES TO ELEVATE EMPLOYMENT (B2E2)
■ ■ RAISE Planning Grant
PLANNING AND DESIGN FOR MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION CORRIDOR
• 14TH STREET RAILROAD OVERPASS BRIDGE
• 16TH STREET CORRIDOR
• ELM STREET CORRIDOR
• KERPER BLVD. CORRIDOR
Fund Description , Percentage I Fund Amount I'
RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant 52.1% $ 2,280,000
Local Funds - City 47.9'h $1.M.000 e
Local Funds - DRA Contribution $ 750,000
Total Project Cost 100% $ 4,380.000
AY —
rsa cm o � j
DUB E j
The City completed the consultant selection process in accordance with the Iowa Department of
Transportation (Iowa DOT) federal aid consultant selection process. AECOM Technical Services, Inc. was
selected as the first -ranked Consultant and the City is through contract negotiations for Professional
Consultant Services to complete the Engineering Design and NEPANational Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
/ Environmental Study Phase to advance development for the 132E2 RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant
project.
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Page 1286 of 1459
On September 5, 2023, the City Council concurred with the Consultant Selection Committee's
recommendation in the selection of AECOM Technical Services, Inc. to complete the Engineering Design
and NEPA / Environmental Study Phase to advance development for the RAISE Infrastructure Planning
Grant for the project entitled "Building Bridges to Elevate Employment and Equity (132E2)". AECOM contract
was negotiated, and Iowa DOT / FHWA external audit was approved on January 29, 2024.
City staff, AECOM, Iowa DOT and FHWA staff felt the best approach to develop a contract, scope of
services, and negotiated fee was to separate the design services into 2 phases: Phase I (Concept Design /
NEPA / Public Involvement / Preliminary Design), and a future Phase II (Final Design). Once Phase I
preliminary design and NEPA work elements are completed, City staff will have a more detailed and
comprehensive understanding of the scope of the services needed for the next Phase II (Final Design).
Through a future Supplemental Agreement, a scope of services and fee amount will be developed for Phase
II (Final Design) work.
On February 5, 2024, the City Council awarded the Professional Consultant Services Contract with AECOM
and Notice to Proceed was issued to complete the Phase I - Engineering Design and NEPA / Environmental
Study Phase.
On February 19, 2025, per Resolution NO. 46-24, the Mayor and City Council authorized the City to submit
an application to the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) for a RAISE Capital Infrastructure
Implementation Grant to assist with funding for proposed improvements to construct specific elements of
the Building Bridges to Elevate Employment a^y (B2E2) Project.
On June 26, 2024, the City received an official award notice from the US Department of Transportation for
the RAISE Capital Grant in the amount of $25 Million for the B2E2 project. The total construction cost for
the initial phases of the B2E2 project is estimated to be $38.7 million. In addition to the $25 million RAISE
grant, Dubuque Metropolitan Area Transportations Study (DMATS) will contribute $9.2 million, the City will
contribute $3.6 million, and the Canadian Pacific Kansas City railroad will contribute $1 million.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal level for all the support in
the City receiving RAISE Planning Grant in the amount of $ 2,280,000, and the RAISE Capital Grant
in the amount of $25M. The City of Dubuque requests a categorical exclusion from any further
NEPA/Environmental Study to avoid unnecessary delays.
b. SAFE STREETS FOR ALL (SS4A) GRANT
In February 2023, the City, East Central Intergovernmental Association (ECIA), and our regional local
partners were notified of our awarded Safe Streets for All Grant. The SS4A grant will assist with developing
a regional roadway network comprehensive safety action plan. Iowa State University Institute for
Transportation will lead the effort to development of a comprehensive safety action plan for the regional
roadway network to achieve the long-term objective of reducing transportation related injuries and
working towards zero deaths.
It is the objective of the City, ECIA, and partners to complete an Action Plan so that we have identified
potential roadway or intersection improvement projects which will be well positioned to compete for
future SS4A Implementation grant opportunities.
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Page 1287 of 1459
SAFE STREETS FOR ALL (SS4A) GRANT
■ ■ Comprehensive Safety Action Plan
ZOWNIS OUR
GOAL
A SAFE SYSTEM IS HOW WE GET THERE
FUNDING SUPPORTS LOCAL INITIATIVES TO PREVENT DEATH
AND SERIOUS INJURY ON ROADS AND STREETS, COMMONLY REFERRED
TO AS "VISION ZERO" OR "TOWARD ZERO DEATHS" INITIATIVES
• DEVELOPING A COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY ACTION PLAN (ACTION PLAN)
• SUPPLEMENTAL PLANNING ACTIVITIES: CONDUCTING PLANNING,
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES FOR PROJECTS AND
STRATEGIES IDENTIFIED IN AN ACTION PLAN
Fund Description
Percentage
Fund Amount
Safe Streets For All (SS4A) Grant
80.0%
$ 200,000
Local Funds - City
12.7%
$ 32,000
Partner Funding - Other
7.2%
$ 18,000
Total Project Cost
100%
$ 250,000
rnecrnor
Q-U-BUQdE
Macfnpirer mi fix Mtmmppi CitY�AsburY P E O S TA
Mwh boor
REQUESTED ACTION
fikwral kOWA STATE
eua UNIVERSITY
Institute for
Transportation
The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal level for all the support in
the City receiving SS4A Grant in the amount of $200,000.
c. DOT TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNITY & SYSTEM PRESERVATION GRANT PROGRAM
BUILD GRANT
Last offered in FY2012, DOT's Transportation, Community & System Preservation (TCSP) grant program
provided $61 million in funding to plan and implement strategies to improve the efficiency of the
transportation system, reduce its environmental impacts, reduce the need for costly future public
infrastructure investments, ensure efficient access to jobs and services, boost smart growth development
patterns, and leverage private investment. As one of the few direct sources of federal transportation
funding available to local governments, the TCSP program should be reintroduced to help meet community
infrastructure needs. The City of Dubuque in 2012 received a $600,000 TCSP grant that helped in the
reconstruction of Elm Street from 9t" to 11t" Streets. This "Complete Street" is adjacent to the Jule
Intermodal Transportation Center. This street is a key part of the overall Historic Millwork District which has
leveraged this federal funding to help stimulate over $100 million in private redevelopment.
REQUESTED ACTION
Reestablish the DOT Transportation, Community & System Preservation grant program to $1 billion
annually.
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2. INFRASTRUCTURE: SURFACE TRANSPORTATION
The Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act is a five-year transportation bill intended to improve
and expand the Nation's surface transportation infrastructure, including roads, bridges, transit systems and
rail transportation network. This legislation passed in December 2015 and provides direction for
transportation activities for five years.
The bill reforms and strengthens transportation programs, refocuses national priorities, provides long term
certainty and greater flexibility for states and local governments, streamlines project approval processes,
and maintains strong commitment to safety. Reauthorization of the transportation bill builds on and
strengthens the innovations begun in MAP-21 in areas such as performance -based planning, safety, design,
and freight planning. FAST Act supports policies which expand choices, bolster public health, and
strengthen communities.
An extension of the FAST Act passed in 2020 expired in October of 2021. A multi -year surface
transportation bill is needed to assure funding for future planning and construction of transportation
projects. Support is needed for the Transportation Alternatives Program including the Recreational Trails
Program and Safe Routes to Schools. Combined these programs provide for bike and pedestrian projects
and safety in our local community. The federal fuel tax was last raised in October of 1993 and is not indexed
to inflation, which increased by 77 percent from 1993 until 2020. A long-term fix is also needed for the
Highway Trust Fund.
The FAST Act expires in September of 2026. Federal surface transportation reauthorization takes place
every five years in Congress and is the process used to renew, fund, and update the programs that build
and maintain the nation's roads, bridges, transit, and multimodal networks.
Reauthorization is one of the most important tools Congress has to shape national transportation policy.
Typically passed every five to six years, these bills establish funding levels, define federal priorities, and
guide how transportation investments are made. These decisions influence which types of projects are
eligible, what outcomes are prioritized (such as safety, mobility, economic development, etc.), and how
regions access and manage federal dollars.
a. BUILD GRANT FOR "IMPROVING THE NORTHWEST ARTERIAL/JOHN DEERE ROAD
CORRIDOR FOR FREIGHT MOBILITY"
Dubuque County was awarded a federal BUILD Grant in the amount of $5,452,023 for "Improving the
Northwest Arterial/John Deere Road Corridor for Freight Mobility" and making capacity and safety
improvements to John Deere Road. The Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair Project was added to the
BUILD Grant project because it is a critical freight route that connects to South John Deere Road. The
Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair Project will also provide the non-federal local match to the
Dubuque County BUILD Grant.
The Northwest Arterial project was originally anticipated to be completed by the Iowa DOT, however as
part of the executed Transfer of Jurisdiction Agreement (TOJ), the City agreed to be the lead local agency
responsible for completing the Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair improvements.
Effective January 29, 2021, the TOJ of the Northwest Arterial was completed from the State of Iowa to the
City as part of the Southwest Arterial project. As part of the roadway transfer, the Iowa DOT has issued a
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state of good repair payment to the City in the amount of $5,672,000 to complete pavement rehabilitation
and reconstruction of the Northwest Arterial from US20 to Central Ave / IA3.
Due to the federal funds associated with the BUILD Grant, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is
the lead regulatory agency and responsible for administering the project in coordination with the Iowa
DOT. As a result of the Northwest Arterial being incorporated into the BUILD Grant, the FHWA required that
both the Dubuque County John Deere Road Project and the City's Northwest Arterial Project be "tied"
together through the Iowa DOT's Office of Contracts bid letting process. Additionally, since the BUILD Grant
was awarded to Dubuque County, this required the County to be the lead Contracting Authority for both
Projects.
Bids were received on the project by the Iowa Department of Transportation on April 19, 2022 in Ames.
Pirc-Tobin Construction, Inc., of Alburnett, IA submitted the low bid in the amount of $14,416,742.87 for
the overall project which includes the City Northwest Arterial Project and the County John Deere Build
Grant projects. A summary of the project cost breakdown is as follows:
BUILD Proiect Cost Summary
Total Bid
City - Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair Project
$ 8,5"'�54674,734.82
Dubuque County - John Deere Road Build Project
, 547^�-� 6,395,401.42
Rid Tat2l _ o:rc_T. han Cans+..uG fien Inn TOTAL PROJECT
COST
$
, 4,11 6,74'.4715,070,136.24
Work on both the Dubuque County John Deere Road Project and the City's Northwest Arterial Project
began in June of 2022 and was completed in the fall of 2023.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal, state and local level for
supporting the BUILD Grant to allow for capacity and safety improvements to John Deere Road and
the Northwest Arterial freight corridors.
b. EAST -WEST CORRIDOR CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS
The US Highway 20 corridor is the primary east -west route in the City of Dubuque and future traffic volume
projections indicate US Highway 20 alone will not provide sufficient capacity for east -west travel in the City.
Capacity along alternate east -west corridors will need to be improved to provide connectivity between the
western growth areas and the downtown urban core.
In August 2017, the City Council listed the East-West Corridor Capacity Improvement Implementation as a
"Top -Priority" in its 2017-2019 Goals and Priorities and directed City staff to begin implementation plans for
the recommendations contained in the East-West Corridor Connectivity Report. The adopted East-West
Corridor Connectivity Study report acts as the City's Master Plan for both short-term and long-term capacity
improvements or corridor modifications to support growing east -west traffic flow in the City. The study
includes recommended improvements supporting complete streets concepts, multi -modal transportation,
vehicle, pedestrian, bicycle, and recreational improvements.
In an effort to advance this top priority, the City has already completed the following improvements:
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Project
Year
Cost
Property Acquisition
2016
$ 853,300
Grandview - Delhi Roundabout
2016
$ 827,000
Loras - Grandview Traffic Signals
2017
$ 370,300
University - Grandview Roundabout
2018
$1,200,000
Total Improvements To -Date
$3,250,300
-,r-rm ns���K
DUB
&GUwtmlva.ITJLMw4Cµ l
h
East/West Corridor Capacity Improvements kv E
� M1
Granaview1oras - ;
" Traffic Signal Improvements
Gornpleted:2ai7 � f,
�y
OAX
5 f
' University. Loras. Asbury, rr- r •
` Pennsylvania Overlap Section
P*posed Roundabouts _ ; i L �
* t Preliminary Uesigrrf n
Environmental Study. 2018 �-
,F Grandview! iniversity ti
Rourkdabout
ri Proposed Build: 2018
0randviewfDelhifGraca #.
Roundabout
'.. Corn pleted:20"6
a ✓ r.z
The section of University Avenue, from Pennsylvania Avenue to Loras Boulevard, referred to as the
"Overlap Section" was recommended for converting the three intersections along University Avenue to
roundabouts.
In July 2018, the City applied for an $18.1 million U.S. Department of Transportation Better Utilizing
Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant request to assist in funding both multi -modal and
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capacity improvements within the identified East-West Corridors. Staff was notified in December 2018 that
the City was not selected to receive a BUILD grant.
Following the BUILD grant announcement, the City has an opportunity to move forward and advance the
development of East-West Corridor Capacity Improvements utilizing the new Iowa DOT Federal Aid SWAP
Policy. Effective October 2018, the new Federal Aid SWAP Policy allows federal funds normally allocated to
cities or counties to be replaced with State of Iowa Primary Road funds on a dollar -for -dollar basis. The goal
of the new policy is to increase efficiencies and help local governments reduce the level federal oversight,
regulations, and requirements. Additionally, the use of Primary Road funds will be reimbursed at 100% of
eligible costs which eliminates the requirement for local governments to provide a 20% local match.
In January 2019, the City began the process to de -federalize the East-West Corridor project by paying back
the federal funds previously used for property acquisition. On August 19th, 2019, the City received the
FHWA final closure acceptance for the defederalization of funds related to the East - West Corridor project.
With the project defederalization is completed, in December 2020, the SWAP Funding Agreement was
executed with the Iowa DOT which will allow the City to utilize both local City funding and SWAP funding to
begin the preliminary engineering and environmental study phase for intersection capacity improvements
along the University Avenue, Loras Boulevard to Pennsylvania Avenue "Overlap Section".
In December of 2021, the Mayor and City Council approved the selection of HDR, Inc. of Omaha, Nebraska
as the Consultant to complete the Preliminary Engineering Design and Environmental Clearance Phase to
advance the development of East-West Corridor Capacity Improvements along University Avenue.
In March of 2022, with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) funding allocation to the State of
Iowa, the Iowa DOT announced the increase in new federal funds will require additional Primary Road
Funds (PRF) to be used as the State's local match, which will impact the Iowa DOT's ability to provide SWAP
funds for Local Public Agency (LPA) projects. With the reduced Federal -aid SWAP capacity, the Iowa DOT
has informed LPAs that all programs will transition from Federal -aid SWAP to Federal -aid starting in
February 2023 for Cities.
Since the East-West Corridor Capacity Improvements are a multi -year, multi -phased project, which
transitioned from Federal -aid SWAP (100%funding) to Federal -aid (80%/20% funding), in March 2023, the
City was required to identify, and the Mayor and City Council approved as part of the Fiscal Year 2024-2028
adopted budget, the allocation of an additional $2.5 million as the City's 20% local match.
As a result of the funding shift to Federal Aid, this requires the environmental study phase to be elevated to
a Federal NEPA level clearance. Due to the additional level of work to meet the NEPA level regulatory
requirements, this added time required to complete the environmental clearance phase by 12 months and
added an additional cost to the Consultant design services contract. Once the preliminary engineering and
environmental (NEPA) clearance are completed over the next year, corridor impacts will be identified, and
property acquisition could begin. Subject to availability of local match funding, property acquisition could
take approximately 2 years to complete. Once property acquisition is completed within the Overlap Section,
and subject to availability of local match funding, construction to convert the three intersections along
University Avenue to roundabouts could begin and would take approximately 2-3 years to complete.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support City of Dubuque BUILD grant application for East West Corridor improvements.
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151 Page
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e. NORTHWEST ARTERIAL/HIGHWAY 20 INTERSECTION
The City of Dubuque supports the implementation of capacity improvements along the Highway 20 corridor
and the Northwest Arterial intersection. This intersection is experiencing operational challenges which will
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only be compounded now that the Southwest Arterial/ US52 is completed, and commercial traffic is
rerouted from the downtown urban core. The recommended capacity improvements will allow traffic to
travel along Highway 20 more efficiently and safely, from the Northwest Arterial to the Southwest Arterial/
US52 interchange. The Iowa DOT has completed a capacity improvements study and has identified the
preferred roadway corridor and intersection improvement. The Iowa DOT is currently evaluating
alternatives for both funding and phasing the implementation of capacity improvements.
REQUESTED ACTION
Continue to support the Iowa DOT efforts to implement improvements along the Highway 20 corridor
and the Northwest Arterial intersection for safe and efficient travel to the Southwest Arterial/ US52
interchange.
fd. SOUTHWEST ARTERIAL (US HIGHWAY 52) PEDESTRIAN / BIKE SHARED USE PATH
After nearly 30 plus years in the making, it is with great appreciation in celebrating the completion of the
Southwest Arterial / US Highway 52 project, which was epe gopened to vehicular traffic on August 17,
2020.
The final cost projection for the fully completed 4-lane freeway is approximately $160 Million. This historic
milestone achievement would not have been possible without the strong collaborative partnerships with
the Iowa department of Transportation and Dubuque County.
Future Initiatives
As part of the 4-lane highway construction, grading was also completed for a future bike pedestrian shared
use path from US Highway 20 to US Highway 61/151. To accommodate the future trail - several of the
bridges along the corridor incorporated a separated shared use on the bridges. A future initiative will be to
pave the 6.1-mile bike pedestrian shared use path which will complete a connection between the Heritage
Trail and the Mines of Spain Recreational Area.
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REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal and state level for all the
support in making the Southwest Arterial, our #1 surface transportation project a reality and now is
seeking $6 million to fund paving the bike and pedestrian shared use trail that has been graded as
part of the project.
ge. CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS: US HIGHWAY 20
Transportation infrastructure connectivity is essential to a vibrant economy and thriving community.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque supports completion of four -lane construction on Highway 20 to Chicago. To
accomplish this project and other significant highway and interstate capacity improvements, the
City supports efforts to identify a long term, sustainable revenue source that keeps the Highway
Trust Fund fully funded to be used for rebuilding and maintaining infrastructure.
4f. PUBLIC TRANSIT FUNDING
The new infastructure BIL provides stable formula funding and competitive grant program to address bus
and bus facility needs. The BIL is greatly appreciated for increasing operational needs, but supply chain
issues are still causing a major delay in technology and equipmen leadtimes and cost increases.
The City of Dubuque has received a planning grant to analyze travel patterns in the community and
develop a replicable model for responding to travel demand through planning of transportation investment
that incorporates all modes - car, bus, bike and pedestrian. The goal of this research is to create a more
efficient and cost effective public transit system modeling tool for cities under 100,000 population.
This research effort and integrated approach to addressing community travel needs will provide
opportunities to expand public transit service to our citizens. Without additional operating funding to
support current services and new operating grant opportunities to expand services, implementation of this
project could be limited.
Technical assistance for cities interested in undertaking bus rapid transit projects earlier in the planning
stages would also be appreciated. Currently, most planning must be complete and Small Starts funding
already secured for a city to be eligible for this type of assistance. Operational funding to support ongoing
route analysis and planning at the transit system level would be helpful as well.
Capital funding for vehicles and onboard technology replacement are needed. Many vehicles in Iowa, and
Dubuque specifically, are at or near the end of their useful life. Onboard technology provides essential data
for management and dispatch personnel as well as drivers and passengers, but to upgrade or replace this
technology fleet -wide is costly. Stagnant operational funding and limited capital funding opportunities
make developing responsive, cost-effective public transit opportunities difficult.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support increased funding for operational funds through the S307 program and pursue additional
grant funding for bus replacement to include four new transit vehicles, specifically two smaller,
heavy duty, thirty-foot GILLIG buses and two mini buses.
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3. INFRASTRUCTURE: AIR TRANSPORTATION
a. AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT AND ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE
Modernize Small Community Air Service Development (SCASD) Essential Air Service (EAS) to meet today's
evolving small community and industry needs.
REQUESTED ACTION
Continue to appropriate funds for Air Service Development and Essential Air Service Programs
identified in FAA Reauthorization Act 2024 and include modification to programs that will help
restore and retain commercial air service in airports that lost all commercial service such as DBQ.
b. AVIATION WORKFORCE SHORTAGE
Congress must take immediate action to address the aviation workforce shortage through multiple programs
and initiatives. Aviation workforce shortages are creating a strain felt across the industry and is being felt
most by the smaller communities who are struggling to maintain their basic service, or have lost service
altogether.
REQUESTED ACTION
Appropriate funds toward Aviation Workforce identified in FAA Reauthorization Act 2024: Aviation
Workforce Development Programs, Airport Service Workforce Analysis
c. REPLACEMENT AND LIABILITY OF AQUEOUS FILM FORMING FOAM
Congress pass the following legislation related to airports past FAA mandated use of PFOS and PFAS in
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF).
.ff
REQUESTED ACTION
Appropriate fund-; f.,r Air c r,, ce n.,.,.,1.,.,.,-,ent and r.-.- ntmal Air -SeF mee PFegFa.,, identified ;
€-AAthe $350 million authorized by the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 and ine-1 dle Dubuque in the
fedleral Sub.si.d„ r.FegF- s that will help get Dubuque re-A-m., ercial -lr ryiee
Gengress ean aide amFperts with liability legislatien that helds aiFperts War.m.leSS f9F pFesent and past use e
PPOS and- IPFAS an AqueousFeaRqAA
a. AppFepFiate FuRds tewaFd PFAS Replacement Grant Program id e.ntified- "^
RP;;-rherizatien 44 Af 2W
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Page 1297 of 1459
b. -Pass Legislation that exempts airports from enforcement actions under the CERCLA or
other State and Local environmental laws related to the use of PFOA/PFAS.
d. TSA AIRPORT WORKER SCREENING
The need for Airport Worker Screening remains necessary in the ever -evolving homeland security
landscape.
REQUESTED ACTION
Require TSA to retain the roles the agency was created to execute following 9/11, instead of placing
that unfunded burden on Airport's. One of TSA's founding purposes was to provide consistent
security screening across the National Airspace System, and now critical security screening tasks are
being placed back into pre-9/11 processes and programs.
e. CONTRACT TOWER PROGRAM
Safety and common-sense dictates continued funding of the ATC program and the contract tower program
or restoration of FAA staffing of these facilities. A United States Department of Transportation Office of
Inspector General Report Number AV-2013-009, issued on November 5, 2012, found that "a contract tower
cost, on average, about $1.5 million less to operate than a similar FAA tower." The report further stated,
"contract towers had a significantly lower number and rate of safety incidents compared to similar FAA
towers."
REQUESTED ACTION
We urge Congress to continue to fully fund the Contract Tower program
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4. INFRASTRUCTURE: PASSENGER RAIL
ThFOUgh the Envisien 2010 pFeeess, Dubuque Fesident-s identified the FetUFR ef passengeF Fail te Dubuque as
ene of its t p tee PFieritie . Local passenger rail advocates established a passenger rail citizen group, "Ride
the Rail," to engage the public, secure support and promote the return of passenger rail service between
Chicago to Dubuque.
The City has been successful in partnership with DMATS and the local Ride the Rail citizen group in securing
state and local funding for the feasibility study of passenger rail return between Chicago and Dubuque.
Federal funding support for passenger rail projects provides the critical next step for the return of passenger
rail service between Chicago and Dubuque.
REQUESTED ACTION
Encourage Illinois Department of Transportation efforts to obtain federal funding for passenger rail
service from Chicago to Dubuque.
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5. INFRASTRUCTURE: WATER
a. WASTEWATER & DRINKING WATER
The nation's wastewater and drinking water infrastructure is experiencing an infrastructure need of $655
billion over the next twenty years. We congratulate Congress on the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure
Legislation (BIL) which includes $105 billion in water infrastructure funds.
The City of Dubuque has ongoing funding needs for drinking water and clean water infrastructure. The State
Revolving Loan (SRF) program has been very effective in helping the City address water infrastructure needs.
For every federal dollar of SRF spending, 21.4% is returned to the federal government in the form of taxes
and on average, 16.5 jobs are created for every 1 million spent through SRF; each job is estimated to bring
about $60,000 in labor income. Infrastructure investments create 16 percent more jobs than equivalent
spending on a payroll tax holiday, 40 percent more jobs than an across-the-board tax cut, and more than five
times as many jobs as temporary tax cuts.
Every million dollars of SRF spending results in $2.95 million of input in the U.S. economy. This is a smart
investment complimenting a narrow federal role of ensuring modern, efficient infrastructure. Since this is a
loan program, SRFs leverage resources from all levels of government and the private sector empowering
state and local governments. SRFs are voluntary, thereby reducing regulatory burdens on businesses.
Dubuque has utilized SRF funds for two major projects, the Bee Branch project and the Water and Resource
Recovery project. Dubuque is poised to now include lead service line replacement funds through SRF or other
federal infrastructure grant funds. The SRF funding source is critical to cities.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque supports the expansion of grant funds and SRF forgivable loans available through
the Bipartisan Infrastructure Legislation (BIL) for water infrastructure needs, particularly the city-
wide lead service line replacement program, the Catfish Creek sanitary sewer improvements, and
other priorities.
b. FLOODWALL IMPROVEMENT & MAINTENANCE
The Senator John C. Culver Flood Wall system was built between 1967 and 1974 at a cost of $11 million
dollars. Over the past nearly fifty plus years it has provided protection valued in the billions of dollars.
OverThe City received $16.2 million in federal funds in 2024 to replace and expand the past five year r;+„
staff aleng with "C gates and pumps at the 161h Street detention basin. This protect was critical to building
greater resiliency in the flood protection system and is part of the Bee Branch Flood Mitigation Protect.
These federal funds, provided through the Economic Development Administration (EDA) and Community
Protect programming, were essential to maintaining and enhancing flood protection for Kerper Blvd, the
Millwork District, and other adjacent neighborhoods and businesses.
With the funding secured for the construction of the 16th Street Gates and Pumps priority, the City is now
focused on the South Port of Dubuque.
After Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans and southern Louisiana and Mississippi, the Army Corps of
EngineersI tA rnAn*tAr the fleed resilience of the flood system at Dubuque. it has
been USACE determined that a new pumping station should he constructed + replace the current gates
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and pumps at the Bee BraRGh which was originally constructed prior te the fedethe failure of multiple "I"
walls in the levee system exacerbated the devastating flood control preject The Gity was fertunate +^ "^
awarded a $2.55 millien. EEDA grant te offset Serne ef the $14.5 million On estimated r-A-nstri-letien eests. The
City us also looking to take advantage of the SRF program te fund a pertion of the preject cost. it h-;;,-;
"^^^ r'^*^r^, ^^'impacts. Subsequently, the USACE recommended that buryinall flood protection systems
in the US that included "I' walls address this weakness and bury the "I" walls to build greater flood
protection and resiliency. This USACE recommendation did not come with any federal funding programs or
opportunities.
Burying the "I" wall in South Port would strengthen 4sthe resilience of the John C. Culver Flood Wall system
and create greater protections and flood resilience —.-for the city.
REQUESTED ACTION
SUPPOFt Support funding for Dubuque's critical flood prevention
infrastructure, including $1 5 million f^r r •o fleed wall gates and pump stab n imffevements o
v rp r Beuleyar,- -+ the , 6�4 Street Detention Facie;+., ar d $14.7 million to bury and strengthen the
South Port "I" wall.
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6. INFRASTRUCTURE: BROADBAND & TELECOMMUICATIONS
a. COMMUNICATIONS
Asa member of the National League of Cities (NLC), the United States Conference of Mayors, and the National
Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA), the City of Dubuque joins these
organizations in acknowledging that the historic transformation of our communications infrastructure is
essential to the economic competitiveness of the local governments, states, and the nation.
Preserve local authority to manage public rights of way for the benefit of everyone.
Maintaining public right of way and ensuring shared use; for the benefit of the public through partnerships
and cooperative agreements, benefit the p " c-, not only k monetary payments, but most importantly a
maximum investment in broadband and communications for the benefit of the community. This is a win -win
for the community and communications providers to get the needed services to residents and businesses in
a timely and economically competitive way.
Protect local authority to establish taxes that are consistent with local needs and maintain adequate
revenue.
Local governments recognize and support efforts to modernize the collection and administration of local
communications taxes, but in a manner that preserves the ability of local government to impose and collect
taxes to fund vital services for its citizens consistent with local values.
Protect and enhance local ability to provide for homeland and hometown security.
Local government's first responders need fully deployed E911, access to spectrum and funding for
interoperable communications to protect the public.
Recognize local roles in promoting nondiscriminatory access to the full range of communications services.
Municipalities are helping to bring advanced services to individuals and small businesses. Cities must have
the autonomy necessary to encourage competition and infrastructure deployment that will lower prices and
improve service quality for their citizens.
REQUESTED ACTION
• Do not nationalize cable and video franchising.
• Protect local governments' ability to facilitate or offer advanced communications services to
their citizens.
• Any changes to the collection and administration of communications taxes, including
extensions or modifications of the Internet Tax Freedom Act, must preserve local authority
to collect revenue consistent with local needs.
• Restore the FCC's Spectrum Auction Authority. The FCC is responsible for managing and
licensing the electromagnetic spectrum for commercial users and for non-commercial users
includin state coun and local overnments. This includes public safety, commercial and
non-commercial fixed and mobile wireless services, broadcast television and radio, satellite
and other services.
• Immediate necessity for Congress to reauthorize the FCC's authority to auction spectrum
licenses, which is vital for the U.S. to remain competitive in wireless and broadcast services.
• Development of a long-term strategic spectrum pipeline to meet future demand and
maintain U.S. leadership in technological innovation.
Local Government Principles for Communications Policy Modernization
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We believe that Congress and state and local governments can achieve these goals by embracing the
following principles:
• State and Local Authority
The City of Dubuque supports a balanced federalist approach that encourages new
innovation and technology while preserving appropriate authority for state and local
governments to protect their citizens — particularly in relation to public safety and
homeland security, promoting local competition, promoting economic development,
taxation, expansion of access to advanced networks, rights -of -way management, and
consumer protection.
• Public Safety
State and local public safety agencies rely heavily on communications services and systems
to protect public safety. In order for states and localities to carry out this mission, it is
essential that important obligations, such as 911 and CALEA, be applied to all relevant
communications platforms, regardless of technology. States and localities must also have
sufficient spectrum and funding to obtain interference -free, interoperable emergency
communications. In addition, it is important to preserve and strengthen the ability of state
and local government to protect and warn the public through emergency alert systems.
• Use of public property and right-of-way
State and local governments are the trustees of public property and must retain the power
to manage those assets for the benefit and safety of the community.
• Municipal Broadband
State and local governments can play an important role in making advanced services,
including broadband services, available to their citizens, based on specific local needs and
conditions. Federal policy should promote the rights of local governments that choose to
offer those services directly to their citizens.
• Video Franchising
The federal government should not preempt or restrict local authority to negotiate
mutually beneficial agreements and grant franchises to video providers. Public,
educational, and governmental channels are important tools citizens use to participate.
City of Dubuque Supports:
Legislation that preserves and extends municipal government authority to provide communications services
to their constituents.
Legislation that overturns the FCC cable franchise order and returns to the local franchising scheme set out
in the Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984.
The City of Dubuque opposes a wireless tax moratorium.
Ensuring expanded access to multichannel video programming is an important role of local government.
Ensuring fair access to digital equity is the ^'resources by addressing inequalities of availability,
affordability, and accessibility of technology —specifically high-speed internet.
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Net neutrality rules require that internet providers treat all internet traffic equally, outlawing practices like
traffic throttling or paying for content to be prioritized.
Expanded Access
States and localities support policies and programs that advance access to communications services and
ubiquitous broadband deployment in all areas of the country. Current initiatives that promote universal and
affordable access to communications services include the federal and state universal service funds, the
ERate program, Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP,) urban and rural infrastructure support
mechanisms, and obligations ensuring equitable cable and broadband deployment.
ACP
Galvanized by the pressure of COVID-19, a bipartisan Congress created the ACP with $14.2 billion in funding
in November 2021. The program provides eligible households a discount on Internet services of up to $30
per month —and up to $75 per month on qualifying Tribal lands. It also provides a one-time discount of up to
$100 towards a laptop, desktop, or tablet from participating providers.
Since then, the ACP has helped provide Internet to over 20.5 million American families and veterans. Thanks
to the ACP, low-income households can afford the access they need for work, education, healthcare, and
democratic engagement in the digital age. The data shows that we are making real progress on the affordable
access problem that has plagued the U.S. for over a generation. Broadband connectivity is essential to
maximizing educational opportunities, stimulating economic growth, lowering healthcare costs, investing in
a skilled workforce, and connecting individuals with their loved ones.
The ACP's funding has expired, relegating those Americans to second-class status again unless Congress
steps up to replenish the fund. In addition to availability and accessibility, ACP directly addresses the best
known factor contributing to the digital divide —price.
REQUESTED ACTION
Government leadership needs to ensure the ACP's continuation and appreciate the urgency. By
extending ACP funding, Congress can ensure the program continues to provide enduring
opportunities for all Americans.
Taxation
States and localities should retain full flexibility, as does the federal government, to structure their tax
policies in ways that best serves their citizens.
Consumer Protection
States and localities are best positioned to respond effectively to a wide variety of consumer concerns,
including but not limited to complaints related to service quality and affordability, reliability, deceptive
practices, billing practices, privacy, and criminal activity.
Wireless Zoning and Siting
It is essential for local communities to be able to address the expansion of wireless facilities to promote the
deployment of advanced communications while also protecting the interests of citizens in safety, sound
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planning, and aesthetic concerns. Cellular carriers have petitioned the FCC to create new, onerous
regulations that would make it more difficult for local governments to carry out their responsibilities in this
area. The Communications Act prohibits such FCC regulation. Congress should ensure that the balance
struck in federal law is not overturned by agency action.
In 2019 the City established a Small Cell Aesthetics guideline which outlined permit procedures, design
standards and location preferences. The goal is to encourage preferred locations, collocation, and
maintaining the unique community character and distinct aesthetics using "stealth" techniques and, for our
residents, providing advance notification of pending applications. Congress should support the City's efforts
in establishing and implementing such standards for the welfare of all.
Local government strongly endorses promoting competition for all consumers and treating like services
alike. The elected leaders of our nation's cities and counties stand ready and willing to welcome video
competition in their communities. Centralizing franchising at the federal or state level, however, limits the
benefits of head -to -head video competition to a chosen few, and deprives consumers of important
protections.
The FCC
Although the courts have upheld the transparency rule but vacated the no -blocking and no -unreasonable -
discrimination rules, there is no guarantee from the FCC of net neutrality. The new arrangement stands to
benefit large ISPs immensely while potentially harming small start-ups, entrepreneurs, and consumers
especially in locations where providers are limited.
Although there is a disclosure requirement and providers are prevented from engaging in unfair, deceptive,
and anticompetitive practices, issues will be handled after occurring and providers could bypass unfair
practices in the name of "reasonable, network management."
REQUESTED ACTION
1. States where statewide or state-controlled franchising is currently in place do not see greater or
faster video competition deployment than states where it is not.
2. Franchises do not just provide permission to offer video services. They are the core tools local
government uses to manage streets and sidewalks, provide for public safety, enhance
competition, and collect compensation for private use of public land. Eliminating local franchises
deprives local government of the power to perform basic functions.
3. Competition is for everyone. Current national policy implemented through franchises
encourages competition throughout the country, not just in urban or suburban areas and not
just for the wealthy. In less than ten years, under the current system, broadband service has been
made available to 91 percent of all homes passed by cable.
4. Neither Congress nor the FCC should try to manage local streets and sidewalks from Washington.
National franchising would abrogate a basic tenet of federalism by granting companies access to
locally owned property on federally defined terms.
S. Market factors, not local governments, control the pace of new broadband deployment.
Telephone companies have not yet seriously dedicated resources to negotiate franchises in many
markets. Potential video competitors require relatively few franchises to implement their
announced business plans (for AT&T 1,500-2,000 franchises, for Verizon 100-200 franchises).
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-------------
Tech Entrepreneurship and Competition.
States and localities benefit from, and support, competition and innovation and technology neutrality.
When a fully competitive market does not exist, states and localities must retain the authority to ensure
nondiscriminatory access to essential facilities, to prevent incumbents from using market power to stifle
competition and innovation, and to maintain consumer safeguards when market forces fail.
There are arguments for and against net neutrality. The City of Dubuque supports efforts for Internet to
remain a level playing field for all and the FCC to protect an "open internet." Given Dubuque's focus on
small business and innovation, Dubuque would likely be impacted by the anti -competitive risks that come
with ending net neutrality more than other Iowa communities.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City supports legislation that would restore net neutrality.
Broadband Acceleration Initiative
In 2016 the City of Dubuque launched its Broadband Acceleration Initiative. Operating primarily in
public/private collaborations, the Initiative has been a resounding success by increasing broadband access,
capacity, speeds, and competitors. Every business center has redundant high-speed access and a five-year
fiber -to -the -home build -out is underway. Recently the City has added a strong egyfair access
component to the initiative, beginning with free local Wi-Fi and low-cost access options in our lowest
income census tracks. Universal, affordable, high-speed access is the goal, and we are making progress.
However, that progress is hampered by outdated governmental data, policies, and funding priorities. We
believe that the following Federal Broadband Initiatives/Efforts are critical to the continued success of
Dubuque's Broadband Acceleration Initiative.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Continued efforts to produce Immediate and accurate revision of FCC broadband access maps.
It has been acknowledged by industry and both political parties that these maps, which underly
both federal policy and funding decisions on broadband, are outdated, use inaccurate
information and are subject to manipulation by incumbent carriers.
2. Until consensus mapping and data is available, uncouple federal broadband funding decisions
from the current FCC "targeted service area" calculations. As an example, when using ACS
census data, Dubuque shows several lower -income census tracts where 25% to 30% of
households reporting no consistent internet access. However, the "TSA" map by the FCC shows
no (zero) targeted service areas anywhere in the community of Dubuque.
3. Utilize a definition of "served" areas in the realm of broadband connectivity to include the
measures of affordability, availability and accessibility. The problems of available, affordable,
and accessible connectivity, in light of a growing number of devices, and capacity to deliver a
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consistent, usable broadband technology in more densely populated areas are significant
factors contributing to the uneven digital access that exists among residents.
Provide flexibility for the USDA ReConnect Loan and Grant Fund and other broadband access programs to
allow rural and small urban areas (under 100,000 in population) to collaborate on broadband infrastructure
and costs. These areas are intimately connected via transportation networks, labor -sheds, power systems,
and the like. The ability to scale rural efforts via collaboration with small urban areas would accelerate
broadband access to both. From a policy perspective, allow municipalities to treat broadband access as an
essential corporate purpose and dissuade state policymakers from creating state level barriers for
municipal action on broadband.
b. BROADBAND DATA ACT
The availability of accurate and readily accessible data, consistent collection methods across all
carriers/providers and data visualization tools provides a potential means of maintaining an open and fair
internet. By guaranteeing comprehensive, quality information on broadband access, bandwidth, and
speeds across all delivery methods, will result in an ability for cities to monitor services in our communities
The outcome of this initiative results anis the ability to identify and respond to gaps in
telecommunications equity needsaccess in communities serViRg these.most needing broadband services.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support the FCC must collect and disseminate granular broadband service availability data
(broadband maps) from wired, fixed -wireless, satellite, and mobile broadband providers. To do this,
the FCC is required to establish the Broadband Serviceable Location Fabric (a dataset of geocoded
information for all broadband service locations, atop which broadband maps are overlaid) as the
vehicle for reporting broadband service availability data. Additionally, the FCC must put forth
specified requirements for service availability data collected from broadband providers, and it must
create a challenge process to enable the submission of independent data challenging the accuracy
of FCC broadband maps within reasonable windows of time.
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7. INFRASTRUCTURE: PARKS AND RECREATIONAL AREAS
a. LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND (LWCF) - OUTDOOR RECREATION LEGACY
PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM (ORLP)
Land and water conservation fund has been critical to the development of outdoor recreational
opportunities in Dubuque. Past grant awards have funded softball field development for youth and adults,
open space development in the area of historically significant places along the Mississippi River, and
expansion of the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center at the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area. Each of these
developments has been very important to expansion of outdoor recreation. Increased funding of this
program is critical to Dubuque as a partnering source for enhancing outdoor recreation for our citizens
which increases the health and well-being of the community.
The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program awards grants through LWCF supporting
development of new parks and renovating outdoor recreation infrastructure in underinvested urban
communities. Dubuque has leveraged this program twice for a two-phase redevelopment of Dubuque's
Comiskey Park. Phase 1 is complete and has been transformational to the neighborhood, and Phase 2 will
complete the project in 2026-27. It is a gamechanger. This funding is critical to the efforts where every
person, no matter your zip code, can access quality parks and green spaces.
REQUESTED ACTION
Pass the Outdoors for all Act which could codify the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership
Program into law. Increase the overall funding of LWCF and support Land and Water Conservation
Fund (LWCF) state assistance program receives 40% of LWCF funding as projects are more
expensive every year.
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8. CITY/COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES/PROTECTIVE SERVICES
a. COMBINED COMMUNICATION CENTER
The need for a combined 911 Communications Center and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has been
brought to the forefront of the public safety committee after multiple recent events. The current
communications center is undersized for the needs of our increased population and calls for service. The
center is unable to expand to meet the increasing demands of the emergency calls and for future
technologies. The recent disasters that occurred in Dubuque County and the State of Iowa brought the need
for a dedicated emergency operations center to the forefront. The city and county now use the classroom
areas of the Dubuque County Firefighters Training Center which is converted as needed to an EOC operation.
An extended flooding event along the Mississippi River or any other long-term disaster would tax the
resources of the city and county and the current set up would hamper our response to disasters. We are
experiencing more major weather events and disasters, and we have received eight presidential disaster
declarations in the past 18 years. With the recent Pandemic, the Communications Center had to spit into two
rooms because there was not enough room for the dispatchers to be socially distant from one another due
to the small size of the Center. Several call takers had to be moved to another room which caused a slowdown
in response times due to not being in the same room. The City's 911 center needs to have room available for
expansion. A dedicated EOC will allow local government the ability to enhance response and recovery
operations following an event it would also assist us in preparing for planned events that overtax our
response capabilities.
REQUESTED ACTION
Assist the City of Dubuque and Dubuque County in identifying funding support for a combined 911
Center/EOC estimated to cost $16-$19 million dollars.
b. CONTINUE SUPPORT FOR ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTER GRANTS
In weighing opportunities for future expansion of fire units, the City must support vital federal programs
like the Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) grant program. This program can help the City as it seeks to expand
firefighter and paramedic numbers in the future.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support federal efforts to maintain and expand the Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) grant program,
including the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response program.
c. FIRE STATION CONSTRUCTION GRANTS
Fire Station Construction Grants Act authorizes $1 billion in fire station construction grants to be
administered by FEMA. Specifically, it directs FEMA to establish a grant program to modify, upgrade, and
construct fire and EMS department facilities. These grants can be used for:
• Building, rebuilding, or renovating fire and EMS department facilities;
• Upgrading existing facilities to install exhaust emission control systems;
• Installing backup power systems;
• Upgrading or replacing environmental control systems, such as HVAC systems;
• Removing or remediating mold;
• Constructing or modifying living quarters for use by personnel; and
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• Upgrading fire and EMS stations or building new stations to meet modern building codes and
standards as set by the National Fire Protection Association and International Code Council.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support all congressional efforts to introduce and pass the Fire Station Construction Grants Act to
provide funds to the City for the purpose of building new fire and EMS facilities.
d. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS SERVICES PROGRAM
The U.S. Department of Justice's (DOJ) Community Relations Services (CRS) office is the only federal agency
dedicated to working with community groups to resolve conflict and prevent hate crimes. DOJ CRS provides
facilitation, mediation, training, and consultation services to improve communities' abilities to problem solve
and build capacity. New resources are necessary to rebuild trust between local police departments and the
communities they serve. CRS could launch a mini -grant program (up to $20,000 per community) to support
facilitated discussions among police departments, civic groups and institutions, and residents, seeking to
foster community policing approaches and address Facial injustice eenee ^barriers to trust across groups.
REQUESTED ACTION
Expand the DOJ's Community Relations Services program to $30 million annually.
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9. HOUSING
a. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDING
The City of Dubuque relies on CDBG money to fund many of its vital programs. Projects that are at least
partially funded by CDBG include rehabilitation of rental and owner -occupied housing, lead paint hazard
abatement, commercial and industrial building rehabilitation and economic development, childcare referral
services, credit repair programs, to support operations of several non -profits providing direct services to
income -eligible individuals and families, as part of the community development/neighborhood strategy
program. CDBG can be used to further weatherization e4eFts alternative eRergy efforts, and other
initiatives proposed as separate increases in the budget. Preparing additional rules and regulation for new
programs, when the outcomes can be met in existing programs causes duplicative administrative efforts
and required funding for those duplicated efforts. Focusing on programs that are established and produce
stated outcomes will help decrease the overall budget of the United States.
The CDBG formula funding has never been adjusted for inflation (since the inception of the program in
1974), even though construction costs, wages, and other program costs have escalated sharply in the past
four decades. Continued funding of CDBG is needed to provide the flexibility for communities to fund a
myriad of activities, fill gaps where needed, and attract additional resources to projects.
t this tipAeln the FY26 Senate Appropriations Bill, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) is funded
at $331 billion (decreased from $3.473 billion, or 65,o', in the prior year). CDBG resources create economic
opportunity, suitable living environments, and provide decent housing. Nearly 4half of the households in
the City of Dubuque are considered at or below moderate income by HUD's standards, meaning CDBG
resources impact a significant number of our local community members. We strongly encourage the
consideration to increase CDBG funding in FY 20242026.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque asks our congressional members to support the U.S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development's Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) and urge you to
appropriate $3.3 billion in formula funding for the program in FY 20242026. CDBG has been critical
in meeting the public improvement, public services, economic development, and affordable
housing needs in our community. F rtheF theFe is gFeat eppeFtunity fer this pFogFam to suppert
r^h_"010tati^^ of Ipar' ;•f;*^r ;Prwiee line-. The City of Dubuque also requests increased funding for
the administration of the federal Housing Choice Voucher Program.
b. MOBILE HOME COMMUNITY PROTECTIONS
Legislation related to mobile homes and mobile home communities was adopted at a time when mobile
homes were truly mobile. Today, mobile homes are more stationary than they have been
historically. However, the laws both in Iowa 4-wd-sand other states have not been updated to reflect this
important and highly consequential change. Today, some companies are using current law to their financial
benefit and to the detriment of mobile home community residents. These predatory practices are putting
vulnerable citizens in financially precarious situations and sometimes in financial jeopardy. Mobile home
communities can be a viable choice in Iowa's efforts to create affordable housing opportunities across the
state. Therefore, review and reform of current law is vital.
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REQUESTED ACTION
1�1111
ION
..
.
Support Senate Appropriations proposed funding level of $10 million for competitive PRICE grants.
c. AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS
Homelessness is increasing across the nation due to increased untreated mental health issues, lack of
affordable housing, and inflation. Eviction rates in the City of Dubuque are increasing due to the lack of
ability to pay rent. Rents are increasing faster than the cost of living due to a low vacancy rate, which is
seen across the nation due to a shortage of housing units.
The significant changes proposed by the President's requested FY26 budget would consolidate many of the
funding streams under the Homelessness Assistance Grants into one ESG block grant, and would eliminate
Continuum of Care funding, which is necessary for permanent supportive housing and rapid rehousing by
some of our nation's most vulnerable populations.
REQUESTED ACTION
• Support a minimum of $214_5 billion for HUD's homeless assistance grants, including at least
$250290 million for the Emergency Solutions Grant program. Reject the consolidation of grant
streams under HAG funding: support the Continuum of Care program at $4 billion.
• Support funding of the National Housing Trust Fund and support a direct allocation to local
governments once the funds reach $1 billion.
d. ANCHOR INSTITUTIONS
ANCHOR institutions, including hospitals and healthcare systems, colleges, universities, and cultural
institutions, are driving economic development, job creation, and private investments in the struggling
communities they serve. Over the past decade, a national ecosystem of professional associations,
foundations, networks, and consultants has evolved to develop and implement anchor institution -centered
approaches to produce targeted community benefits. With this national network of resources in place,
federal investment could play a key role in catalyzing and supporting the power of anchor institutions to
create vibrant communities. America's cities and towns call for the creation of a new Anchoring
Neighborhoods, Communities & Housing to Opportunities for Revitalization (ANCHOR) Institutions Initiative
at HUD that would provide $250,000 strategic planning grants to communities to boost economic
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development and revitalization in neighborhoods through collaboration with key local anchors. These HUD
ANCHOR grants would support a local plan and/or pilot program that aligns shared interests and leverages
partners' respective strengths to promote improvement in key impact areas: affordable housing,
educational egyfair access, health and wellness, safe and accessible neighborhoods, healthy nutrition,
and workforce development.
REQUESTED ACTION
Create a HUD "ANCHOR Institutions Initiative" $25 million annually.
e. HOMES FOR EVERY LOCAL PROTECTOR, EDUCATOR AND RESPONDER (HELPER) ACT OF
2023
The HELPER Act 1514 / H.R. 3170) seeks to amend the National Housing Act to create
a tailored mortgage insurance program for first responders and teachers. Senator Marco Rubie /o_n
Brown (D QH), Raphael G. Warneck (D GA), Robert MeRendez (D Nj), Catherine Certez Maste (D ,
Rwp-.h-;irr-I Blumenthal (D CT), Riek Scott (R FLI), Tammy Baldwin (D WI) and Rebeft Casey jr. (D PA). in the
(FL 05), jehn Katke (NY 24) and Bennie �.N-atse—n Coleman (Nj 12), and it enjeys suppert from 69 bipartisan
ce-spensers. The HELPER Act aims to provide favorable mortgage terms and conditions for eligible first
responders, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, emergency medical technicians
(EMTs) and teachers. By establishing a dedicated mortgage insurance program, the bill eliminates the
traditional mortgage down payment requirement and monthly mortgage insurance premiums, which can
be substantial barriers to homeownership.
REQUESTED ACTION
SUPPE) t passage of the H€LP€R Act(S. 1514; H.R. 31*
Support passage of the HELPER Act S. 978 1 HR 2094
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10. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Over the past five years, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has dramatically expanded
its role in supporting local and regional economic resilience. Since 2019, EDA has invested more than $6
billion across 3,000+ projects nationwide, targeting communities facing economic distress, industry
disruptions, disasters, and recovery needs. These investments have helped create or retain over 550,000
jobs and have leveraged more than $67 billion in private investment, demonstrating EDA's ability to unlock
substantial non-federal capital for infrastructure, workforce, entrepreneurship, and innovation initiatives.
EDA funding remains highly competitive and consistently oversubscribed, even as communities face
increasing costs for mob -creating infrastructure, industrial site readiness, technology adoption, and
workforce trainine. Recent federal emphasis on advanced manufacturine and innovation underscores EDA's
growing importance as a catalyst for local economic competitiveness.
REQUESTED A •
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The Citv respectfully reauests that ConL-ress increase annual EDA aDorooriations and maintain
strong support for programs that fund industrial sites, workforce facilities, innovation
infrastructure, and community revitalization. Additional capacity in these programs would allow
cities like ours to compete more effectively for transformational projects and accelerate private -
sector investment that strengthens local economies.
b. FEDERAL HISTORIC TAX CREDITS
The Federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit is the nation's largest federal incentive promoting urban and rural
revitalization through private investment in reusing historic buildings. The credit encourages reinvestment
in downtowns, generates jobs, and is instrumental in preserving the historic places that give cities, towns,
and rural areas their unique character. For every one dollar invested through the Federal Historic
Preservation tax credit, five dollars are leveraged from the private sector. The credit is not paid until all the
restoration work is complete and approved by the US Department of Interior. Dubuque has seen total
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improvements valued at $225 m 0 llien925million since 1985 in the downtown-,,9-R-/Main Street and-E)R the
.fFeR
artc.
The City of Dubuque strongly supports the continuation and expansion of the Federal Historic Tax Credit
(HTC), recognizing its transformative impact on revitalizing historic communities and driving economic
development. As a city deeply committed to preservation, we align with the advocacy efforts of the
National Trust Community Investment Corporation and the National Trust for Historic Preservation in
emphasizing the HTC's role as a vital tool for fostering public -private partnerships and enhancing the
unique character of our neighborhoods. Historic rehabilitation projects supported by the HTC have
catalyzed investment in Dubuque, creating jobs, attracting tourism, and maintaining the integrity of our
historic architecture. With the 119th Congress poised to address significant tax policy reforms, we urge
lawmakers to protect and improve the HTC, ensuring it remains a strong driver of community revitalization
nationwide. Dubuque stands ready to collaborate with national preservation organizations, the Historic Tax
Credit Coalition, and advocates nationwide to ensure robust congressional support for this critical
program.
Of note: The Historic Tax Credit Coalition is working on a legislative proposal to eliminate the basis
reduction requirement for the Historic Tax Credit in its entirety. Experts estimate that making this change
would almost entirely make up for the lost value from the new requirement that the credit be taken over
five years.
REQUESTED ACTION
We urge you to support the HTC-GO and companion legislation, which will make redevelopment
projects more financially feasible and unlock substantial private investment that strengthens
Dubuque's historic districts and drives long-term economic growth.
c. NEW MARKET TAX CREDIT PROGRAM
The New Markets Tax Credit NMTC program esremains a petentialvaluable financing tool for major
economic development projects in Dubuque, including the Historic Millwork District restoration arrd
r&Vi+ wand the Dubuque Pack site redevelopment. Unf^rtunat^',,,With the program has not
b^. efite d Fur;,' st-,+^s; -,^d+ now permanently authorized under HR 1-2025, communities in the same m^^^^
accessible ie-can plan projects with greater long-term certainty. However, rural states and smaller
communities in -continue to face challenges accessing NMTC allocations at the same rate as larger
metropolitan areas. Enhancing rural statesaccess and encouraging more equitable allocation practices
would strengthen Dubuque's ability to leverage the program for transformational projects.
Whileheeefltthe City f Dubuque and its paFt..eFS in the private ^,.t
ddi+i^^^" y the NMTC's flexibility of the pmgFamis desii-a"'�an advantage, itsaecempanying
complexity;,;Feasesstill drives up legal, accounting, and Community Development Entity (CDE) I
eaeh pFejeet is unique and thus Fequires exteRsive planning and eveFsight te aehieve and maintain pFE)gFaFR
ee Rce Th^s;^ increased fees reduce tb^ arne, int-Gfcosts, which can significantly reduce the net equity
available for the project, often rather signifieantly. Hung W. te rtrP;;r:AIinP
the to a project.
Streamlining compliance and reducing transaction costs would benefit project, -,^d e.m.m. ni+ies improve
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the program's effectiveness —particularly for smaller or mid -sized projects typical in rural regions —and
ensure that m-'-^ use ^f this funding tee more of the incentive directly supports community revitalization.
REQUESTED ACTION
We ask our federal delegation to support reforms that increase access to NMTC allocations, reduce
transaction costs, and ensure that the program more effectively supports mid -sized community
redevelopment projects such as those underway in Dubuque.
O C/'11 ICC'TCfI A/"TI/l l�l
Centinued suppert of thus important pregrarn for urban revitalizafien and support any eppertunities-
to simplify the pFegFam fer the end
d. CHILDCARE
Access to quality affordable childcare supports our economy by allowing parents to participate fully in the
workforce. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6-770% of children under the age of 6 in the
United States have all available parents in the workforce, and 6955% of children under the age of 5
participated in regular weekly care arrangements prior to COVID-19. More recently, especially post -
pandemic, a substantial share of parents report no formal child-care arrangement at all. In a 2022-2023
survey, 35% of parents with children under 5 said they had no childcare arrangement.
In general, today's childcare model is not sustainable for either the parent or the childcare provider — the
cost is too high for parents to afford compared to their wages, and simultaneously the wages for the
childcare providers are too low to attract and retain quality employees. Creating supports for both parents
and childcare providers bolsters our workforce and helps our employers retain employees with children.
COVID-19 has exacerbated this issue.
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REQUESTED ACTION
Increase the am A upt AfaIIowa ble pretax d^"^rs that families ^a^ ^'ae^ On contribution limit for
employer -sponsored �'^^^^�'^^+ ^re assi tanee plans -Dependent Care Assistance Plans
(DCAPs), theFefere pFevidin . so families • ith m^r^ ^^+ ^^have greater flexibility and financial
teefscapacity to keep tippace with rising childcare costs..""
Deyelep Iegisl^+;^^ ipregrarns +^ SUPPeFt.. The current federal limit — $5,000 per household
Per year — has not increased in decades and is far below the actual annual cost of childcare in
most states (often $10,000-$18,000 for infants).
• Support wages and benefits for childcare ^ ide-s, i^^h•^'i^^legislation and increased funding
fe,� ChiIdca,zfederal appropriations —particularly through the Child Care and Development
Block 6raRts.Grant (CCDBG-�)—that raise wages and expand benefits for childcare providers to
stabilize and grow the childcare workforce.
e. EPA BROWNFIELDS PROGRAM
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) BFewnfi^'^'Brownfields & Land Revitalization program
"^T— first established in the mid-1990s and reauthorized under the Brownfields Utilization.
Investment, and Local Development (BUILD) Act — continues to serve as a bipartisan success fer 25+ years
created by President gill Clinten, authORied with the signature ef President Geerge W. Bush, and
threugh the BUILD Aet enacted by Congress and signed by Preside-Int DAGn-pird Trump in 2019. This EPA . The
program provides grants and technical assistance to support environmental ^�+o +?^^assessments,
cleanup, reuse planning, lob training and WeFI(feFee develop communitV engagement to, ehelp
transform closed factories, abandoned gas stations, and other contaminated sites. To date or under-utilized
properties into productive community assets. As of fiscal year 2025, the program has supported the
assessment of 41,871 properties, cleanup of 2,969 properties, and preparation of 175,385 acres for
anticipated reuse. According to EPA, these efforts have helped leverage'80,200 jobs, leveraged
$5approximately $44 billion in combined public and private investment, cleaned up "6' properties and
helped make 144,000+ acres ready fer reuse. Eon ffevid a PPFe)(iFn^+^l., $9G and supported about
226,567 mobs. In May 2025, EPA awarded $267 million min brewnfiefdBrownfields grants -,but
nationwide — the largest single round of funding to date — signaling a maior expansion in capacity.
Nevertheless, demand still outpaces supply: many highs well -scored applications do not receive full
funding.
REQUESTED ACTION
Congress should permanently 4H dreauthorize the EPA bFewnfield program Brownfields Program at
0ts 2017or above the historical authorized level e4Lf 250 million annually, and fecus ^^ or more
and ensure that subsequent appropriations reflect that authorization. Bolstered by recent infusion
of funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. long-term stable funding would support
brownfields cleanup and reuse, spur economic recovery, and resiliency, and advance renewable
energy-,-a-nd deployment, greenspace-
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..
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E)PPE)FtU Rities fA-.r IA_;.AV 0 pee -Me �a ned rn a Pe Fity Arne rica RS tA- buil P-1 %yea equitable redevelopment.
annually.F-Stabl4sh -;; new intergovernmental agency "Build Back Planning Grant" program $25 Million
g. ARTS & CULTURE
Arts, culture, the creative economy, and related educational opportunities are powerful forces in our
nation's economy. The sector drives tourism and arts -related commerce supports American workers —from
graphic and software designers to scholars, architects, artists, performers, and curators - while inspiring our
communities in entrepreneurial efforts. Arts and culture institutions and programs allow Americans to
dream of fresh possibilities and to expand their horizons as thinkers and citizens in a world of complex ideas
and technologies, as well as to contribute to the cultural legacy of the nation. Access to creativity, the arts,
and cultural expression is an inherent good; it also can awaken the potential for a better quality of life and
advances efforts to preserve and give voice to diverse cultures. Engagement with the arts and cultural
experiences allows Americans to fully realize their creative and imaginative potential rooted in cultural
heritage as individuals and as communities. This area of legislative consideration also includes funding and
support for nationwide humanities work through federal organizations such as the National Endowment for
the Humanities (NEH) which supports the research, education, preservation, and public programs in the
humanities.
• In 20222023, the arts, culture, and creative economy generated over $142 trillion in economic
activity, representing 4.32% of the GDP. -In 20222024, non-profit arts and culture organizations
and their audiences generated $151.7 billion in economic activity -$73.3 billion ;n spendiRg by
th,e-, which leveraged an additional $78.4 billion in event -related expenditures by their
audiences.
• The United States has exported more arts and cultural goods and services than it imported
since 2006, including during the Great Recession. The US arts and culture trade surplus
increased from $1521.5 billion to $2436.8 billion between 20212022 and 20222023.
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The arts and culture sector supported 2-.65.4 million jobs in 2023. In 2022 arts and culture
provided $101 billion in personal income to residents and generated $29.1 billion in tax
revenue to local, state, and federal governments.
• The NEH budget serves as a significant leveraging tool that has helped create an entire industry
of locally based small business and jobs that cannot be outsourced. The NEH estimates that its
20242025 investment in grantees will include $440.79.55 million in support of projects in the
humanities and $78.25 ..Bill.,.. i-..-.J.- to NPH's paFt eFs
• The National Endowment for the Arts awarded funds to 1.474 oreanizations total
$36.79million to support the arts in all 50 states. Puerto Rico, and Washington DC. A significant
percentage of NEA grants go to those who have fewer opportunities to participate in the arts.
4234% of Arts Endowment grants take place in high -poverty neighborhoods, and 39 of gr Rts
ceachreaching low-income audiences of underserved populations. The majority of grants go to
small and medium sized organizations (with operating budgets of less than $2 mil Iien2miIlion).
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The Dubuque City Council prioritizes arts and culture, identifying access to diverse arts and culture
experiences for all as one of eight 2037 goals. In 2015, the Arts & Culture Master Plan was commissioned
and funded, with the resulting plan adopted in 2016. Since 2005, the City has provided over $5.04 million
dollars in financial support to Dubuque arts and cultural organizations through direct grant programs that
support operations and new projects and a rotating public art program. According to a 2022 Arts &
Economic Impact Study conducted by Americans for the Arts, Dubuque's non-profit arts and culture sector
in Dubuque generates $ 70.4 million in annual economic activity, supports 1,527 FTE jobs, generates $6.7
million in local and state tax revenues, and infuses $41.6 million in household incomes to local residents.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Support the administration's FY24FY26 budget request of $24-5209. million for the National
Endowment for the Arts (NEA).
2. Support the administration's FY24 iRcr ed f RdiR^FY26 budget request of $4209 million for
the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH).
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4.3. Support the administration's FY24 ;ner ed fURdin^FY26 budget request of $&5-5294.8 million
for the Institute of Museum and Library Sciences (IMLS-�) within the Labor, Health and
Education appropriations bill.
54.Support;T;acontinued investment in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESSA)
and its Assistance for Arts Education (AAE) program.
6 S.Fully f Continue funding the FY24 $2.2 billion Student Support and Academic Enrichment
Grants provisions of ESSA under Title IV, Part A, as well as to make explicit the opportunity for
the arts to help achieve the equitable access objectives of Title I and the professional
development opportunities for arts educators under Title II.
8-.6. Support the Artist -Museum Partnership Act (H.R.1793) which would allow aFt+startists to take
income tax deductions for the fair market value of their work when they donate it to charitable
collecting institutions and enact 5.618/H.R. 1704 and pass the Legacy IRA Act (5.243) to expand
and strengthen charitable giving to the nonprofit arts sector.
-9-.7. Support inclusion and investment in arts in health programs such as the National Initiative for
Arts and Health Across the Military led by Americans for the Arts.
1-0-.8. Support the collection of federal creative economy legislation under consideration.
Through public policy, these seven bills can collectively achieve a stronger creative sector,
which would drive economic growth and social cohesion, ensuring a better and more creative
life for all:
a. CREATIVE: Bill number: H.R. 917-52485, sponsored by Congresswoman Suzanne
Bonamici (OR-01) -- The'"°C�'€Arts Education for All Act expands the National
to -lee 4supports and encourages arts nenprefit arts ^ zatiens and ^*"^r
aFtS Felatea J instit itie s F FtheF the bill preyi des funding to 1Ar1 ,r1;(2 xPr1education and
FuFal n „latiens by FeseFvmng a peFeentage of NEA g nt f„ +&n programming for
these Fespeetive eemmuni youth and adults in early learning centers, K-12 schools,
and juvenile justice facilities by clarifying that certain federal programs may support
arts education, and requiring states to make a plan to increase access to ats education
programs in K-12 schools and juvenile justice facilities..
b. PLACE: Bill numbers: HR 6569 / 5.3560, sponsored: Sen. Brian SehatizEdward Markey (D-
HI) Rep Chellie Pingr^^MA), Richard Blumenthal Cory Booker (D-NJ), and
Jeff Merkley (D-OR)- The Promoting Local Arts and Creative Economy Workforce Act
(PLACE Act) bolsters local creative economies and workers in creative industries. It
amends existing legislation to include the arts, creates new creative economy grants,
and directs funding for creative businesses.
c. CREATE: Bill numbers: HR 6381 / 5.35213759 , sponsors: Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hlj J
John Cornyn (R-TX), Rep. Oebbi Dingell (D MI) The bi partisanj Comprehensive
Resources for Entrepreneurs in the Arts to Transform the Economy Act (CREATE Act)
aligns policy to serve those that make our creative economy prosper. It expands SBA
and EDA loan programs and integrates creative work into support programs.
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rl f ERA. Bill numbers;- HR 5019 / S. 2859 spensers: Rep Teresa Leger r Fern ;ndez (n_NM)
Rep. jay n'h RTeTlte(R EA, ),Se Luj"Cl /n_NM) The rTITfl O�C GOr
festivals, ,
public aFt, narrative gathering from fiFSt FeSpenders and marginalized ,
and arts educatwen werk.
e-d. PATPA: Bill numbers: HR 4750721 / S. 28721121, sponsors: Rep 'udy Chu (D CA) Rep
Vern B ehanan (R FL), . Sen. k WarneFV ), Se... Bill 1 lageFt T"" Thom Tillis
(R-NC) , Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH)-- The Performing Arts Tax Parity Act (PATPA), a bi-
partisan bill in both the House and the Senate, updates the Qualified Performing Artist
tax deduction, modernizing a provision that has been on the books since it was signed
into law in the 1980's so that middle-class arts workers can deduct common business
expenses.
3-2-.9. Support legislation to invest in the country's creative economy and promote economic
inclusion; to recognize artists, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit arts organizations as contributors
to the small business community; improve and revitalize rural, remote, and underserved areas;
and support the creative economy through federal programs and actions. Direct the SBA and
other agencies to ensure existing economic development programs and tools encompass the
creative economy; ensure inclusion of creative fields in vocational education and training
supports; increase comprehensive measurement of the impact of the creative economy on the
overall US economy.
3-3-.10. Support legislation and programs that improve the health and well-being of the military
and veterans' populations through the arts.
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11. PUBLIC HEALTH
a. PUBLIC HEALTH FUNDING
For over 20 years, local public health agencies have been creating, refining, updating, and utilizing their
Public Health Emergency Preparedness Response Plans (PHEPRP.) Before and soon after the 9/11 attacks,
local public health followed the national initiative of preparing for biological, chemical, radiological,
weather, and other public health related disasters and emergencies. Simultaneously, we experienced more
and more newly emerging infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS, resistant TB, MRSA, West Nile, Ebola,
Zika, Cyclospora, E. coli 0157:H7, SARS, MERS, H1N1 influenza, Toxic Shock Syndrome and COVID-19. These
along with re-emerging outbreaks of diseases we thought we had conquered such as mumps, measles and
whooping cough continue to persist along with outbreaks from new sources or ways of spread from
pathogens such as crypto sporidia, giardia, salmonella, shigella, and Hantavirus. Congress responded to
most of these with limited term, disease specific and preparedness planning funding to states, who in turn
funded local health departments and public health agencies through grant processes. As the outbreaks
subsided and healthcare learned to treat the infectious diseases the funding was reallocated to other
priorities or cut entirely. This reactionary, short-term public health funding does not create a system or
public health agencies are ready to respond to epidemics and pandemics,, climate, and weather -related
emergencies etc. in a timely and effective manner.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Public health requires ongoing funding, education, and resources to prepare for and respond to
public health emergencies, including those that happen at the state, local, federal and world
levels. A robust national disease data collection and analysis system is needed to prepare for
future, outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics.
2. ARPA and CARES money is one-time and specifically for COVID relief. Local public health
agencies (LPHAs) need dedicated, reliable, and flexible funding to deliver on their community
Health Needs Assessments and Health Improvement Plans (CHNA/HIPs) and address the "social
morbidities" of COVID that will be seen for years if not generations to come.
3. Strengthen the Public Health Workforce through increased funding for state and local public
health infrastructure. Specifically, by supporting incentives to diversify the public health
workforce and increase public health and healthcare training and loan forgiveness programs
4. Support the creation of a $4.5 billion mandatory fund for core public health infrastructure
activities at the CDC and state, local, tribal and territorial public health departments. The Public
Health Infrastructure Saves Lives Act would establish this funding to support essential activities
such as: disease surveillance, epidemiology, laboratory capacity, all -hazards preparedness and
response; policy development and support; communications; community partnership
development; and organizational competencies. A reliable, long-term funding stream for these
activities is essential for anticipating and responding to future public health emergencies like
the COVID-19 pandemic.
b ACC-2 E SS T—n .61EAT I_.W CAR E_r�GnIT ('nn4nn1 1N ITy uEA T�ETErLEA D PO1SONING
PREVENTION
In 2025, significant cuts were enacted for the CDC's Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP),
including eliminating most of the program's staff and potentially cutting its $51 million annual funding,
which halted state assistance for surveillance, testing, and prevention efforts for lead exposure in children,
creating major concerns for local health departments. The City of Dubuque receives some of this funding
from Iowa Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct lead poisoning prevention and case management
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of lead poisoned children activities. Local health departments rely on the states' ability to compile, track
and analyze data, providing epidemiology expertise on a state and local level.
REQUESTED ACTION
Restore CDC Lead Poisoning Prevention Funding in the National Center for Environmental Health to
continue funds to states, keep CDC health tracking programs, and restore lead poisoning expertise
at the CDC.
c. LEAD IN DRINKING WATER
The EPA's new Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) rule mandates that all states develop plans to
replace all lead service lines within a decade, with some flexibility for states with extensive infrastructure.
Federal funding is crucial for municipalities to comply with these regulations. Additional costs for Lead
Service Line Replacement (LSLR) under the EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) stem from the
mandated full replacement (utility & private side), potentially increasing average costs to $10,000-$14,000
per line, plus expenses for sampling, inventory, corrosion control, filters, and public education, totaling
billions annually, though federal funds (BIL) and utility strategies aim to offset homeowner burdens and find
efficiencies.
REQUESTED ACTION
Provide adequate funding to states and local municipalities to remove and replace lead service
lines.
CCESS TO HEALTHCARE —SUPPORT INCREASED COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTE
NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE CORPS, AND TEACHING HEALTH CENTER FUNDING
Community Health Centers (C4G�sCHCS) across the country have consistently demonstrated the value of
the care they provide. Community Health Centers are an affordable and accessible source of primary and
preventive health care for nearly 2-9over 52 million underserved individuals nationwide, including 253,000
here in Iowa. In 242-22025, Crescent served 8-,24-6well over 12,000 patients for a total of 29,177 patient
i its
vsmedical, dental and behavioral health care-, with the total showing no signs of decreasing.
CHC's provide targeted investments to boost services and enhance the primary care workforce.
One of the largest factors limiting a Community Health Center's ability to provide patients quality care is
recruiting and retaining quality providers. Long-term and Support Iowa community health center's
workforce to address shortages throughout the state, including investments in recruitment and retention
strategies, training, and loan repayment with a focus on dentists, dental assistants, medical assistants,
nurses, hygienists, and other support staff.
The National Health Services Corps (NHSC) loan repayment and scholar programs are essential recruitment
tools for CHC's and must be sustained. In Iowa, more than 50 providers working in CHCs are current
recipients of NHSC support or have completed their obligations and chose to continue practicing at CHCs.
Additionally, the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) program trains the future
safety net workforce by directly embedding residents within CHCs. CHCs need approximately $20.65 billion
annually in CHC and primary care workforce funding to meet patient demand and continue delivering high -
quality, affordable care.
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REQUESTED ACTION
We urge leaders in both chambers to work together to pass critical, multi -year extension for CHC
mandatory funding at the maximal funding level. We also urge passage of an appropriations
package that protects Community Health Center funding.
Federal grant funding for the Health Center program currently c^m^r fr^m +.°V^ sources: needs
reauthorization. Requested funding levels include:
a. $1.7 billien annual diseretienary appropriations and
�g
• At least $5.8 billion ;n the G .,,.,,unity Wealth Genre Fs Fund (GHCF).annually for CHCs for two
years
0 $950 million annually for the National Health Service Corps (NHSC)
• $2.1 billion over five years for the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education
(THCGME) program I
e. PROTECTING ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE PRESCRIPTION DRUGS
The 340E Drug Pricing Program is an essential source of support for Community Health Centers, allowing
them to stretch increasingly scarce federal resources and reinvest in patient care. The program allows
he -At" r^Rte-r- CHCs to purchase outpatient drugs at significantly reduced costs. He-Ath eenters nn«CHCs
then use resources from the savings on t theiF patients thFeugh ,-^d, eed , FUg n Rd ; er-A admitiA—Aa'
savings-p ogram to expand healthcare services, help patients access affordable prescription drugs, and
improve health outcomes. The 34Gb340B program is not funded by taxpayers. Drug manufacturers are
required to participate ;f they and in t#e-Iowa, resources generated from Medicaid Drug to
0 ef the entire 340b program to previde
services and S , k to patients, ; ,.lulling elinical pharw,acy, care „rdin-;#iA-n -,n,l I
.ioti n dr„^ costs. directly imaact the state's budeet as Iowa Medicaid retains resources from these
patients.
�.
1 M....
NONNI�.�
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F-ffA-.rt-,; tA- climate chaRge and reduce greenhouse gases -;hA----Ir-1 rn-awirnize -hp-.np-fit--,; te- health -Pnc[
eRSUre pellutie—n is cle-aned up in all cemmunities, including these near pelluting that have histerica
Protecting the 340B Program ensures patients have access to affordable, often life-saving prescription
drugs and CHCs can reinvest resources from the program back into access. As one of the few programs that
is proven to help patients access affordable prescription drugs, we need to safeguard the original intent of
340B.
REQUESTED ACTION
Dubuque haS r-tPmP-JeS an lewering the inc--idle-Rc--en of lead pemsening by Feducing lead paint
hazardsHeiPever, with the revired Eenters#Ar F)+sease C-entre event+e„(C4)Q
,
Protect access to the 340E Program to sustain community health centers' essential model of care,
lower prescription drug costs for patients, and improve health outcomes.
Expanding Access to Comprehensive Care- behavioral health and dental services.
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All Iowa CHCs currently have waiting lists for behavioral health and/or dental services. Investing in
CHC infrastructure will expand access in Iowa, particularly in rural areas or where access to
healthcare is particularly dire. These investments would support expansion of services and physical
locations, improvements to technology, and allowing CHC remain viable employers and producers
of economic activity in their communities. Investing in this model will reduce healthcare costs, keep
patients from accessing more costly care such as emergency rooms, and generate economic growth
through expanded iob opportunities, construction, etc.
REQUESTED ACTION
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Appropriate funds for capital expenditures to support community health center infrastructure to
expand access to care.
f. AUTHORIZE PERMANENT MEDICARE TELEHEALTH FLEXIBILITIES
Telehealth services help address geographic, economic, transportation, and linguistic barriers to healthcare
access while boosting staff retention and decreasing no-shows and missed appointments. Because CHCs are
required to offer comprehensive services in areas of high need, including sparsely populated rural areas,
CHCs are oioneering the use of telehealth to expand access to aualitv healthcare services. especially
behavioral health services. to their over 31 million patients.
REQUESTED ACTION
Congressional action is needed to extend pandemic telehealth flexibilities to allow CHCs to bill
Medicare for telehealth as a distant site and for audio -only under the PPS rate.
IMPROVING MATERNAL CARE ACCESS AND OUTCOMES
Access to quality care is vital both during pregnancy and beyond, providing a foundation for optimal health
for years to come. In 2023, more than 400,000 babies were born in counties with limited or no access to
maternity care. Additionally, healthcare costs related to pregnancy are often very expensive, creating
another barrier to maternitv care for manv women.
H.R. 9049, introduced by Rep. Zach Nunn, would provide grants to states to assist with coordinated
maternity care through maternal health homes for pregnant women on Medicaid, including community
health centers. Research shows increased access to and utilization of maternity care can reduce instances
of pregnancy -related complications, leading to better health outcomes and lower costs to the healthcare
system overall.
REQUESTED ACTION
• ln+ decezlegislation yAt-h incentives fee -lrecaIrIy Irnd cIm' Trcrto �planning
• Establish pregrarn and funding guidance fA-.r PROTECT, and ether transpertatien resilience and
,rh.,n lenpregrarnstee Or the Bipartisan I.,frA1;tr,1r-+i1rp Law
_$ Kg?ts
• Fully *Fnplea.m.e.nt Justor--p-40- app-1 e.pvirenmeRtal justice mapping initiatives aeFess e-evered
+Farmertatien h. using and ,
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Planning led zening FefeFm is I(ey te tackling many ef the greatest Challenges espee44y
pee le te Support legislation that aims to improve access to maternity care and
improve outcomes.
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12. PLANNING
a. HOUSING & ZONING REFORM
Communities across the nation are confronting the urgent challenges of housing supply shortages and
outdated zoning regulations. With a national housing deficit of at least 3.9 million homes, federal
leadership is essential to help localities expand housing options and choices that meet the diverse needs of
residents. Planners urge Congress and the Administration to champion policies that strengthen local
planning capacity, incentivize housing supply solutions, and modernize zoning frameworks to support
attainable, equitable, and abundant housing for all.
Economic pressures —including high interest rates, inflation, workforce challenges, and limited housing
inventory —underscore the need for immediate federal partnership in advancing locally driven reforms. By
aligning federal programs and resources with community -led planning and zoning initiatives, Congress can
help unlock development potential, improve economic mobility, and ensure that local governments have
the tools necessary to address housing affordability and availability. Locally led zoning reform, supported by
strategic federal engagement, is key to building resilient, inclusive, and economically vibrant communities
nationwide.
the federal
are,
governFneRt has a pivetal role to play iR premetiRg reform by pFeVidiRg
esseRtial data, advaReiRg legislatien
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REQUESTED ACTION
• dProvide funding for the Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing (PRO Housing) program
• Fund and finance adaptive reuse housing projects
• Modernize and expand the Low -Income Housing Tax Credit program
• Renew Opportunity Zones with an improved housing focus
• Fund vital federal housing tools, such as Community Development Block Grants, HOME, Choice
Neighborhoods, vouchers, rural housing, and homelessness assistance.
• Improve federal housing finance programs for "missing middle," multifamily, and mixed -use
housing
New funding and fiscal tools are important. but ultimatelv insufficient to meet the moment and support
critical reforms alone. Congress should also act to provide policy research, models, and data; remove
outdated and unnecessary regulatory barriers; support key code reforms; and align housing supply and
planning with federal infrastructure. economic development. and energv initiatives. Needed oolicv actions
r'.9=0
• Direct HUD, in coordination with DOT and other federal agencies, to expand efforts to provide
frameworks, models, and analysis for local zoning, building code, and land use reforms
• Create new models for modular housing and remove outdated definitions that limit
manufactured and modular housing
• Streamline environmental reviews for targeted housing projects and support state and local
building code reforms
• Ensure policies in key existing housing and infrastructure programs meet today's needs and
support a comprehensive approach to community growth and development
• Incorporate pro -housing policies and local reforms into transportation, infrastructure, and
environmental programs
b. CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROGRAM
The Certified Local Government (CLG) program was established as part of the National Historic Preservation
Act of 1966 to create federal, state, and local governmental partnerships, provide historic preservation
training and technical assistance, and encourage preservation and wise use of historic resources at the local
level.
In Iowa, the Certified Local Government program is one of the historic preservation offerings of the State
Historic Preservation Office, part of the State Historical Society of Iowa, a division of the Iowa Department
of Cultural Affairs. To participate in the CLG program, a local government must have a local historic
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preservation program that complies with CLG program requirements. To qualify for or obtain "certified
status", the local government must demonstrate that its local historic preservation program meets certain
standards.
For the local government, its staff and Historic Preservation Commission, there are some direct benefits of
participating in the CLG program. There is free historic preservation training and technical assistance from
the State's historic preservation staff. Participating cities and counties receive a start-up preservation
reference library for use in developing and administering the program. Cities and counties in the CLG
program qualify for a small, competitive, matching CLG grant program that is open only CLG program
participants. These federal pass -through grants can be used to underwrite all historic preservation activities
except rehabilitation.
In Iowa, the CLG program has helped cities and counties to develop their local historic preservation
programs as a tool to help promote downtown revitalization; to protect, stabilize and revive historic
neighborhoods; and to provide an authentic foundation for heritage tourism.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque supports continued federal funding for the Certified Local Government (CLG)
Program.
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13. SUSTAINABLE & RESILIENT COMMUNITIES
The City of Dubuque identified becoming a more sustainable city as one of its top priorities in 2006. Since
then, multiple strategies and practices have been implemented to make Dubuque a more sustainable
community. In 2016, the City was honored to be recognized as one of the White House's 16 Climate Action
Champions. The City is a member of Climate Communities, ICLEI and the Urban Sustainability Directors
Network and joins those organizations in supporting local government action on climate change and
resiliency as essential for America to achieve energy independence, renew economic prosperity and
preserve biodiversity. We are in the middle of an environmental crisis that most acutely impacts those who
are already marginalized and vulnerable. Federal policies must empower local governments with the tools
and resources to respond to climate and social challenges. We request your support in achieving the
following goals:
• Invest in local climate capacity through annual federal appropriations such as the Storm water
and Drinking Water funding and Green Infrastructure programs.
• Build self-reliant communities that are prepared for climate impacts.
Support community revitalization by enacting legislation that enables basic sustainability
principles, such as historic preservation, improved energy efficiency, brownfield redevelopment,
and community redevelopment.
Local governments rely on the federal government to regulate in sectors where municipalities cannot. This
is especially true for environmental regulation, and we advocate for robust federal environmental
protections to bolster local governments' climate efforts.
Inflation Reduction Act
Maintain the Inflation Reduction Act and the funding made available to local governments to pay for clean
energy, electric vehicles and green building projects; as well as funding for businesses, residents and non-
profits. Specifically maintain tax credits and elective pay provisions and continue the home energy
efficiency and electrification rebates.
Weatherization Assistance Program
Dubuque, like communities across the country, is striving to increase equitable access to affordable housing
for all residents. Excessive energy costs exacerbate the housing cost burden low-income residents
experience. On average, low-income households spend 7.8 percent of annual income on energy services,
compared to 3 percent of income for all households. Recognizing the increasing cost of energy and the
significant impact this required cost has on low- and moderate -income residents, the City advocates for
continued sufficient funding of the Weatherization Assistance Program and that funds be used to invest in
home improvements wherever possible. By investing in improvements rather than assisting with energy
bills, these funds can be used to fix the root of the problem rather than putting a band -aid on it.
National Energy Planning Policy
The City encourages adoption of a long-term, sustainable national energy policy, addressing decreasing
availability of petroleum, energy self-sufficiency, economic competitiveness, greenhouse gas emissions,
environmental protection, and social equity. This policy should recognize and separate the long-term
development of replacement and alternative energy sources from short-term fluctuations in market prices
for energy. This policy should also recognize the impact that energy -efficient land use patterns, building
design, and transportation modalities have on the demand for energy.
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Data and Measurement
The City recognizes the importance of easy, consistent, and affordable access to energy data at the
community level as an integral component of energy, sustainability, healthy communities, and community
planning. We advocate for transparent data processes that allow communities to review utility data while
also ensuring adequate data security and privacy.
PACE Financing
We encourage federal and state legislation supporting Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing so
that the costs associated with energy efficiency improvements can be shared by the property owners who
experience the benefits of those improvements.
Environmental Justice
We support state and federal efforts in striving to attain environmental equity and justice with regard to
the siting of energy facilities, resource extraction, energy generation, distribution infrastructure, and
energy -related waste disposal.
Distributed Energy Generation
The City supports distributed energy generation systems that utilize community energy generation and
"smart grid" public infrastructure that supports both conservation and energy efficiency.
Smart Grid Technology
We support modernization of the nation's electrical grid that will allow for the efficient integration of
innovative technologies such as renewable energy systems and electric vehicles and makes it possible to
offer dynamic electricity pricing options that can reduce strain on the grid while benefitting consumers.
Advances in metering technology also create opportunities to provide consumers with access to more
information about their electricity usage and costs, which can inform their decisions about energy
consumption.
Research and Development
The City recognizes that in the short-term, oil, coal, and natural gas will continue to be significant sources of
energy for the United States and other nations until other forms of energy can be developed at a scale to
adequately replace the world's reliance on fossil fuels. Therefore, continued focused research and
development in improving the efficient use of these sources while reducing the environmental costs must
be a high priority for the United States. We support expanded research and development funding and
efforts to create and improve alternative and renewable energy sources and the development of energy
transition scenarios for use by local officials and the general public.
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14. INDIAN GAMING REGULATIONS
The City is concerned about the uncontrolled growth of Indian Casinos on off premises (reservation) lands.
The City supports legislation that places safeguards on the growth of Indian casinos.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Rewrite Section 20 of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), which authorizes reservation
shopping. This means that under no circumstances can a tribe that already has land in trust
acquire more land that is not contiguous to its reservation and use it for gaming. This will put a
permanent end to reservation shopping.
2. Give local communities a seat at the table during the process to mitigate impacts of casinos
proposed by newly recognized or restored tribes. This means the tribe and local community
must enter into a memorandum of understanding where the tribe must pay the community for
mitigation of direct effects of the casino on infrastructure and services like transportation and
public safety.
3. Ban any attempts to establish off -reservation casinos outside of the state where the tribe
presently resides.
4. Allow States to regulate Fantasy Sports and internet gambling.
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Page 1336 of 1459
The City „f Dubuque's Imagine Dubuque CeFAP.^h.,.•,. iye Plan is premisedl1uman rights in the thFe
sustainability - having a viable, lovable, and equitable eemmunity. As the plan notes, "[aln eq- kable
community is eleeming, United States are facing significant challenges that demand urgent attention.
Despite longstanding commitments to fair, and just with the eppertu * access for peeple to have the
Teanstishepe of achieving their gears." Yet local,'y,,-regionally, natienally weall communities, structural
issues continue to
,
housieg; shape outcomes in education, housing programs, healthcare, and criminal justice - Faee can still be
used as a predicter of negative life eutenerness in the aggregate. The Gity us a FnembeF ef the GeveFnrneRt
^"*_nce en R.ace and Equity and e*Rs, disproportionately affecting underrepresented communitiesaeress
Win. These failings undermine the dignity and freedoms of millions. Fixing them is essential not only
to uphold the principles enshrined in supporting local gevernmeRt tier OR - vandR equity, le iRg With
race. FedeFal pelicies must empewer local governments thp- tA_A_Is and re_SA_'_.rP_e_S te -Advance Facial
egUity-the Constitution but also to ensure that every person can live with safety, opportunity, and respect.
Addressine these iniustices is not oational. it's a moral imaerative for a truly fair and iust society. We
request your support through the following legislative actions.
a. MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCING
Mandatory minimum sentences are punishments ordered by judges with +^F.. s set by Cengress to +h^�^
whe have been eenvieted 9f eFime; they dietate that certaiR GFirnes require, by law, a set ame--,.nt Af t*.rn.p in.
prosen.minimum incarceration terms set by the legislature. Mandatory minimum sentencing laws
effectively strip judges of their authority to take the circumstances of a crime into account and shift
pleading guilty in order to receive -A reduced sentence (Written Submi-s-sie.n ef the American Civil Liberties
lJnien on Rac*al Disparities in Sentencing, 2014). in theory, mandatory minimurn sentencing laws are "race
np-trAl" ;;nrl ;hA--Irl hp,; hppn PAnvir-terl Af a crime equally regardless of race. in
practice, however, thus us very much not the case. Judges are rnere likely te levy heavier sentences against
peeple ef eeleF in geneFal than they aFe against whites, while federal presecuters aFe eVeF twice as likely te
ehaFge black defe-Rdant-s ;.A.4h Afft-A-;es that eaFFy a mandateFy monom, -m th;;p White defendants (RepeFt te
t "^*tee Natiens en Racial DispaFities in the ".S. C�i;�lJust+se System 2018power to prosecutors,
allowing prosecutors to use the threat of bringing charges under these mandatory minimum sentences laws
to convince defendants to plead guilty in order to receive a reduced sentence.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support striking mandatory minimum sentencing provisions, allowing judges to apply the federal
sentencing guidelines with individualized reviews that take facts into consideration in determining
the appropriate sentence.
b. EXPAND THE EARNED INCOME AND CHILD TAX CREDITS
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC) are useful antipoverty measures that still
leave too many people out. In the case of the EITC, the beneficiaries are largely families with dependent
children. Childless adults generally find that their EITC is severely inadequate compared to families with
children; childless adults receive an aveFage ^f $2 ° up to $649 in EITC compared to adults with children
who can receive Sevt rp' *hp -rand m^r^ up to $8,046 depending on the number of qualifying children
(Williams, 2019- Internal Revenue Service, 2025). While the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) passed in
July of 2025 helped those with children, it did not improve benefits for childless adults. The result is that
591 Page
Page 1337 of 1459
over 5 million Americans are unable to escape poverty or are further impoverished. AS f^'the CTC
although it was increased by $1000 fer each child, thp- 2Q_1_7 tax law that changed pwc-'- Aed teRS e
....... _ ef v.oerking families getting the full increase (Marr, Huang, & Palacies, . Expanding the EITC
for childless adults would lift an estimated 5 million Americans out of poverty (Marr & Huang, Childless
Adults Are Lone Group Taxed Into Poverty, 2020). Ma4imngAs for the CTC fU l y Fefundab'^ u'^' have - °"*',~
effect` f^' ever 27 million, the OBBBA does little for families with low incomes because the phase -in rules
pre-OBBBA are still in place. These phase -in rules mean that even more children from. • i^^^^,^ fi;mili^r,
(Marr, Hingtgen, Arlec, Windham, & Cox, 2024—will be affected because their families don't earn enough
to qualify (Tax Policy Center, 2025).
For tax year 2021, the EITC has been was made more generous on a temporary basis. These changes should
be made permanent and expanded even further.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation to permanently expand the Earned Income Tax Credit and/or the Child Tax
Credit.
c. INCREASE THE FEDERAL MINIMUM WAGE
At $7.25 an hour, the federal minimum wage has not changed since 2009. Because it has not received any
adjustments since that time, the buying power of a minimum wage job has decreased drastically over the
years to the point where the federal minimum wage of $7.25 was worth 1027% less in 20142022 than it was
in 2009 and 40% less than in 1968 (Cooper, Raising the Minimum Wage to $ 2 by;0_;2Q NnI,,1141 Lift Wages for
_R5 MiI..*. r n. ^.riP_ar Ini,,.-kers 20 5) et al., 2022)
The current wage is not enough to support working families. An individual working 40 hours a week would
only make about $15,000 a year and -pub up tting them $11,299roughly $17,000 below the poverty threshold
for a family of four (Pev ty Guidelines, 2020) Raising theminimum wage uld loft . n Million . ple
Minimum Wage te $12 by 2020 Weuld Lift Wages fe- 35 5.401iffie-In A.Meirican N.A.1eirkers, .HHS.gov, 2025).
According to David Cooper (�92022) of the Economic Policy Institute, gradually raising the minimum wage
to $15 would increase the buying power of minimum wage jobs and would lead to greater wage equality
between low and middle wage workers •• ell as lift wages for 33.5 mill;^^ •verkef and bring tens of millions
of people out of poverty.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation to gradually raise the minimum wage to $4215 an hour or more.
d. LICENSE PEOPLE WHO LEARN TRADES WHILE IN PRISON
Inmates who learn trades in prison often have difficulty in finding employment when they leave, partially
because they have been prevented from getting the licenses, they need to work certain jobs. While inmates
may learn useful skills and receive training in prison programs, they are effectively banned from getting a
license when they leave. This has far-reaching ripple effects on other issues, such as housing, for ex -
offenders. If they are unable to attain steady employment, ex -offenders are much less likely to be able to
access housing services. In turn, this can lead to homelessness and a host of additional economic and
societal implications.
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Page 1338 of 1459
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that places restrictions on the use of criminal records to disqualify individuals
from receiving occupational licenses for jobs such as hairdressers, taxi drivers, trades learned in
prison, etc.
e. REAUTHORIZE THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT
in 2013, the Supreme GeuFt gutted Seetien _5 ef the kletiRg Rights Aet, whieh mandated that juFaSedietie.nS �AgmtI4
histe-Fie-S A-f diSGFiMiRateFy veteF suppFession pFaetiees be preeleaFed before they eewid pass Rew veting laws,
Rights Act were outdated, i.yoth JuStice Reberts net*Rg that "While any racial discriminatien iR veting us too
much, Cengress must en -sure that the legislation it passes te remedy that problem speaks tA- thp- P----rr
1W.A.fS -and marde it harr_1P_.r fer peeple te vete. By 2016, 17 states had passed some fAirirn. Af veting .
measures at thp- st-Atp- .1&.gP_I have only W nereased *n the y.gake ef false claurnS th�pt the 20-20- electien was rnarred
See BFeRnan Center fer justice
The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act of 2025 would be a strong deterrent to millions of
eligible voters in this country. Restrictions in that legislation include the requirement to show a valid ID in
order to vote, ending same -day registration, shortening early voting, and closing down polling places in
minority communities. According to the Center for Democracy and Civic Engagement, tens of millions of
Americans don't have a valid driver's license, have an expired license, or are unable to obtain a passport or
birth certificate because of financial burdens or other difficulties. This means these same Americans would
be barred from votine. These issues affect individuals across all oarty lines: however. th
natelv affect Black and Hisoanic Americans as well as other underrepresented communities.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support fegisla6eelegislative alternatives to aw,4_- -the Voting RightsSAVE Act, including legislation
to modernize the formula that determines which jurisdictions have shown patterns of
discriminatory voter -suppression practices, mandate that all voting changes must be announced in
public half -a -year before an election, expand the federal government's authority to send observers
to the polls, modernize voter registration with automatic, online, and same -day voter registration,
restore voting rights to the previously incarcerated after they complete their sentence, restrict the
ability to purge voters from the rolls, reform campaign finance transparency and
StFengtf}strengthen FEC oversight, reform redistricting with independent commissions, and
standardized criteria and transparency.
f Tl IT-lQ iASS! STANGEEQUAL OPPORTUNITY IN HIRING PRACTICES FOR€-F-OFFENDERS
students vVith drug convictie.ns I.A.4" find that they must complete a drug rehabilitation pregrarn or pass
randem drug tests in erd-eir tee reece-iffive frArn the Free Application fer Federal Swrlent Aid (FAFSA)
(Leenhardt, 2019). Beyond that, students vilq.A yVp.rp rAWV*rtPd of drug pessessien %vdl he ineligible for aid fe-F
an entire yearj an additional drug pessessien cenvictien -anether year of ineligibility, and ;; th-w-rd rfir-ug
pessession conviction permanently prevents thern frern receiving aid through PAPSA. Accerding te Betsy
W ndivwduals—es serving tirne for a drug charge. Another LIS millien people are on probation and parole fer
drug related offenses" (Pearl, 2019). Moreover, black people are more likely te be arrested, cenvicted, and
611 Page
Page 1339 of 1459
serve IORger s;P_.ntP_.nc_-P__,; than white peeple fer 5iMilaF eFiFnes. Marijuana pe55e55*en chaFge5 are particularly
preblematic, as black peeple are alMe5t eight times as likely te be -arrested peeple despite reughly
equal Usage rates. Remeving existing financial aid restrictiens en ..ndividuals with drug cenvictiens we,
make cell ,ge%ow-p-hip- f.,.- h-Un.dre do .,f thousands of p nl
Removing the checkbox that asks about criminal history from initial gob applications, commonly known as
"Ban the Box," aims to create fairer hiring practices and expand access to employment for people with prior
felony and misdemeanor convictions. By allowing employers to first assess an applicant's qualifications,
experience, and potential, these policies help ensure that individuals are not automatically disqualified
because of their past. Research shows that providing second -chance hiring opportunities supports
community safety and economic growth by reducing recidivism and increasing workforce participation
(NCSL, 2024). Studies have also found that applicants in cities with Ban the Box laws received higher
callback rates and fairer consideration in the hiring process MR, 2019). Ultimately, Ban the Box strengthens
communities, and helps employers tap into a wider pool of motivated, qualified talent.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that repeals provisions that prevent individuals with drug convictions from
receiving financial aid through FAFSA or, at a minimum, support legislation that allows a student
who is convicted of a drug offense involving marijuana possession, without the intent to distribute,
to resume or retain federal student aid eligibility while completing a drug rehabilitation program.
g FULLY I v CI N RECOGNIZE HOUSING CHOICE ` O GHER PROGRAM RASED ON ACTUAl
nI�VOUCHERS AS FORM OF INCOME
Ensuring safe, affordable housing is the most cost-effective strategy for reducing childhood poverty,
increasing economic mobility, and lifting people out of poverty. U.S. housing costs have been rising faster
than incomes for some time. According to the Out of Reach Report, affordable rent for a two -bedroom
apartment in Dubuque requires an hourly wage of $35.7517.87. Nearly one-third of all Dubuque
households are cost burdened, with 1 in 4 renters spending more than 50% of their income on housing
costs. Families of color, single mother households, the elderly, and people with disabilities are
disproportionately cost burdened. TheFe aFe appFeximately 5300faMil;,,.-yih., , „I,d Meet ineeme
0 of these eligible) aRel
0
compound matters, in 2023, only 32% of landlords in Dubuque accepted Housing
Vouchers as a source of income. This means that families that are eligible for vouchers may still struggle to
find affordable housing where their voucher is accepted.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that prohibits housing discrimination and requires housing providers to
recognize Housing Choice Vouchers as a legitimate form of income.
621 Page
Page 1340 of 1459
Dubuque
THE CITY OF
All•Amerira City
NAIR7NAl lM IlKAll:
DUB &E ' 11'
2007.2012.2013
Masterpiece on the Mississippi 2017*2019
2026 FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE
PRIORITIES
Page 1341 of 1459
Table of Contents
FEDERAL FOCUS 2022- 2032.........................................................................................................................3
GRANT OPPORTUNITIES...............................................................................................................................3
1. INFRASTRUCTURE: TRANSPORTATION GRANT PROGRAMS.....................................................................4
a. BUILDGRANT.........................................................................................................................................4
b. SAFE STREETS FOR ALL (SS4A) GRANT..................................................................................................6
c. DOT TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNITY & SYSTEM PRESERVATION GRANT PROGRAM BUILD
GRANT.7
2. INFRASTRUCTURE: SURFACE TRANSPORTATION......................................................................................8
a. BUILD GRANT FOR "IMPROVING THE NORTHWEST ARTERIAL/JOHN DEERE ROAD CORRIDOR FOR
FREIGHT MOBILITY"..................................................................................................................................8
b. EAST -WEST CORRIDOR CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS.............................................................................9
c. NORTHWEST ARTERIAL/HIGHWAY 20 INTERSECTION........................................................................12
d. SOUTHWEST ARTERIAL (US HIGHWAY 52) PEDESTRIAN / BIKE SHARED USE PATH ............................12
e. CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS: US HIGHWAY 20....................................................................................13
f. PUBLIC TRANSIT FUNDING..................................................................................................................13
3. INFRASTRUCTURE: AIR TRANSPORTATION.............................................................................................15
a. AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT AND ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE................................................................15
b. AVIATION WORKFORCE SHORTAGE...................................................................................................15
c. REPLACEMENT AND LIABILITY OF AQUEOUS FILM FORMING FOAM.................................................15
d. TSA AIRPORT WORKER SCREENING....................................................................................................15
e. CONTRACT TOWER PROGRAM...........................................................................................................16
4. INFRASTRUCTURE: PASSENGER RAIL......................................................................................................17
5. INFRASTRUCTURE: WATER.....................................................................................................................18
a. WASTEWATER & DRINKING WATER...................................................................................................18
6. INFRASTRUCTURE: BROADBAND & TELECOMMUICATIONS...................................................................19
a. COMMUNICATIONS............................................................................................................................19
b. BROADBAND DATA ACT......................................................................................................................24
7. INFRASTRUCTURE: PARKS AND RECREATIONAL AREAS..........................................................................25
a. LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND (LWCF) - OUTDOOR RECREATION LEGACY PARTNERSHIP
PROGRAM(ORLP)...................................................................................................................................25
8. CITY/COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES/PROTECTIVE SERVICES...............................................................26
a. COMBINED COMMUNICATION CENTER.............................................................................................26
b. CONTINUE SUPPORT FOR ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTER GRANTS.....................................................26
c. FIRE STATION CONSTRUCTION GRANTS.............................................................................................26
d. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS SERVICES PROGRAM.......................................27
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Page 1342 of 1459
9. HOUSING................................................................................................................................................28
a. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDING........................................................28
b. MOBILE HOME COMMUNITY PROTECTIONS......................................................................................28
c. AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS....................................................................................29
d. ANCHOR INSTITUTIONS......................................................................................................................29
e. HOMES FOR EVERY LOCAL PROTECTOR, EDUCATOR AND RESPONDER (HELPER) ACT OF 2023........29
10. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT..................................................................................................................31
a. EDA GRANT PROGRAMS.....................................................................................................................31
b. FEDERAL HISTORIC TAX CREDITS........................................................................................................31
c. NEW MARKET TAX CREDIT PROGRAM................................................................................................32
d. CHILDCARE..........................................................................................................................................32
e. EPA BROWNFIELDS PROGRAM...........................................................................................................33
f. ARTS & CULTURE.................................................................................................................................33
11. PUBLIC HEALTH.....................................................................................................................................37
a. PUBLIC HEALTH FUNDING...................................................................................................................37
b. LEAD POISONING PREVENTION..........................................................................................................37
c. LEAD IN DRINKING WATER..................................................................................................................38
d. ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE —SUPPORT INCREASED COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER, NATIONAL HEALTH
SERVICE CORPS, AND TEACHING HEALTH CENTER FUNDING.................................................................38
e. PROTECTING ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE PRESCRIPTION DRUGS..........................................................39
f. AUTHORIZE PERMANENT MEDICARE TELEHEALTH FLEXIBILITIES.......................................................39
g. IMPROVING MATERNAL CARE ACCESS AND OUTCOMES...................................................................40
12. PLANNING.............................................................................................................................................41
a. HOUSING & ZONING REFORM............................................................................................................41
b. CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROGRAM......................................................................................42
13. SUSTAINABLE & RESILIENT COMMUNITIES..........................................................................................43
14. INDIAN GAMING REGULATIONS...........................................................................................................45
15. HUMAN RIGHTS....................................................................................................................................46
a. MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCING...............................................................................................46
b. EXPAND THE EARNED INCOME AND CHILD TAX CREDITS..................................................................46
c. INCREASE THE FEDERAL MINIMUM WAGE.........................................................................................47
d. LICENSE PEOPLE WHO LEARN TRADES WHILE IN PRISON..................................................................47
e. REAUTHORIZE THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT............................................................................................47
f. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY IN HIRING PRACTICES FOR OFFENDERS...........................................................48
g. RECOGNIZE HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHERS AS FORM OF INCOME.....................................................48
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Page 1343 of 1459
FEDERAL FOCUS 2022- 2032
GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
Federal legislative goals for 2026 will focus on commercial air service, water infrastructure, transportation
infrastructure, economic development, safety, public health, and housing.
As funding for the city is reduced due to state policy, alternative revenue sources become even more
critical. Working strategically with the Mayor and City Council, City staff and our partners, we continue to
seek and secure grant funding for City priorities.
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Page 1344 of 1459
1. INFRASTRUCTURE: TRANSPORTATION GRANT PROGRAMS
a. BUILDGRANT
BETTER UTILIZING INVESTMENTS TO LEVERAGE DEVELOPMENT (BUILD) GRANT
The City of Dubuque has already benefited from this signature US Department of Transportation funding
program. A $5.7 million TIGER grant was received in 2010 to support the reconstruction of utilities and
complete streets in the Historic Millwork District. Additionally, Dubuque County in partnership with the
City received a $5.4 million BUILD grant in 2019 to support a series of roadway repairs, intersection capacity
and safety improvements, and a trail extension in the vicinity of the John Deere Dubuque Works facility.
The City applied for USDOT TIGER Discretionary Grants in both 2014 and 2017 however our application
requests were not selected. City staff were advised by grant review agency staff that our proposed
infrastructure project grant applications were strong, however the projects were not advanced far enough
in the planning, design, and environmental clearance development phases for selection consideration.
Subsequently, the City applied for a 2021 RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant which was unsuccessful. A
formal debrief with USDOT staff in March of 2022 identified ways in which the project, the narrative and
additional data could strengthen the application.
As a result, in an effort to be better positioned for future Federal Discretionary Grant opportunities, the City
again applied for a 2022 RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant to assist with the planning and design of a
multimodal transportation corridor project for proposed improvements to the Elm Street corridor, the 16th
Street corridor, and the proposed 14th Street Railroad Overpass bridge project.
The 2022 RAISE Planning Grant application proposed a project entitled "Building Bridges to Elevate
Employment (82E2)". Through the grant, the City of Dubuque requested $2,280,000 in USDOT RAISE
Planning funds to assist with the planning and design of a multimodal transportation corridors which will
connect low-income residents with economic opportunities and key community resources in the Kerper
Boulevard Industrial Park, on Chaplain Schmitt Island, in downtown Dubuque and its Historic Millwork
District, and on the west side of the city via the downtown Intermodal Transportation Center.
In August of 2022, the City was notified by the US Department of Transportation that the Building Bridges
to Elevate Employment (B2E2) application was selected to receive RAISE Planning Grant funding. The RAISE
grant funding is summarized in the following table:
Fund Description
Percentage
Fund Amount
RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant
52.1%
$ 2,280,000
Local Funds - City
47.9%
$ 2,100,000
Total Project Cost
100%
$ 4,380,000
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Page 1345 of 1459
BUILDING BRIDGES TO ELEVATE EMPLOYMENT(B2E2)
■ ■ RAISE Planning Grant
PLANNING AND DESIGN FOR MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION CORRIDOR
• 14TH STREET RAILROAD OVERPASS BRIDGE
16TH STREET CORRIDOR
ELM STREET CORRIDOR
KERPER BLVD. CORRIDOR
Fund Description
Percentage I
Fund Amount
RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant
52.1%
5 2,280,000
Local Funds -City
S 9,350,000
47.9%
Local Funds - DRA Contributian
$ 75010D0
Total Project Cost
IN%
$4.380,000
DUB E
The City completed the consultant selection process in accordance with the Iowa Department of
Transportation (Iowa DOT) federal aid consultant selection process. AECOM Technical Services, Inc. was
selected as the first -ranked Consultant and the City is through contract negotiations for Professional
Consultant Services to complete the Engineering Design and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) /
Environmental Study Phase to advance development for the B2E2 RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant
project.
On September 5, 2023, the City Council concurred with the Consultant Selection Committee's
recommendation in the selection of AECOM Technical Services, Inc. to complete the Engineering Design
and NEPA / Environmental Study Phase to advance development for the RAISE Infrastructure Planning
Grant for the project entitled "Building Bridges to Elevate Employment (132E2)". AECOM contract was
negotiated, and Iowa DOT/ FHWA external audit was approved on January 29, 2024.
City staff, AECOM, Iowa DOT and FHWA staff felt the best approach to develop a contract, scope of
services, and negotiated fee was to separate the design services into 2 phases: Phase I (Concept Design /
NEPA / Public Involvement / Preliminary Design), and a future Phase II (Final Design). Once Phase I
preliminary design and NEPA work elements are completed, City staff will have a more detailed and
comprehensive understanding of the scope of the services needed for the next Phase II (Final Design).
Through a future Supplemental Agreement, a scope of services and fee amount will be developed for Phase
II (Final Design) work.
On February 5, 2024, the City Council awarded the Professional Consultant Services Contract with AECOM
and Notice to Proceed was issued to complete the Phase I - Engineering Design and NEPA / Environmental
Study Phase.
On February 19, 2025, per Resolution NO. 46-24, the Mayor and City Council authorized the City to submit
an application to the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) for a RAISE Capital Infrastructure
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Page 1346 of 1459
Implementation Grant to assist with funding for proposed improvements to construct specific elements of
the Building Bridges to Elevate Employment (B2E2) Project.
On June 26, 2024, the City received an official award notice from the US Department of Transportation for
the RAISE Capital Grant in the amount of $25 Million for the B2E2 project. The total construction cost for
the initial phases of the B2E2 project is estimated to be $38.7 million. In addition to the $25 million RAISE
grant, Dubuque Metropolitan Area Transportations Study (DMATS) will contribute $9.2 million, the City will
contribute $3.6 million, and the Canadian Pacific Kansas City railroad will contribute $1 million.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal level for all the support in
the City receiving RAISE Planning Grant in the amount of $ 2,280,000, and the RAISE Capital Grant
in the amount of $25M. The City of Dubuque requests a categorical exclusion from any further
NEPA/Environmental Study to avoid unnecessary delays.
b. SAFE STREETS FOR ALL (SS4A) GRANT
In February 2023, the City, East Central Intergovernmental Association (ECIA), and our regional local
partners were notified of our awarded Safe Streets for All Grant. The 554A grant will assist with developing
a regional roadway network comprehensive safety action plan. Iowa State University Institute for
Transportation will lead the effort to development of a comprehensive safety action plan for the regional
roadway network to achieve the long-term objective of reducing transportation related injuries and
working towards zero deaths.
It is the objective of the City, ECIA, and partners to complete an Action Plan so that we have identified
potential roadway or intersection improvement projects which will be well positioned to compete for
future SS4A Implementation grant opportunities.
SAFE STREETS FOR ALL (SS4A) GRANT
■ ■ Comprehensive Safety Action Plan
ZERQ60AL
AWE SYSTEM IS HOW WE GET THERE
FUNDING SUPPORTS LOCAL INITIATIVES TO PREVENT DEATH
AND SERIOUS INJURY ON ROADS AND STREETS, COMMONLY REFERRED
TO AS "VISION ZERO" OR "TOWARD ZERO DEATHS" INITIATIVES
DEVELOPING A COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY ACTION PLAN (ACTION PLAN)
SUPPLEMENTAL PLANNING ACTIVITIES: CONDUCTING PLANNING,
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES FOR PROJECTS AND
STRATEGIES IDENTIFIED IN AN ACTION PLAN
Fund Description
Percentage
Fund Amount
Safe Streets For All (SS4A) Grant
80.0%
$ 200,000
Local Funds - City
12.7%
$ 32,000
Partner Funding - Other
7.2%
$ 18,000
Total Project Cost
100%
$ 250,000
m of IOWA STATE
D_jg JE ,Fun UNIVERSITY
AIW1,,P ie 1WMiuPP City+ASbury PEOSTA r:P •�• �
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Page 1347 of 1459
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal level for all the support in
the City receiving SS4A Grant in the amount of $200,000.
c. DOT TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNITY & SYSTEM PRESERVATION GRANT PROGRAM
BUILD GRANT
Last offered in FY2012, DOT's Transportation, Community & System Preservation (TCSP) grant program
provided $61 million in funding to plan and implement strategies to improve the efficiency of the
transportation system, reduce its environmental impacts, reduce the need for costly future public
infrastructure investments, ensure efficient access to jobs and services, boost smart growth development
patterns, and leverage private investment. As one of the few direct sources of federal transportation
funding available to local governments, the TCSP program should be reintroduced to help meet community
infrastructure needs. The City of Dubuque in 2012 received a $600,000 TCSP grant that helped in the
reconstruction of Elm Street from 911 to 11th Streets. This "Complete Street" is adjacent to the Jule
Intermodal Transportation Center. This street is a key part of the overall Historic Millwork District which has
leveraged this federal funding to help stimulate over $100 million in private redevelopment.
REQUESTED ACTION
Reestablish the DOT Transportation, Community & System Preservation grant program to $1 billion
annually.
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Page 1348 of 1459
2. INFRASTRUCTURE: SURFACE TRANSPORTATION
The Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act is a five-year transportation bill intended to improve
and expand the Nation's surface transportation infrastructure, including roads, bridges, transit systems and
rail transportation network. This legislation passed in December 2015 and provides direction for
transportation activities for five years.
The bill reforms and strengthens transportation programs, refocuses national priorities, provides long term
certainty and greater flexibility for states and local governments, streamlines project approval processes,
and maintains strong commitment to safety. Reauthorization of the transportation bill builds on and
strengthens the innovations begun in MAP-21 in areas such as performance -based planning, safety, design,
and freight planning. FAST Act supports policies which expand choices, bolster public health, and
strengthen communities.
An extension of the FAST Act passed in 2020 expired in October of 2021. A multi -year surface
transportation bill is needed to assure funding for future planning and construction of transportation
projects. Support is needed for the Transportation Alternatives Program including the Recreational Trails
Program and Safe Routes to Schools. Combined these programs provide for bike and pedestrian projects
and safety in our local community. The federal fuel tax was last raised in October of 1993 and is not indexed
to inflation, which increased by 77 percent from 1993 until 2020. A long-term fix is also needed for the
Highway Trust Fund.
The FAST Act expires in September of 2026. Federal surface transportation reauthorization takes place
every five years in Congress and is the process used to renew, fund, and update the programs that build
and maintain the nation's roads, bridges, transit, and multimodal networks.
Reauthorization is one of the most important tools Congress has to shape national transportation policy.
Typically passed every five to six years, these bills establish funding levels, define federal priorities, and
guide how transportation investments are made. These decisions influence which types of projects are
eligible, what outcomes are prioritized (such as safety, mobility, economic development, etc.), and how
regions access and manage federal dollars.
a. BUILD GRANT FOR "IMPROVING THE NORTHWEST ARTERIAL/JOHN DEERE ROAD
CORRIDOR FOR FREIGHT MOBILITY"
Dubuque County was awarded a federal BUILD Grant in the amount of $5,452,023 for "Improving the
Northwest Arterial/John Deere Road Corridor for Freight Mobility" and making capacity and safety
improvements to John Deere Road. The Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair Project was added to the
BUILD Grant project because it is a critical freight route that connects to South John Deere Road. The
Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair Project will also provide the non-federal local match to the
Dubuque County BUILD Grant.
The Northwest Arterial project was originally anticipated to be completed by the Iowa DOT, however as
part of the executed Transfer of Jurisdiction Agreement (TOJ), the City agreed to be the lead local agency
responsible for completing the Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair improvements.
Effective January 29, 2021, the TOJ of the Northwest Arterial was completed from the State of Iowa to the
City as part of the Southwest Arterial project. As part of the roadway transfer, the Iowa DOT has issued a
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state of good repair payment to the City in the amount of $5,672,000 to complete pavement rehabilitation
and reconstruction of the Northwest Arterial from U520 to Central Ave / IA3.
Due to the federal funds associated with the BUILD Grant, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is
the lead regulatory agency and responsible for administering the project in coordination with the Iowa
DOT. As a result of the Northwest Arterial being incorporated into the BUILD Grant, the FHWA required that
both the Dubuque County John Deere Road Project and the City's Northwest Arterial Project be "tied"
together through the Iowa DOT's Office of Contracts bid letting process. Additionally, since the BUILD Grant
was awarded to Dubuque County, this required the County to be the lead Contracting Authority for both
Projects.
Bids were received on the project by the Iowa Department of Transportation on April 19, 2022 in Ames.
Pirc-Tobin Construction, Inc., of Alburnett, IA submitted the low bid in the amount of $14,416,742.87 for
the overall project which includes the City Northwest Arterial Project and the County John Deere Build
Grant projects. A summary of the project cost breakdown is as follows:
BUILD Project Cost Summary
Total Bid
City - Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair Project
$ 8,674,734.82
Dubuque County -John Deere Road Build Project
6,395,401.42
TOTAL PROJECT COST
$ 15,070,136.24
Work on both the Dubuque County John Deere Road Project and the City's Northwest Arterial Project
began in June of 2022 and was completed in the fall of 2023.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal, state and local level for
supporting the BUILD Grant to allow for capacity and safety improvements to John Deere Road and
the Northwest Arterial freight corridors.
b. EAST -WEST CORRIDOR CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS
The US Highway 20 corridor is the primary east -west route in the City of Dubuque and future traffic volume
projections indicate US Highway 20 alone will not provide sufficient capacity for east -west travel in the City.
Capacity along alternate east -west corridors will need to be improved to provide connectivity between the
western growth areas and the downtown urban core.
In August 2017, the City Council listed the East-West Corridor Capacity Improvement Implementation as a
"Top -Priority" in its 2017-2019 Goals and Priorities and directed City staff to begin implementation plans for
the recommendations contained in the East-West Corridor Connectivity Report. The adopted East-West
Corridor Connectivity Study report acts as the City's Master Plan for both short-term and long-term capacity
improvements or corridor modifications to support growing east -west traffic flow in the City. The study
includes recommended improvements supporting complete streets concepts, multi -modal transportation,
vehicle, pedestrian, bicycle, and recreational improvements.
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In an effort to advance this top priority, the City has already completed the following improvements:
Project
Year
Cost
Property Acquisition
2016
$ 853,300
Grandview - Delhi Roundabout
2016
$ 827,000
Loras - Grandview Traffic Signals
2017
$ 370,300
University -Grandview Roundabout
2018
$1,200,000
Total Improvements To -Date
$3,250,300
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The section of University Avenue, from Pennsylvania Avenue to Loras Boulevard, referred to as the
"Overlap Section" was recommended for converting the three intersections along University Avenue to
roundabouts.
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In July 2018, the City applied for an $18.1 million U.S. Department of Transportation Better Utilizing
Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant request to assist in funding both multi -modal and
capacity improvements within the identified East-West Corridors. Staff was notified in December 2018 that
the City was not selected to receive a BUILD grant.
Following the BUILD grant announcement, the City has an opportunity to move forward and advance the
development of East-West Corridor Capacity Improvements utilizing the new Iowa DOT Federal Aid SWAP
Policy. Effective October 2018, the new Federal Aid SWAP Policy allows federal funds normally allocated to
cities or counties to be replaced with State of Iowa Primary Road funds on a dollar -for -dollar basis. The goal
of the new policy is to increase efficiencies and help local governments reduce the level federal oversight,
regulations, and requirements. Additionally, the use of Primary Road funds will be reimbursed at 100% of
eligible costs which eliminates the requirement for local governments to provide a 20% local match.
In January 2019, the City began the process to de -federalize the East-West Corridor project by paying back
the federal funds previously used for property acquisition. On August 19th, 2019, the City received the
FHWA final closure acceptance for the defederalization of funds related to the East - West Corridor project.
With the project defederalization is completed, in December 2020, the SWAP Funding Agreement was
executed with the Iowa DOT which will allow the City to utilize both local City funding and SWAP funding to
begin the preliminary engineering and environmental study phase for intersection capacity improvements
along the University Avenue, Loras Boulevard to Pennsylvania Avenue "Overlap Section".
In December of 2021, the Mayor and City Council approved the selection of HDR, Inc. of Omaha, Nebraska
as the Consultant to complete the Preliminary Engineering Design and Environmental Clearance Phase to
advance the development of East-West Corridor Capacity Improvements along University Avenue.
In March of 2022, with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) funding allocation to the State of
Iowa, the Iowa DOT announced the increase in new federal funds will require additional Primary Road
Funds (PRF) to be used as the State's local match, which will impact the Iowa DOT's ability to provide SWAP
funds for Local Public Agency (LPA) projects. With the reduced Federal -aid SWAP capacity, the Iowa DOT
has informed LPAs that all programs will transition from Federal -aid SWAP to Federal -aid starting in
February 2023 for Cities.
Since the East-West Corridor Capacity Improvements are a multi -year, multi -phased project, which
transitioned from Federal -aid SWAP (100%funding) to Federal -aid (809/o/20%funding), in March 2023, the
City was required to identify, and the Mayor and City Council approved as part of the Fiscal Year 2024-2028
adopted budget, the allocation of an additional $2.5 million as the City's 20% local match.
As a result of the funding shift to Federal Aid, this requires the environmental study phase to be elevated to
a Federal NEPA level clearance. Due to the additional level of work to meet the NEPA level regulatory
requirements, this added time required to complete the environmental clearance phase by 12 months and
added an additional cost to the Consultant design services contract. Once the preliminary engineering and
environmental (NEPA) clearance are completed over the next year, corridor impacts will be identified, and
property acquisition could begin. Subject to availability of local match funding, property acquisition could
take approximately 2 years to complete. Once property acquisition is completed within the Overlap Section,
and subject to availability of local match funding, construction to convert the three intersections along
University Avenue to roundabouts could begin and would take approximately 2-3 years to complete.
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REQUESTED ACTION
Support City of Dubuque BUILD grant application for East West Corridor improvements.
c. NORTHWEST ARTERIAL/HIGHWAY 20 INTERSECTION
The City of Dubuque supports the implementation of capacity improvements along the Highway 20 corridor
and the Northwest Arterial intersection. This intersection is experiencing operational challenges which will
only be compounded now that the Southwest Arterial/ US52 is completed, and commercial traffic is
rerouted from the downtown urban core. The recommended capacity improvements will allow traffic to
travel along Highway 20 more efficiently and safely, from the Northwest Arterial to the Southwest Arterial/
US52 interchange. The Iowa DOT has completed a capacity improvements study and has identified the
preferred roadway corridor and intersection improvement. The Iowa DOT is currently evaluating
alternatives for both funding and phasing the implementation of capacity improvements.
REQUESTED ACTION
Continue to support the Iowa DOT efforts to implement improvements along the Highway 20 corridor
and the Northwest Arterial intersection for safe and efficient travel to the Southwest Arterial/ US52
interchange.
d. SOUTHWEST ARTERIAL (US HIGHWAY 52) PEDESTRIAN / BIKE SHARED USE PATH
After nearly 30 plus years in the making, it is with great appreciation in celebrating the completion of the
Southwest Arterial / US Highway 52 project, which was opened to vehicular traffic on August 17, 2020.
The final cost projection for the fully completed 4-lane freeway is approximately $160 Million. This historic
milestone achievement would not have been possible without the strong collaborative partnerships with
the Iowa department of Transportation and Dubuque County.
Future Initiatives
As part of the 4-lane highway construction, grading was also completed for a future bike pedestrian shared
use path from US Highway 20 to US Highway 61/151. To accommodate the future trail - several of the
bridges along the corridor incorporated a separated shared use on the bridges. A future initiative will be to
pave the 6.1-mile bike pedestrian shared use path which will complete a connection between the Heritage
Trail and the Mines of Spain Recreational Area.
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REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal and state level for all the
support in making the Southwest Arterial, our #1 surface transportation project a reality and now is
seeking $6 million to fund paving the bike and pedestrian shared use trail that has been graded as
part of the project.
e. CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS: US HIGHWAY 20
Transportation infrastructure connectivity is essential to a vibrant economy and thriving community.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque supports completion of four -lane construction on Highway 20 to Chicago. To
accomplish this project and other significant highway and interstate capacity improvements, the
City supports efforts to identify a long term, sustainable revenue source that keeps the Highway
Trust Fund fully funded to be used for rebuilding and maintaining infrastructure.
f. PUBLIC TRANSIT FUNDING
The new infastructure BIL provides stable formula funding and competitive grant program to address bus
and bus facility needs. The BIL is greatly appreciated for increasing operational needs, but supply chain
issues are still causing a major delay in technology and equipmen leadtimes and cost increases.
The City of Dubuque has received a planning grant to analyze travel patterns in the community and
develop a replicable model for responding to travel demand through planning of transportation investment
that incorporates all modes - car, bus, bike and pedestrian. The goal of this research is to create a more
efficient and cost effective public transit system modeling tool for cities under 100,000 population.
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This research effort and integrated approach to addressing community travel needs will provide
opportunities to expand public transit service to our citizens. Without additional operating funding to
support current services and new operating grant opportunities to expand services, implementation of this
project could be limited.
Technical assistance for cities interested in undertaking bus rapid transit projects earlier in the planning
stages would also be appreciated. Currently, most planning must be complete and Small Starts funding
already secured for a city to be eligible for this type of assistance. Operational funding to support ongoing
route analysis and planning at the transit system level would be helpful as well.
Capital funding for vehicles and onboard technology replacement are needed. Many vehicles in Iowa, and
Dubuque specifically, are at or near the end of their useful life. Onboard technology provides essential data
for management and dispatch personnel as well as drivers and passengers, but to upgrade or replace this
technology fleet -wide is costly. Stagnant operational funding and limited capital funding opportunities
make developing responsive, cost-effective public transit opportunities difficult.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support increased funding for operational funds through the 5307 program and pursue additional
grant funding for bus replacement to include four new transit vehicles, specifically two smaller,
heavy duty, thirty-foot GILLIG buses and two mini buses.
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3. INFRASTRUCTURE: AIR TRANSPORTATION
a. AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT AND ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE
Modernize Small Community Air Service Development (SCASD) Essential Air Service (EAS) to meet today's
evolving small community and industry needs.
REQUESTED ACTION
Continue to appropriate funds for Air Service Development and Essential Air Service Programs
identified in FAA Reauthorization Act 2024 and include modification to programs that will help
restore and retain commercial air service in airports that lost all commercial service such as DBQ.
b. AVIATION WORKFORCE SHORTAGE
Congress must take immediate action to address the aviation workforce shortage through multiple programs
and initiatives. Aviation workforce shortages are creating a strain felt across the industry and is being felt
most by the smaller communities who are struggling to maintain their basic service, or have lost service
altogether.
REQUESTED ACTION
Appropriate funds toward Aviation Workforce identified in FAA Reauthorization Act 2024: Aviation
Workforce Development Programs, Airport Service Workforce Analysis
c. REPLACEMENT AND LIABILITY OF AQUEOUS FILM FORMING FOAM
Congress pass the following legislation related to airports past FAA mandated use of PFOS and PFAS in
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF).
REQUESTED ACTION
a. Appropriate the $350 million authorized by the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 towards a
PFAS Replacement Grant Program.
b. Pass Legislation that exempts airports from enforcement actions under the CERCLA or other
State and Local environmental laws related to the use of PFOA/PFAS.
d. TSA AIRPORT WORKER SCREENING
The need for Airport Worker Screening remains necessary in the ever -evolving homeland security
landscape.
REQUESTED ACTION
Require TSA to retain the roles the agency was created to execute following 9/11, instead of placing
that unfunded burden on Airport's. One of TSA's founding purposes was to provide consistent
security screening across the National Airspace System, and now critical security screening tasks are
being placed back into pre-9/11 processes and programs.
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e. CONTRACT TOWER PROGRAM
Safety and common-sense dictates continued funding of the ATC program and the contract tower program
or restoration of FAA staffing of these facilities. A United States Department of Transportation Office of
Inspector General Report Number AV-2013-009, issued on November 5, 2012, found that "a contract tower
cost, on average, about $1.5 million less to operate than a similar FAA tower." The report further stated,
"contract towers had a significantly lower number and rate of safety incidents compared to similar FAA
towers."
REQUESTED ACTION
We urge Congress to continue to fully fund the Contract Tower program
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4. INFRASTRUCTURE: PASSENGER RAIL
Local passenger rail advocates established a passenger rail citizen group, "Ride the Rail," to engage the
public, secure support and promote the return of passenger rail service between Chicago to Dubuque.
The City has been successful in partnership with DMATS and the local Ride the Rail citizen group in securing
state and local funding for the feasibility study of passenger rail return between Chicago and Dubuque.
Federal funding support for passenger rail projects provides the critical next step for the return of passenger
rail service between Chicago and Dubuque.
REQUESTED ACTION
Encourage Illinois Department of Transportation efforts to obtain federal funding for passenger rail
service from Chicago to Dubuque.
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5. INFRASTRUCTURE: WATER
a. WASTEWATER & DRINKING WATER
The nation's wastewater and drinking water infrastructure is experiencing an infrastructure need of $655
billion over the next twenty years. We congratulate Congress on the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure
Legislation (BIL) which includes $105 billion in water infrastructure funds.
The City of Dubuque has ongoing funding needs for drinking water and clean water infrastructure. The State
Revolving Loan (SRF) program has been very effective in helping the City address water infrastructure needs.
For every federal dollar of SRF spending, 21.4% is returned to the federal government in the form of taxes
and on average, 16.5 jobs are created for every 1 million spent through SRF; each job is estimated to bring
about $60,000 in labor income. Infrastructure investments create 16 percent more jobs than equivalent
spending on a payroll tax holiday, 40 percent more jobs than an across-the-board tax cut, and more than five
times as many jobs as temporary tax cuts.
Every million dollars of SRF spending results in $2.95 million of input in the U.S. economy. This is a smart
investment complimenting a narrow federal role of ensuring modern, efficient infrastructure. Since this is a
loan program, SRFs leverage resources from all levels of government and the private sector empowering
state and local governments. SRFs are voluntary, thereby reducing regulatory burdens on businesses.
Dubuque has utilized SRF funds for two major projects, the Bee Branch project and the Water and Resource
Recovery project. Dubuque is poised to now include lead service line replacement funds through SRF or other
federal infrastructure grant funds. The SRF funding source is critical to cities.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque supports the expansion of grant funds and SRF forgivable loans available through
the Bipartisan Infrastructure Legislation (BIL) for water infrastructure needs, particularly the city-
wide lead service line replacement program, the Catfish Creek sanitary sewer improvements, and
other priorities.
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6. INFRASTRUCTURE: BROADBAND & TELECOMMUICATIONS
a. COMMUNICATIONS
Asa member of the National League of Cities (NLC), the United States Conference of Mayors, and the National
Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA), the City of Dubuque joins these
organizations in acknowledging that the historic transformation of our communications infrastructure is
essential to the economic competitiveness of the local governments, states, and the nation.
Preserve local authority to manage public rights of way for the benefit of everyone.
Maintaining public right of way and ensuring shared use for the benefit of the public through partnerships
and cooperative agreements, not only monetary payments, but most importantly a maximum investment in
broadband and communications for the benefit of the community. This is a win -win for the community and
communications providers to get the needed services to residents and businesses in a timely and
economically competitive way.
Protect local authority to establish taxes that are consistent with local needs and maintain adequate
revenue.
Local governments recognize and support efforts to modernize the collection and administration of local
communications taxes, but in a manner that preserves the ability of local government to impose and collect
taxes to fund vital services for its citizens consistent with local values.
Protect and enhance local ability to provide for homeland and hometown security.
Local government's first responders need fully deployed E911, access to spectrum and funding for
interoperable communications to protect the public.
Recognize local roles in promoting nondiscriminatory access to the full range of communications services.
Municipalities are helping to bring advanced services to individuals and small businesses. Cities must have
the autonomy necessary to encourage competition and infrastructure deployment that will lower prices and
improve service quality for their citizens.
REQUESTED ACTION
• Do not nationalize cable and video franchising.
• Protect local governments' ability to facilitate or offer advanced communications services to
their citizens.
• Any changes to the collection and administration of communications taxes, including
extensions or modifications of the Internet Tax Freedom Act, must preserve local authority
to collect revenue consistent with local needs.
• Restore the FCC's Spectrum Auction Authority. The FCC is responsible for managing and
licensing the electromagnetic spectrum for commercial users and for non-commercial users
including state, county and local governments. This includes public safety, commercial and
non-commercial fixed and mobile wireless services, broadcast television and radio, satellite
and other services.
• Immediate necessity for Congress to reauthorize the FCC's authority to auction spectrum
licenses, which is vital for the U.S. to remain competitive in wireless and broadcast services.
• Development of a long-term strategic spectrum pipeline to meet future demand and
maintain U.S. leadership in technological innovation.
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Local Government Principles for Communications Policy Modernization
We believe that Congress and state and local governments can achieve these goals by embracing the
following principles:
• State and Local Authority
The City of Dubuque supports a balanced federalist approach that encourages new
innovation and technology while preserving appropriate authority for state and local
governments to protect their citizens — particularly in relation to public safety and
homeland security, promoting local competition, promoting economic development,
taxation, expansion of access to advanced networks, rights -of -way management, and
consumer protection.
• Public Safety
State and local public safety agencies rely heavily on communications services and systems
to protect public safety. In order for states and localities to carry out this mission, it is
essential that important obligations, such as 911 and CALEA, be applied to all relevant
communications platforms, regardless of technology. States and localities must also have
sufficient spectrum and funding to obtain interference -free, interoperable emergency
communications. In addition, it is important to preserve and strengthen the ability of state
and local government to protect and warn the public through emergency alert systems.
• Use of public property and right-of-way
State and local governments are the trustees of public property and must retain the power
to manage those assets for the benefit and safety of the community.
• Municipal Broadband
State and local governments can play an important role in making advanced services,
including broadband services, available to their citizens, based on specific local needs and
conditions. Federal policy should promote the rights of local governments that choose to
offer those services directly to their citizens.
• Video Franchising
The federal government should not preempt or restrict local authority to negotiate
mutually beneficial agreements and grant franchises to video providers. Public,
educational, and governmental channels are important tools citizens use to participate.
City of Dubuque Supports:
Legislation that preserves and extends municipal government authority to provide communications services
to their constituents.
Legislation that overturns the FCC cable franchise order and returns to the local franchising scheme set out
in the Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984.
The City of Dubuque opposes a wireless tax moratorium.
Ensuring expanded access to multichannel video programming is an important role of local government
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Ensuring fair access to digital resources by addressing inequalities of availability, affordability, and
accessibility of technology —specifically high-speed internet.
Net neutrality rules require that internet providers treat all internet traffic equally, outlawing practices like
traffic throttling or paying for content to be prioritized.
Expanded Access
States and localities support policies and programs that advance access to communications services and
ubiquitous broadband deployment in all areas of the country. Current initiatives that promote universal and
affordable access to communications services include the federal and state universal service funds, the
ERate program, Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP,) urban and rural infrastructure support
mechanisms, and obligations ensuring equitable cable and broadband deployment.
ACP
Galvanized by the pressure of COVID-19, a bipartisan Congress created the ACP with $14.2 billion in funding
in November 2021. The program provides eligible households a discount on Internet services of up to $30
per month —and up to $75 per month on qualifying Tribal lands. It also provides a one-time discount of up to
$100 towards a laptop, desktop, or tablet from participating providers.
Since then, the ACP has helped provide Internet to over 20.5 million American families and veterans. Thanks
to the ACP, low-income households can afford the access they need for work, education, healthcare, and
democratic engagement in the digital age. The data shows that we are making real progress on the affordable
access problem that has plagued the U.S. for over a generation. Broadband connectivity is essential to
maximizing educational opportunities, stimulating economic growth, lowering healthcare costs, investing in
a skilled workforce, and connecting individuals with their loved ones.
The ACP's funding has expired, relegating those Americans to second-class status again unless Congress
steps up to replenish the fund. In addition to availability and accessibility, ACP directly addresses the best
known factor contributing to the digital divide —price.
REQUESTED ACTION
Government leadership needs to ensure the ACP's continuation and appreciate the urgency. By
extending ACP funding, Congress can ensure the program continues to provide enduring
opportunities for all Americans.
Taxation
States and localities should retain full flexibility, as does the federal government, to structure their tax
policies in ways that best serves their citizens.
Consumer Protection
States and localities are best positioned to respond effectively to a wide variety of consumer concerns,
including but not limited to complaints related to service quality and affordability, reliability, deceptive
practices, billing practices, privacy, and criminal activity.
Wireless Zoning and Siting
It is essential for local communities to be able to address the expansion of wireless facilities to promote the
deployment of advanced communications while also protecting the interests of citizens in safety, sound
planning, and aesthetic concerns. Cellular carriers have petitioned the FCC to create new, onerous
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regulations that would make it more difficult for local governments to carry out their responsibilities in this
area. The Communications Act prohibits such FCC regulation. Congress should ensure that the balance
struck in federal law is not overturned by agency action.
In 2019 the City established a Small Cell Aesthetics guideline which outlined permit procedures, design
standards and location preferences. The goal is to encourage preferred locations, collocation, and
maintaining the unique community character and distinct aesthetics using "stealth" techniques and, for our
residents, providing advance notification of pending applications. Congress should support the City's efforts
in establishing and implementing such standards for the welfare of all.
Local government strongly endorses promoting competition for all consumers and treating like services
alike. The elected leaders of our nation's cities and counties stand ready and willing to welcome video
competition in their communities. Centralizing franchising at the federal or state level, however, limits the
benefits of head -to -head video competition to a chosen few, and deprives consumers of important
protections.
The FCC
Although the courts have upheld the transparency rule but vacated the no -blocking and no -unreasonable -
discrimination rules, there is no guarantee from the FCC of net neutrality. The new arrangement stands to
benefit large ISPs immensely while potentially harming small start-ups, entrepreneurs, and consumers
especially in locations where providers are limited.
Although there is a disclosure requirement and providers are prevented from engaging in unfair, deceptive,
and anticompetitive practices, issues will be handled after occurring and providers could bypass unfair
practices in the name of "reasonable, network management."
REQUESTED ACTION
1. States where statewide or state-controlled franchising is currently in place do not see greater or
faster video competition deployment than states where it is not.
2. Franchises do not just provide permission to offer video services. They are the core tools local
government uses to manage streets and sidewalks, provide for public safety, enhance
competition, and collect compensation for private use of public land. Eliminating local franchises
deprives local government of the power to perform basic functions.
3. Competition is for everyone. Current national policy implemented through franchises
encourages competition throughout the country, not just in urban or suburban areas and not
just for the wealthy. In less than ten years, under the current system, broadband service has been
made available to 91 percent of all homes passed by cable.
4. Neither Congress nor the FCC should try to manage local streets and sidewalks from Washington.
National franchising would abrogate a basic tenet of federalism by granting companies access to
locally owned property on federally defined terms.
5. Market factors, not local governments, control the pace of new broadband deployment.
Telephone companies have not yet seriously dedicated resources to negotiate franchises in many
markets. Potential video competitors require relatively few franchises to implement their
announced business plans (for AT&T 1,500-2,000 franchises, for Verizon 100-200 franchises).
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Tech Entrepreneurship and Competition.
States and localities benefit from, and support, competition and innovation and technology neutrality.
When a fully competitive market does not exist, states and localities must retain the authority to ensure
nondiscriminatory access to essential facilities, to prevent incumbents from using market power to stifle
competition and innovation, and to maintain consumer safeguards when market forces fail.
There are arguments for and against net neutrality. The City of Dubuque supports efforts for Internet to
remain a level playing field for all and the FCC to protect an "open internet." Given Dubuque's focus on
small business and innovation, Dubuque would likely be impacted by the anti -competitive risks that come
with ending net neutrality more than other Iowa communities.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City supports legislation that would restore net neutrality.
Broadband Acceleration Initiative
In 2016 the City of Dubuque launched its Broadband Acceleration Initiative. Operating primarily in
public/private collaborations, the Initiative has been a resounding success by increasing broadband access,
capacity, speeds, and competitors. Every business center has redundant high-speed access and a five-year
fiber -to -the -home build -out is underway. Recently the City has added a strong fair access component to
the initiative, beginning with free local Wi-Fi and low-cost access options in our lowest income census
tracks. Universal, affordable, high-speed access is the goal, and we are making progress. However, that
progress is hampered by outdated governmental data, policies, and funding priorities. We believe that the
following Federal Broadband Initiatives/Efforts are critical to the continued success of Dubuque's
Broadband Acceleration Initiative.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Continued efforts to produce Immediate and accurate revision of FCC broadband access maps.
It has been acknowledged by industry and both political parties that these maps, which underly
both federal policy and funding decisions on broadband, are outdated, use inaccurate
information and are subject to manipulation by incumbent carriers.
2. Until consensus mapping and data is available, uncouple federal broadband funding decisions
from the current FCC "targeted service area" calculations. As an example, when using ACS
census data, Dubuque shows several lower -income census tracts where 25% to 30% of
households reporting no consistent internet access. However, the "TSA" map by the FCC shows
no (zero) targeted service areas anywhere in the community of Dubuque.
3. Utilize a definition of "served" areas in the realm of broadband connectivity to include the
measures of affordability, availability and accessibility. The problems of available, affordable,
and accessible connectivity, in light of a growing number of devices, and capacity to deliver a
consistent, usable broadband technology in more densely populated areas are significant
factors contributing to the uneven digital access that exists among residents.
Provide flexibility for the USDA ReConnect Loan and Grant Fund and other broadband access programs to
allow rural and small urban areas (under 100,000 in population) to collaborate on broadband infrastructure
and costs. These areas are intimately connected via transportation networks, labor -sheds, power systems,
and the like. The ability to scale rural efforts via collaboration with small urban areas would accelerate
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broadband access to both. From a policy perspective, allow municipalities to treat broadband access as an
essential corporate purpose and dissuade state policymakers from creating state level barriers for
municipal action on broadband.
b. BROADBAND DATA ACT
The availability of accurate and readily accessible data, consistent collection methods across all
carriers/providers and data visualization tools provides a potential means of maintaining an open and fair
internet. By guaranteeing comprehensive, quality information on broadband access, bandwidth, and
speeds across all delivery methods, will result in an ability for cities to monitor services in our communities.
The outcome of this initiative is the ability to identify and respond to gaps in telecommunications access in
communities most needing broadband services.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support the FCC must collect and disseminate granular broadband service availability data
(broadband maps) from wired, fixed -wireless, satellite, and mobile broadband providers. To do this,
the FCC is required to establish the Broadband Serviceable Location Fabric (a dataset of geocoded
information for all broadband service locations, atop which broadband maps are overlaid) as the
vehicle for reporting broadband service availability data. Additionally, the FCC must put forth
specified requirements for service availability data collected from broadband providers, and it must
create a challenge process to enable the submission of independent data challenging the accuracy
of FCC broadband maps within reasonable windows of time.
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7. INFRASTRUCTURE: PARKS AND RECREATIONAL AREAS
a. LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND �(LWCF)I- OUTDOOR RECREATION LEGACY
PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM (ORLP)
Land and water conservation fund has been critical to the development of outdoor recreational
opportunities in Dubuque. Past grant awards have funded softball field development for youth and adults,
open space development in the area of historically significant places along the Mississippi River, and
expansion of the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center at the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area. Each of these
developments has been very important to expansion of outdoor recreation. Increased funding of this
program is critical to Dubuque as a partnering source for enhancing outdoor recreation for our citizens
which increases the health and well-being of the community.
The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program awards grants through LWCF supporting
development of new parks and renovating outdoor recreation infrastructure in underinvested urban
communities. Dubuque has leveraged this program twice for a two-phase redevelopment of Dubuque's
Comiskey Park. Phase 1 is complete and has been transformational to the neighborhood, and Phase 2 will
complete the project in 2026-27. It is a gamechanger. This funding is critical to the efforts where every
person, no matter your zip code, can access quality parks and green spaces.
REQUESTED ACTION
Pass the Outdoors for all Act which could codify the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership
Program into law. Increase the overall funding of LWCF and support Land and Water Conservation
Fund (LWCF) state assistance program receives 40% of LWCF funding as projects are more
expensive every year.
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Commented [GUI ]: maybe change the heading
on page 1 to reflect ORLP
Commented [JT2R1]: Great suggestion. Thank
you. I've updated the title within the table of
contents. Done.O
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8. CITY/COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES/PROTECTIVE SERVICES
a. COMBINED COMMUNICATION CENTER
The need for a combined 911 Communications Center and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has been
brought to the forefront of the public safety committee after multiple recent events. The current
communications center is undersized for the needs of our increased population and calls for service. The
center is unable to expand to meet the increasing demands of the emergency calls and for future
technologies. The recent disasters that occurred in Dubuque County and the State of Iowa brought the need
for a dedicated emergency operations center to the forefront. The city and county now use the classroom
areas of the Dubuque County Firefighters Training Center which is converted as needed to an EOC operation.
An extended flooding event along the Mississippi River or any other long-term disaster would tax the
resources of the city and county and the current set up would hamper our response to disasters. We are
experiencing more major weather events and disasters and we have received eight presidential disaster
declarations in the past 18 years. With the recent Pandemic, the Communications Center had to spit into two
rooms because there was not enough room for the dispatchers to be socially distant from one another due
to the small size of the Center. Several call takers had to be moved to another room which caused a slowdown
in response times due to not being in the same room. The City's 911 center needs to have room available for
expansion. A dedicated EOC will allow local government the ability to enhance response and recovery
operations following an event it would also assist us in preparing for planned events that overtax our
response capabilities.
REQUESTED ACTION
Assist the City of Dubuque and Dubuque County in identifying funding support for a combined 911
Center/EOC estimated to cost $16-$19 million dollars.
b. CONTINUE SUPPORT FOR ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTER GRANTS
In weighing opportunities for future expansion of fire units, the City must support vital federal programs
like the Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) grant program. This program can help the City as it seeks to expand
firefighter and paramedic numbers in the future.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support federal efforts to maintain and expand the Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) grant program,
including the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response program.
c. FIRE STATION CONSTRUCTION GRANTS
Fire Station Construction Grants Act authorizes $1 billion in fire station construction grants to be
administered by FEMA. Specifically, it directs FEMA to establish a grant program to modify, upgrade, and
construct fire and EMS department facilities. These grants can be used for:
• Building, rebuilding, or renovating fire and EMS department facilities;
• Upgrading existing facilities to install exhaust emission control systems;
• Installing backup power systems;
• Upgrading or replacing environmental control systems, such as HVAC systems;
• Removing or remediating mold;
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• Constructing or modifying living quarters for use by personnel; and
• Upgrading fire and EMS stations or building new stations to meet modern building codes and
standards as set by the National Fire Protection Association and International Code Council.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support all congressional efforts to introduce and pass the Fire Station Construction Grants Act to
provide funds to the City for the purpose of building new fire and EMS facilities.
d. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS SERVICES PROGRAM
The U.S. Department of Justice's (DOJ) Community Relations Services (CRS) office is the only federal agency
dedicated to working with community groups to resolve conflict and prevent hate crimes. DOJ CRS provides
facilitation, mediation, training, and consultation services to improve communities' abilities to problem solve
and build capacity. New resources are necessary to rebuild trust between local police departments and the
communities they serve. CRS could launch a mini -grant program (up to $20,000 per community) to support
facilitated discussions among police departments, civic groups and institutions, and residents, seeking to
foster community policing approaches and address barriers to trust across groups.
REQUESTED ACTION
Expand the DOJ's Community Relations Services program to $30 million annually.
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9. HOUSING
a. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDING
The City of Dubuque relies on CDBG money to fund many of its vital programs. Projects that are at least
partially funded by CDBG include rehabilitation of rental and owner -occupied housing, lead paint hazard
abatement, commercial and industrial building rehabilitation and economic development, childcare referral
services, credit repair programs, to support operations of several non -profits providing direct services to
income -eligible individuals and families, as part of the community development/neighborhood strategy
program. CDBG can be used to further weatherization efforts, and other initiatives proposed as separate
increases in the budget. Preparing additional rules and regulation for new programs, when the outcomes
can be met in existing programs causes duplicative administrative efforts and required funding for those
duplicated efforts. Focusing on programs that are established and produce stated outcomes will help
decrease the overall budget of the United States.
The CDBG formula funding has never been adjusted for inflation (since the inception of the program in
1974), even though construction costs, wages, and other program costs have escalated sharply in the past
four decades. Continued funding of CDBG is needed to provide the flexibility for communities to fund a
myriad of activities, fill gaps where needed, and attract additional resources to projects.
In the FY26 Senate Appropriations Bill, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) is funded at $3.1
billion (decreased from $3.3 billion, or 6%, in the prior year). CDBG resources create economic
opportunity, suitable living environments, and provide decent housing. Nearly half of the households in the
City of Dubuque are considered at or below moderate income by HUD's standards, meaning CDBG
resources impact a significant number of our local community members. We strongly encourage the
consideration to increase CDBG funding in FY 2026.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque asks our congressional members to support the U.S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development's Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) and urge you to
appropriate $3.3 billion in formula funding for the program in FY 2026. CDBG has been critical in
meeting the public improvement, public services, economic development, and affordable housing
needs in our community. The City of Dubuque also requests increased funding for the
administration of the federal Housing Choice Voucher Program.
b. MOBILE HOME COMMUNITY PROTECTIONS
Legislation related to mobile homes and mobile home communities was adopted at a time when mobile
homes were truly mobile. Today, mobile homes are more stationary than they have been
historically. However, the laws both in Iowa and other states have not been updated to reflect this
important and highly consequential change. Today, some companies are using current law to their financial
benefit and to the detriment of mobile home community residents. These predatory practices are putting
vulnerable citizens in financially precarious situations and sometimes in financial jeopardy. Mobile home
communities can be a viable choice in Iowa's efforts to create affordable housing opportunities across the
state. Therefore, review and reform of current law is vital.
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REQUESTED ACTION
Support Senate Appropriations proposed funding level of $10 million for competitive PRICE grants.
c. AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS
Homelessness is increasing across the nation due to increased untreated mental health issues, lack of
affordable housing, and inflation. Eviction rates in the City of Dubuque are increasing due to the lack of
ability to pay rent. Rents are increasing faster than the cost of living due to a low vacancy rate, which is
seen across the nation due to a shortage of housing units.
The significant changes proposed by the President's requested FY26 budget would consolidate many of the
funding streams under the Homelessness Assistance Grants into one ESG block grant, and would eliminate
Continuum of Care funding, which is necessary for permanent supportive housing and rapid rehousing by
some of our nation's most vulnerable populations.
REQUESTED ACTION
• Support a minimum of $4.5 billion for HUD's homeless assistance grants, including at least
$290 million for the Emergency Solutions Grant program. Reject the consolidation of grant
streams under HAG funding; support the Continuum of Care program at $4 billion.
• Support funding of the National Housing Trust Fund and support a direct allocation to local
governments once the funds reach $1 billion.
d. ANCHOR INSTITUTIONS
ANCHOR institutions, including hospitals and healthcare systems, colleges, universities, and cultural
institutions, are driving economic development, job creation, and private investments in the struggling
communities they serve. Over the past decade, a national ecosystem of professional associations,
foundations, networks, and consultants has evolved to develop and implement anchor institution -centered
approaches to produce targeted community benefits. With this national network of resources in place,
federal investment could play a key role in catalyzing and supporting the power of anchor institutions to
create vibrant communities. America's cities and towns call for the creation of a new Anchoring
Neighborhoods, Communities & Housing to Opportunities for Revitalization (ANCHOR) Institutions Initiative
at HUD that would provide $250,000 strategic planning grants to communities to boost economic
development and revitalization in neighborhoods through collaboration with key local anchors. These HUD
ANCHOR grants would support a local plan and/or pilot program that aligns shared interests and leverages
partners' respective strengths to promote improvement in key impact areas: affordable housing, ,
educational fair access, health and wellness, safe and accessible neighborhoods, healthy nutrition, and
workforce development.
REQUESTED ACTION
Create a HUD "ANCHOR Institutions Initiative" $25 million annually.
e. HOMES FOR EVERY LOCAL PROTECTOR, EDUCATOR AND RESPONDER (HELPER) ACT OF
2023
The HELPER Act (S. 1514 / H.R. 3170) seeks to amend the National Housing Act to create a tailored
mortgage insurance program for first responders and teachers. The HELPER Act aims to provide favorable
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mortgage terms and conditions for eligible first responders, including law enforcement officers, firefighters,
paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and teachers. By establishing a dedicated mortgage
insurance program, the bill eliminates the traditional mortgage down payment requirement and monthly
mortgage insurance premiums, which can be substantial barriers to homeownership.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support passage of the HELPER Act S. 978 / HR 2094
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10. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
a. EDA GRANT PROGRAMS
Over the past five years, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has dramatically expanded
its role in supporting local and regional economic resilience. Since 2019, EDA has invested more than $6
billion across 3,000+ projects nationwide, targeting communities facing economic distress, industry
disruptions, disasters, and recovery needs. These investments have helped create or retain over 550,000
jobs and have leveraged more than $67 billion in private investment, demonstrating EDA's ability to unlock
substantial non-federal capital for infrastructure, workforce, entrepreneurship, and innovation initiatives.
EDA funding remains highly competitive and consistently oversubscribed, even as communities face
increasing costs for job -creating infrastructure, industrial site readiness, technology adoption, and
workforce training. Recent federal emphasis on advanced manufacturing and innovation underscores EDA's
growing importance as a catalyst for local economic competitiveness.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City respectfully requests that Congress increase annual EDA appropriations and maintain
strong support for programs that fund industrial sites, workforce facilities, innovation
infrastructure, and community revitalization. Additional capacity in these programs would allow
cities like ours to compete more effectively for transformational projects and accelerate private -
sector investment that strengthens local economies.
b. FEDERAL HISTORIC TAX CREDITS
The Federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit is the nation's largest federal incentive promoting urban and rural
revitalization through private investment in reusing historic buildings. The credit encourages reinvestment
in downtowns, generates jobs, and is instrumental in preserving the historic places that give cities, towns,
and rural areas their unique character. For every one dollar invested through the Federal Historic
Preservation tax credit, five dollars are leveraged from the private sector. The credit is not paid until all the
restoration work is complete and approved by the US Department of Interior. Dubuque has seen total
improvements valued at $925million since 1985 in the downtown/Main Street.
The City of Dubuque strongly supports the continuation and expansion of the Federal Historic Tax Credit
(HTC), recognizing its transformative impact on revitalizing historic communities and driving economic
development. As a city deeply committed to preservation, we align with the advocacy efforts of the
National Trust Community Investment Corporation and the National Trust for Historic Preservation in
emphasizing the HTC's role as a vital tool for fostering public -private partnerships and enhancing the
unique character of our neighborhoods. Historic rehabilitation projects supported by the HTC have
catalyzed investment in Dubuque, creating jobs, attracting tourism, and maintaining the integrity of our
historic architecture. With the 119th Congress poised to address significant tax policy reforms, we urge
lawmakers to protect and improve the HTC, ensuring it remains a strong driver of community revitalization
nationwide. Dubuque stands ready to collaborate with national preservation organizations, the Historic Tax
Credit Coalition, and advocates nationwide to ensure robust congressional support for this critical
program.
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Of note: The Historic Tax Credit Coalition is working on a legislative proposal to eliminate the basis
reduction requirement for the Historic Tax Credit in its entirety. Experts estimate that making this change
would almost entirely make up for the lost value from the new requirement that the credit be taken over
five years.
REQUESTED ACTION
We urge you to support the HTC-GO and companion legislation, which will make redevelopment
projects more financially feasible and unlock substantial private investment that strengthens
Dubuque's historic districts and drives long-term economic growth.
c. NEW MARKET TAX CREDIT PROGRAM
The New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) program remains a valuable financing tool for major economic
development projects in Dubuque, including the Historic Millwork District and the Dubuque Pack site
redevelopment. With the program now permanently authorized under HR 1-2025, communities can plan
projects with greater long-term certainty. However, rural states and smaller communities continue to face
challenges accessing NMTC allocations at the same rate as larger metropolitan areas. Enhancing rural
access and encouraging more equitable allocation practices would strengthen Dubuque's ability to leverage
the program for transformational projects.
While the NMTC's flexibility is an advantage, its complexity still drives up legal, accounting, and Community
Development Entity (CDE) costs, which can significantly reduce the net equity available to a project.
Streamlining compliance and reducing transaction costs would improve the program's effectiveness —
particularly for smaller or mid -sized projects typical in rural regions —and ensure that more of the incentive
directly supports community revitalization.
REQUESTED ACTION
We ask our federal delegation to support reforms that increase access to NMTC allocations, reduce
transaction costs, and ensure that the program more effectively supports mid -sized community
redevelopment projects such as those underway in Dubuque.
d. CHILDCARE
Access to quality affordable childcare supports our economy by allowing parents to participate fully in the
workforce. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 70% of children under the age of 6 in the United
States have all available parents in the workforce, and 55% of children under the age of 5 participated in
regular weekly care arrangements prior to COVID-19. More recently, especially post -pandemic, a
substantial share of parents report no formal child-care arrangement at all. In a 2022-2023 survey, 35% of
parents with children under 5 said they had no childcare arrangement.
In general, today's childcare model is not sustainable for either the parent or the childcare provider — the
cost is too high for parents to afford compared to their wages, and simultaneously the wages for the
childcare providers are too low to attract and retain quality employees. Creating supports for both parents
and childcare providers bolsters our workforce and helps our employers retain employees with children.
COVID-19 has exacerbated this issue.
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REQUESTED ACTION
• Increase the allowable pretax contribution limit for employer -sponsored Dependent Care
Assistance Plans (DCAPs) so families have greater flexibility and financial capacity to keep pace
with rising childcare costs.. The current federal limit — $5,000 per household per year — has
not increased in decades and is far below the actual annual cost of childcare in most states
(often $10,000—$18,000 for infants).
Support legislation and increased federal appropriations —particularly through the Child Care
and Development Block Grant (CCDBG)—that raise wages and expand benefits for childcare
providers to stabilize and grow the childcare workforce.
e. EPA BROWNFIELDS PROGRAM
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Brownfields & Land Revitalization program — first established
in the mid-1990s and reauthorized under the Brownfields Utilization, Investment, and Local Development
(BUILD) Act — continues to serve as a bipartisan success. The program provides grants and technical
assistance to support environmental assessments, cleanup, reuse planning, job training and community
engagement to help transform closed factories, abandoned gas stations and other contaminated or under-
utilized properties into productive community assets. As of fiscal year 2025, the program has supported the
assessment of 41,871 properties, cleanup of 2,969 properties, and preparation of 175,385 acres for
anticipated reuse. According to EPA, these efforts have helped leverage approximately $44 billion in
combined public and private investment and supported about 226,567 jobs. In May 2025, EPA awarded
$267 million in Brownfields grants nationwide — the largest single round of funding to date — signaling a
major expansion in capacity. Nevertheless, demand still outpaces supply: many well -scored applications do
not receive full funding.
REQUESTED ACTION
Congress should permanently reauthorize the EPA Brownfields Program at or above the historical
authorized level ($250 million annually or more), and ensure that subsequent appropriations reflect
that authorization. Bolstered by recent infusion of funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,
long-term stable funding would support brownfields cleanup and reuse, spur economic recovery
and resiliency, and advance renewable energy deployment, greenspace creation, and equitable
redevelopment.
f. ARTS & CULTURE
Arts, culture, the creative economy, and related educational opportunities are powerful forces in our
nation's economy. The sector drives tourism and arts -related commerce supports American workers — from
graphic and software designers to scholars, architects, artists, performers, and curators - while inspiring our
communities in entrepreneurial efforts. Arts and culture institutions and programs allow Americans to
dream of fresh possibilities and to expand their horizons as thinkers and citizens in a world of complex ideas
and technologies, as well as to contribute to the cultural legacy of the nation. Access to creativity, the arts,
and cultural expression is an inherent good; it also can awaken the potential for a better quality of life and
advances efforts to preserve and give voice to diverse cultures. Engagement with the arts and cultural
experiences allows Americans to fully realize their creative and imaginative potential rooted in cultural
heritage as individuals and as communities. This area of legislative consideration also includes funding and
support for nationwide humanities work through federal organizations such as the National Endowment for
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the Humanities (NEH) which supports the research, education, preservation, and public programs in the
humanities.
• In 2023, the arts, culture, and creative economy generated over $1.2 trillion in economic
activity, representing 4.2% of the GDP. -In 2024, non-profit arts and culture organizations and
their audiences generated $151.7 billion in economic activity which leveraged an additional
$78.4 billion in event -related expenditures by their audiences.
• The United States has exported more arts and cultural goods and services than it imported
since 2006, including during the Great Recession. The US arts and culture trade surplus
increased from $21.5 billion to $36.8 billion between 2022 and 2023.
• The arts and culture sector supported 5.4 million jobs in 2023. In 2022 arts and culture
provided $101 billion in personal income to residents and generated $29.1 billion in tax
revenue to local, state, and federal governments.
• The NEH budget serves as a significant leveraging tool that has helped create an entire industry
of locally based small business and jobs that cannot be outsourced. The NEH estimates that its
2025 investment in grantees will include $9.55 million in support of projects in the humanities.
• The National Endowment for the Arts awarded funds to 1,474 organizations totaling
$36.79million to support the arts in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington DC. A significant
percentage of NEA grants go to those who have fewer opportunities to participate in the arts.
34% of Arts Endowment grants take place in high -poverty neighborhoods, reaching low-income
audiences of underserved populations. The majority of grants go to small and medium sized
organizations (with operating budgets of less than $2million).
The Dubuque City Council prioritizes arts and culture, identifying access to diverse arts and culture
experiences for all as one of eight 2037 goals. In 2015, the Arts & Culture Master Plan was commissioned
and funded, with the resulting plan adopted in 2016. Since 2005, the City has provided over $5.04 million
dollars in financial support to Dubuque arts and cultural organizations through direct grant programs that
support operations and new projects and a rotating public art program. According to a 2022 Arts &
Economic Impact Study conducted by Americans for the Arts, Dubuque's non-profit arts and culture sector
in Dubuque generates $ 70.4 million in annual economic activity, supports 1,527 FTE jobs, generates $6.7
million in local and state tax revenues, and infuses $41.6 million in household incomes to local residents.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Support the administration's FY26 budget request of $209. million for the National Endowment
for the Arts (NEA).
2. Support the administration's FY26 budget request of $209 million for the National Endowment
for the Humanities (NEH).
3. Support the administration's FY26 budget request of $294.8 million for the Institute of Museum
and Library Sciences (IMLS) within the Labor, Health and Education appropriations bill.
4. Support continued investment in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESSA) and its
Assistance for Arts Education (AAE) program.
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5. Continue funding the FY24 $2.2 billion Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants
provisions of ESSA under Title IV, Part A, as well as to make explicit the opportunity for the arts
to help achieve the equitable access objectives of Title I and the professional development
opportunities for arts educators under Title II.
6. Support the Artist -Museum Partnership Act (H.R.1793) which would allow artists to take
income tax deductions for the fair market value of their work when they donate it to charitable
collecting institutions and enact 5.618/H.R. 1704 and pass the Legacy IRA Act (5.243) to expand
and strengthen charitable giving to the nonprofit arts sector.
7. Support inclusion and investment in arts in health programs such as the National Initiative for
Arts and Health Across the Military led by Americans for the Arts.
8. Support the collection of federal creative economy legislation under consideration. Through
public policy, these seven bills can collectively achieve a stronger creative sector, which would
drive economic growth and social cohesion, ensuring a better and more creative life for all:
a. CREATIVE: Bill number: H.R. 2485, sponsored by Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici
(OR-01) -- The Arts Education for All Act supports and encourages arts education and
programming for youth and adults in early learning centers, K-12 schools, and juvenile
justice facilities by clarifying that certain federal programs may support arts education,
and requiring states to make a plan to increase access to ats education programs in K-
12 schools and juvenile justice facilities..
b. PLACE: Bill numbers: HR 6569 / 5.3560, sponsored: Sen. Edward Markey (D-MA),
Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR)- The Promoting
Local Arts and Creative Economy Workforce Act (PLACE Act) bolsters local creative
economies and workers in creative industries. It amends existing legislation to include
the arts, creates new creative economy grants, and directs funding for creative
businesses.
c. CREATE: Bill numbers: HR 6381 / 5.3759 , sponsors: Sen. Brian Schatz (D-HI) John
Cornyn (R-TX) Comprehensive Resources for Entrepreneurs in the Arts to Transform the
Economy Act (CREATE Act) aligns policy to serve those that make our creative economy
prosper. It expands SBA and EDA loan programs and integrates creative work into
support programs.
d. PATPA: Bill numbers: HR 721 / S. 1121, sponsors:. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) , Jeanne
Shaheen (D-NH)-- The Performing Arts Tax Parity Act (PATPA), a bi-partisan bill in both
the House and the Senate, updates the Qualified Performing Artist tax deduction,
modernizing a provision that has been on the books since it was signed into law in the
1980's so that middle-class arts workers can deduct common business expenses.
9. Support legislation to invest in the country's creative economy and promote economic
inclusion; to recognize artists, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit arts organizations as contributors
to the small business community; improve and revitalize rural, remote, and underserved areas;
and support the creative economy through federal programs and actions. Direct the SBA and
other agencies to ensure existing economic development programs and tools encompass the
creative economy; ensure inclusion of creative fields in vocational education and training
supports; increase comprehensive measurement of the impact of the creative economy on the
overall US economy.
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10. Support legislation and programs that improve the health and well-being of the military and
veterans' populations through the arts.
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IIMall :11NlaW_101:1
a. PUBLIC HEALTH FUNDING
For over 20 years, local public health agencies have been creating, refining, updating, and utilizing their
Public Health Emergency Preparedness Response Plans (PHEPRP.) Before and soon after the 9/11 attacks,
local public health followed the national initiative of preparing for biological, chemical, radiological,
weather, and other public health related disasters and emergencies. Simultaneously, we experienced more
and more newly emerging infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS, resistant TB, MRSA, West Nile, Ebola,
Zika, Cyclospora, E. coli 0157:H7, SARS, MERS, H1N1 influenza, Toxic Shock Syndrome and COVID-19. These
along with re-emerging outbreaks of diseases we thought we had conquered such as mumps, measles and
whooping cough continue to persist along with outbreaks from new sources or ways of spread from
pathogens such as crypto sporidia, giardia, salmonella, shigella, and Hantavirus. Congress responded to
most of these with limited term, disease specific and preparedness planning funding to states, who in turn
funded local health departments and public health agencies through grant processes. As the outbreaks
subsided and healthcare learned to treat the infectious diseases the funding was reallocated to other
priorities or cut entirely. This reactionary, short-term public health funding does not create a system or
public health agencies are ready to respond to epidemics and pandemics and weather -related emergencies
etc. in a timely and effective manner.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Public health requires ongoing funding, education, and resources to prepare for and respond to
public health emergencies, including those that happen at the state, local, federal and world
levels. A robust national disease data collection and analysis system is needed to prepare for
future, outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics.
2. ARPA and CARES money is one-time and specifically for COVID relief. Local public health
agencies (LPHAs) need dedicated, reliable, and flexible funding to deliver on their community
Health Needs Assessments and Health Improvement Plans (CHNA/HIPs) and address the "social
morbidities" of COVID that will be seen for years if not generations to come.
3. Strengthen the Public Health Workforce through increased funding for state and local public
health infrastructure. Specifically, by supporting incentives to diversify the public health
workforce and increase public health and healthcare training and loan forgiveness programs
4. Support the creation of a $4.5 billion mandatory fund for core public health infrastructure
activities at the CDC and state, local, tribal and territorial public health departments. The Public
Health Infrastructure Saves Lives Act would establish this funding to support essential activities
such as: disease surveillance, epidemiology, laboratory capacity, all -hazards preparedness and
response; policy development and support; communications; community partnership
development; and organizational competencies. A reliable, long-term funding stream for these
activities is essential for anticipating and responding to future public health emergencies like
the COVID-19 pandemic.
b. LEAD POISONING PREVENTION
In 2025, significant cuts were enacted for the CDC's Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP),
including eliminating most of the program's staff and potentially cutting its $51 million annual funding,
which halted state assistance for surveillance, testing, and prevention efforts for lead exposure in children,
creating major concerns for local health departments. The City of Dubuque receives some of this funding
from Iowa Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct lead poisoning prevention and case management
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of lead poisoned children activities. Local health departments rely on the states' ability to compile, track
and analyze data, providing epidemiology expertise on a state and local level.
REQUESTED ACTION
Restore CDC Lead Poisoning Prevention Funding in the National Center for Environmental Health to
continue funds to states, keep CDC health tracking programs, and restore lead poisoning expertise
at the CDC.
c. LEAD IN DRINKING WATER
The EPA's new Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) rule mandates that all states develop plans to
replace all lead service lines within a decade, with some flexibility for states with extensive infrastructure.
Federal funding is crucial for municipalities to comply with these regulations. Additional costs for Lead
Service Line Replacement (LSLR) under the EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) stem from the
mandated full replacement (utility & private side), potentially increasing average costs to $10,000-$14,000
per line, plus expenses for sampling, inventory, corrosion control, filters, and public education, totaling
billions annually, though federal funds (BIL) and utility strategies aim to offset homeowner burdens and find
efficiencies.
REQUESTED ACTION
Provide adequate funding to states and local municipalities to remove and replace lead service
lines.
d. ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE —SUPPORT INCREASED COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER,
NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE CORPS, AND TEACHING HEALTH CENTER FUNDING
Community Health Centers (CHCs) across the country have consistently demonstrated the value of the care
they provide. Community Health Centers are an affordable and accessible source of primary and preventive
health care for over 52 million underserved individuals nationwide, including 253,000 here in Iowa. In 2025,
Crescent served well over 12,000 patients for medical, dental and behavioral health care, with the total
showing no signs of decreasing. CHC's provide targeted investments to boost services and enhance the
primary care workforce.
One of the largest factors limiting a Community Health Center's ability to provide patients quality care is
recruiting and retaining quality providers. Long-term and Support Iowa community health center's
workforce to address shortages throughout the state, including investments in recruitment and retention
strategies, training, and loan repayment with a focus on dentists, dental assistants, medical assistants,
nurses, hygienists, and other support staff.
The National Health Services Corps (NHSC) loan repayment and scholar programs are essential recruitment
tools for CHC's and must be sustained. In Iowa, more than 50 providers working in CHCs are current
recipients of NHSC support or have completed their obligations and chose to continue practicing at CHCs.
Additionally, the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) program trains the future
safety net workforce by directly embedding residents within CHCs. CHCs need approximately $20.65 billion
annually in CHC and primary care workforce funding to meet patient demand and continue delivering high -
quality, affordable care.
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REQUESTED ACTION
We urge leaders in both chambers to work together to pass critical, multi -year extension for CHC
mandatory funding at the maximal funding level. We also urge passage of an appropriations
package that protects Community Health Center funding.
Federal grant funding for the Health Center program needs reauthorization. Requested funding
levels include:
• At least $5.8 billion annually for CHCs for two years
• $950 million annually for the National Health Service Corps (NHSC)
• $2.1 billion over five years for the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education
(THCGME) program I
e. PROTECTING ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE PRESCRIPTION DRUGS
The 340B Drug Pricing Program is an essential source of support for Community Health Centers, allowing
them to stretch increasingly scarce federal resources and reinvest in patient care. The program allows CHCs
to purchase outpatient drugs at significantly reduced costs. CHCs then use resources from the program to
expand healthcare services, help patients access affordable prescription drugs, and improve health
outcomes. The 340E program is not funded by taxpayers, and in Iowa, resources generated from Medicaid
patients directly impact the state's budget as Iowa Medicaid retains resources from these patients.
Protecting the 340B Program ensures patients have access to affordable, often life-saving prescription
drugs and CHCs can reinvest resources from the program back into access. As one of the few programs that
is proven to help patients access affordable prescription drugs, we need to safeguard the original intent of
340B.
REQUESTED ACTION
Protect access to the 340B Program to sustain community health centers' essential model of care,
lower prescription drug costs for patients, and improve health outcomes.
Expanding Access to Comprehensive Care- behavioral health and dental services.
All Iowa CHCs currently have waiting lists for behavioral health and/or dental services. Investing in
CHC infrastructure will expand access in Iowa, particularly in rural areas or where access to
healthcare is particularly dire. These investments would support expansion of services and physical
locations, improvements to technology, and allowing CHC remain viable employers and producers
of economic activity in their communities. Investing in this model will reduce healthcare costs, keep
patients from accessing more costly care such as emergency rooms, and generate economic growth
through expanded job opportunities, construction, etc.
REQUESTED ACTION
Appropriate funds for capital expenditures to support community health center infrastructure to
expand access to care.
f. AUTHORIZE PERMANENT MEDICARE TELEHEALTH FLEXIBILITIES
Telehealth services help address geographic, economic, transportation, and linguistic barriers to healthcare
access while boosting staff retention and decreasing no-shows and missed appointments. Because CHCs are
required to offer comprehensive services in areas of high need, including sparsely populated rural areas,
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CHCs are pioneering the use of telehealth to expand access to quality healthcare services, especially
behavioral health services, to their over 31 million patients.
REQUESTED ACTION
Congressional action is needed to extend pandemic telehealth flexibilities to allow CRCs to bill
Medicare for telehealth as a distant site and for audio -only under the PPS rate.
g. IMPROVING MATERNAL CARE ACCESS AND OUTCOMES
Access to quality care is vital both during pregnancy and beyond, providing a foundation for optimal health
for years to come. In 2023, more than 400,000 babies were born in counties with limited or no access to
maternity care. Additionally, healthcare costs related to pregnancy are often very expensive, creating
another barrier to maternity care for many women.
H.R. 9049, introduced by Rep. Zach Nunn, would provide grants to states to assist with coordinated
maternity care through maternal health homes for pregnant women on Medicaid, including community
health centers. Research shows increased access to and utilization of maternity care can reduce instances
of pregnancy -related complications, leading to better health outcomes and lower costs to the healthcare
system overall.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that aims to improve access to maternity care and improve outcomes.
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12. PLANNING
a. HOUSING & ZONING REFORM
Communities across the nation are confronting the urgent challenges of housing supply shortages and
outdated zoning regulations. With a national housing deficit of at least 3.9 million homes, federal
leadership is essential to help localities expand housing options and choices that meet the diverse needs of
residents. Planners urge Congress and the Administration to champion policies that strengthen local
planning capacity, incentivize housing supply solutions, and modernize zoning frameworks to support
attainable, equitable, and abundant housing for all.
Economic pressures —including high interest rates, inflation, workforce challenges, and limited housing
inventory —underscore the need for immediate federal partnership in advancing locally driven reforms. By
aligning federal programs and resources with community -led planning and zoning initiatives, Congress can
help unlock development potential, improve economic mobility, and ensure that local governments have
the tools necessary to address housing affordability and availability. Locally led zoning reform, supported by
strategic federal engagement, is key to building resilient, inclusive, and economically vibrant communities
nationwide.
REQUESTED ACTION
• Provide funding for the Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing (PRO Housing) program
• Fund and finance adaptive reuse housing projects
• Modernize and expand the Low -Income Housing Tax Credit program
• Renew Opportunity Zones with an improved housing focus
• Fund vital federal housing tools, such as Community Development Block Grants, HOME, Choice
Neighborhoods, vouchers, rural housing, and homelessness assistance.
• Improve federal housing finance programs for "missing middle," multifamily, and mixed -use
housing
New funding and fiscal tools are important, but ultimately insufficient to meet the moment and support
critical reforms alone. Congress should also act to provide policy research, models, and data; remove
outdated and unnecessary regulatory barriers; support key code reforms; and align housing supply and
planning with federal infrastructure, economic development, and energy initiatives. Needed policy actions
include:
• Direct HUD, in coordination with DOT and other federal agencies, to expand efforts to provide
frameworks, models, and analysis for local zoning, building code, and land use reforms
• Create new models for modular housing and remove outdated definitions that limit
manufactured and modular housing
• Streamline environmental reviews for targeted housing projects and support state and local
building code reforms
• Ensure policies in key existing housing and infrastructure programs meet today's needs and
support a comprehensive approach to community growth and development
• Incorporate pro -housing policies and local reforms into transportation, infrastructure, and
environmental programs
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b. CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROGRAM
The Certified Local Government (CLG) program was established as part of the National Historic Preservation
Act of 1966 to create federal, state, and local governmental partnerships, provide historic preservation
training and technical assistance, and encourage preservation and wise use of historic resources at the local
level.
In Iowa, the Certified Local Government program is one of the historic preservation offerings of the State
Historic Preservation Office, part of the State Historical Society of Iowa, a division of the Iowa Department
of Cultural Affairs. To participate in the CLG program, a local government must have a local historic
preservation program that complies with CLG program requirements. To qualify for or obtain "certified
status", the local government must demonstrate that its local historic preservation program meets certain
standards.
For the local government, its staff and Historic Preservation Commission, there are some direct benefits of
participating in the CLG program. There is free historic preservation training and technical assistance from
the State's historic preservation staff. Participating cities and counties receive a start-up preservation
reference library for use in developing and administering the program. Cities and counties in the CLG
program qualify for a small, competitive, matching CLG grant program that is open only CLG program
participants. These federal pass -through grants can be used to underwrite all historic preservation activities
except rehabilitation.
In Iowa, the CLG program has helped cities and counties to develop their local historic preservation
programs as a tool to help promote downtown revitalization; to protect, stabilize and revive historic
neighborhoods; and to provide an authentic foundation for heritage tourism.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque supports continued federal funding for the Certified Local Government (CLG)
Program.
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13. SUSTAINABLE & RESILIENT COMMUNITIES
The City of Dubuque identified becoming a more sustainable city as one of its top priorities in 2006. Since
then, multiple strategies and practices have been implemented to make Dubuque a more sustainable
community. In 2016, the City was honored to be recognized as one of the White House's 16 Climate Action
Champions. The City is a member of Climate Communities, ICLEI and the Urban Sustainability Directors
Network and joins those organizations in supporting local government action on climate change and
resiliency as essential for America to achieve energy independence, renew economic prosperity and
preserve biodiversity. We are in the middle of an environmental crisis that most acutely impacts those who
are already marginalized and vulnerable. Federal policies must empower local governments with the tools
and resources to respond to climate and social challenges. We request your support in achieving the
following goals:
• Invest in local climate capacity through annual federal appropriations such as the Storm water
and Drinking Water funding and Green Infrastructure programs.
• Build self-reliant communities that are prepared for climate impacts.
• Support community revitalization by enacting legislation that enables basic sustainability
principles, such as historic preservation, improved energy efficiency, brownfield redevelopment,
and community redevelopment.
Local governments rely on the federal government to regulate in sectors where municipalities cannot. This
is especially true for environmental regulation, and we advocate for robust federal environmental
protections to bolster local governments' climate efforts.
Inflation Reduction Act
Maintain the Inflation Reduction Act and the funding made available to local governments to pay for clean
energy, electric vehicles and green building projects; as well as funding for businesses, residents and non-
profits. Specifically maintain tax credits and elective pay provisions and continue the home energy
efficiency and electrification rebates.
Weatherization Assistance Program
Dubuque, like communities across the country, is striving to increase equitable access to affordable housing
for all residents. Excessive energy costs exacerbate the housing cost burden low-income residents
experience. On average, low-income households spend 7.8 percent of annual income on energy services,
compared to 3 percent of income for all households. Recognizing the increasing cost of energy and the
significant impact this required cost has on low- and moderate -income residents, the City advocates for
continued sufficient funding of the Weatherization Assistance Program and that funds be used to invest in
home improvements wherever possible. By investing in improvements rather than assisting with energy
bills, these funds can be used to fix the root of the problem rather than putting a band -aid on it.
National Energy Planning Policy
The City encourages adoption of a long-term, sustainable national energy policy, addressing decreasing
availability of petroleum, energy self-sufficiency, economic competitiveness, greenhouse gas emissions,
environmental protection, and social equity. This policy should recognize and separate the long-term
development of replacement and alternative energy sources from short-term fluctuations in market prices
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for energy. This policy should also recognize the impact that energy -efficient land use patterns, building
design, and transportation modalities have on the demand for energy.
Data and Measurement)
The City recognizes the importance of easy, consistent, and affordable access to energy data at the
community level as an integral component of energy, sustainability, healthy communities, and community
planning. We advocate for transparent data processes that allow communities to review utility data while
also ensuring adequate data security and privacy.
PACE Financing
We encourage federal and state legislation supporting Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing so
that the costs associated with energy efficiency improvements can be shared by the property owners who
experience the benefits of those improvements.
Environmental Justice
We support state and federal efforts in striving to attain environmental equity and justice with regard to
the siting of energy facilities, resource extraction, energy generation, distribution infrastructure, and
energy -related waste disposal.
Distributed Energy Generation
The City supports distributed energy generation systems that utilize community energy generation and
"smart grid" public infrastructure that supports both conservation and energy efficiency.
Smart Grid Technology
We support modernization of the nation's electrical grid that will allow for the efficient integration of
innovative technologies such as renewable energy systems and electric vehicles and makes it possible to
offer dynamic electricity pricing options that can reduce strain on the grid while benefitting consumers.
Advances in metering technology also create opportunities to provide consumers with access to more
information about their electricity usage and costs, which can inform their decisions about energy
consumption.
Research and Development
The City recognizes that in the short-term, oil, coal, and natural gas will continue to be significant sources of
energy for the United States and other nations until other forms of energy can be developed at a scale to
adequately replace the world's reliance on fossil fuels. Therefore, continued focused research and
development in improving the efficient use of these sources while reducing the environmental costs must
be a high priority for the United States. We support expanded research and development funding and
efforts to create and improve alternative and renewable energy sources and the development of energy
transition scenarios for use by local officials and the general public.
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Commented [GU3]: How specific can we be? I'd
like to say "Continue to maintain and publish the
COST (Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool)
but also don't want to flag it IYKYK
Commented [JT4R3]: I think you make a very
good point here and I'd agree. Typically, I'd say the
more prescriptive the better but in this case, I'd leave
it as general as it is. Thanks for thinking about it the
way you have. 12)
Page 1385 of 1459
14. INDIAN GAMING REGULATIONS
The City is concerned about the uncontrolled growth of Indian Casinos on off premises (reservation) lands.
The City supports legislation that places safeguards on the growth of Indian casinos.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Rewrite Section 20 of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), which authorizes reservation
shopping. This means that under no circumstances can a tribe that already has land in trust
acquire more land that is not contiguous to its reservation and use it for gaming. This will put a
permanent end to reservation shopping.
2. Give local communities a seat at the table during the process to mitigate impacts of casinos
proposed by newly recognized or restored tribes. This means the tribe and local community
must enter into a memorandum of understanding where the tribe must pay the community for
mitigation of direct effects of the casino on infrastructure and services like transportation and
public safety.
3. Ban any attempts to establish off -reservation casinos outside of the state where the tribe
presently resides.
4. Allow States to regulate Fantasy Sports and internet gambling.
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15. HUMAN RIGHTS
Human rights in the United States are facing significant challenges that demand urgent attention. Despite
longstanding commitments to fair access for all communities, structural issues continue to shape outcomes
in education, housing programs, healthcare, and criminal justice, disproportionately affecting
underrepresented communities. These failings undermine the dignity and freedoms of millions. Fixing
them is essential not only to uphold the principles enshrined in the Constitution but also to ensure that
every person can live with safety, opportunity, and respect. Addressing these injustices is not optional, it's a
moral imperative for a truly fair and just society. We request your support through the following legislative
actions.
a. MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCING
Mandatory minimum sentences are punishments ordered byjudges with minimum incarceration terms set
by the legislature. Mandatory minimum sentencing laws effectively strip judges of their authority to take
the circumstances of a crime into account and shift power to prosecutors, allowing prosecutors to use the
threat of bringing charges under these mandatory minimum sentences laws to convince defendants to
plead guilty in order to receive a reduced sentence.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support striking mandatory minimum sentencing provisions, allowing judges to apply the federal
sentencing guidelines with individualized reviews that take facts into consideration in determining
the appropriate sentence.
b. EXPAND THE EARNED INCOME AND CHILD TAX CREDITS
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC) are useful antipoverty measures that still
leave too many people out. In the case of the EITC, the beneficiaries are largely families with dependent
children. Childless adults generally find that their EITC is severely inadequate compared to families with
children; childless adults receive up to $649 in EITC compared to adults with children who can receive up
to $8,046 depending on the number of qualifying children (Internal Revenue Service, 2025). While the One
Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) passed in July of 2025 helped those with children, it did not improve benefits
for childless adults. The result is that over 5 million Americans are unable to escape poverty or are further
impoverished. Expanding the EITC for childless adults would lift an estimated 5 million Americans out of
poverty (Mary & Huang, Childless Adults Are Lone Group Taxed Into Poverty, 2020). As for the CTC, the
OBBBA does little for families with low incomes because the phase -in rules pre-OBBBA are still in place.
These phase -in rules mean that even more children will be affected because their families don't earn
enough to qualify (Tax Policy Center, 2025).
For tax year 2021, the EITC was made more generous on a temporary basis. These changes should be made
permanent and expanded even further.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation to permanently expand the Earned Income Tax Credit and/or the Child Tax
Credit.
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c. INCREASE THE FEDERAL MINIMUM WAGE
At $7.25 an hour, the federal minimum wage has not changed since 2009. Because it has not received any
adjustments since that time, the buying power of a minimum wage job has decreased drastically over the
years to the point where the federal minimum wage of $7.25 was worth 27% less in 2022 than it was in 2009
and 40% less than in 1968 (Cooper et al., 2022)
The current wage is not enough to support working families. An individual working 40 hours a week would
only make about $15,000 a year putting them roughly $17,000 below the poverty threshold for a family of
four (HHS.gov, 2025). According to David Cooper (2022) of the Economic Policy Institute, gradually raising
the minimum wage to $15 would increase the buying power of minimum wagejobs and would lead to greater
wage equality between low and middle wage workers and bring tens of millions of people out of poverty.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation to gradually raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour or more.
d. LICENSE PEOPLE WHO LEARN TRADES WHILE IN PRISON
Inmates who learn trades in prison often have difficulty in finding employment when they leave, partially
because they have been prevented from getting the licenses, they need to work certain jobs. While inmates
may learn useful skills and receive training in prison programs, they are effectively banned from getting a
license when they leave. This has far-reaching ripple effects on other issues, such as housing, for ex -
offenders. If they are unable to attain steady employment, ex -offenders are much less likely to be able to
access housing services. In turn, this can lead to homelessness and a host of additional economic and
societal implications.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that places restrictions on the use of criminal records to disqualify individuals
from receiving occupational licenses for jobs such as hairdressers, taxi drivers, trades learned in
prison, etc.
e. REAUTHORIZE THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT
The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act of 2025 would be a strong deterrent to millions of
eligible voters in this country. Restrictions in that legislation include the requirement to show a valid ID in
order to vote, ending same -day registration, shortening early voting, and closing down polling places in
minority communities. According to the Center for Democracy and Civic Engagement, tens of millions of
Americans don't have a valid driver's license, have an expired license, or are unable to obtain a passport or
birth certificate because of financial burdens or other difficulties. This means these same Americans would
be barred from voting. These issues affect individuals across all party lines; however, they
disproportionately affect Black and Hispanic Americans as well as other underrepresented communities.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislative alternatives to the SAVE Act, including legislation to modernize the formula that
determines which jurisdictions have shown patterns of discriminatory voter -suppression practices,
mandate that all voting changes must be announced in public half -a -year before an election,
expand the federal government's authority to send observers to the polls, modernize voter
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registration with automatic, online, and same -day voter registration, restore voting rights to the
previously incarcerated after they complete their sentence, restrict the ability to purge voters from
the rolls, reform campaign finance transparency and strengthen FEC oversight, reform redistricting
with independent commissions, and standardized criteria and transparency.
f. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY IN HIRING PRACTICES FOR OFFENDERS
Removing the checkbox that asks about criminal history from initial job applications, commonly known as
"Ban the Box," aims to create fairer hiring practices and expand access to employment for people with prior
felony and misdemeanor convictions. By allowing employers to first assess an applicant's qualifications,
experience, and potential, these policies help ensure that individuals are not automatically disqualified
because of their past. Research shows that providing second -chance hiring opportunities supports
community safety and economic growth by reducing recidivism and increasing workforce participation
(NCSL, 2024). Studies have also found that applicants in cities with Ban the Box laws received higher
callback rates and fairer consideration in the hiring process (ILR, 2019). Ultimately, Ban the Box strengthens
communities, and helps employers tap into a wider pool of motivated, qualified talent.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that repeals provisions that prevent individuals with drug convictions from
receiving financial aid through FAFSA or, at a minimum, support legislation that allows a student
who is convicted of a drug offense involving marijuana possession, without the intent to distribute,
to resume or retain federal student aid eligibility while completing a drug rehabilitation program.
g. RECOGNIZE HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHERS AS FORM OF INCOME
Ensuring safe, affordable housing is the most cost-effective strategy for reducing childhood poverty,
increasing economic mobility, and lifting people out of poverty. U.S. housing costs have been rising faster
than incomes for some time. According to the Out of Reach Report, affordable rent for a two -bedroom
apartment in Dubuque requires an hourly wage of $17.87. Nearly one-third of all Dubuque households are
cost burdened, with 1 in 4 renters spending more than 50% of their income on housing costs. Families of
color, single mother households, the elderly, and people with disabilities are disproportionately cost
burdened. To compound matters, in 2023, only 32% of landlords in Dubuque accepted Housing Vouchers as
a source of income. This means that families that are eligible for vouchers may still struggle to find
affordable housing where their voucher is accepted.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that prohibits housing discrimination and requires housing providers to
recognize Housing Choice Vouchers as a legitimate form of income.
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Page 1390 of 1459
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2 1 P a g e
Page 1392 of 1459
g. FULLY FUND HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHER PROGRAM RA9FD ON AET6AL- NEED .............................. �
FEDERAL FOCUS 2022- 2032......................................................................................................................... 5
GRANT OPPORTUNITIES...............................................................................................................................
5
1. INFRASTRUCTURE: TRANSPORTATION GRANT PROGRAMS.....................................................................
6
a. BUILDGRANT.........................................................................................................................................
6
b. SAFE STREETS FOR ALL (SS4A) GRANT.................................................................................................. 8
c. DOT TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNITY & SYSTEM PRESERVATION GRANT PROGRAM BUILD GRANT 9
2. INFRASTRUCTURE: SURFACE TRANSPORTATION................................................................................... 10
a. BUILD GRANT FOR "IMPROVING THE NORTHWEST ARTERIAL/JOHN DEERE ROAD CORRIDOR FOR
FREIGHT MOBILITY"................................................................................................................................
10
b. EAST -WEST CORRIDOR CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS..........................................................................
11
c. NORTHWEST ARTERIAL/HIGHWAY 20 INTERSECTION........................................................................
14
d. SOUTHWEST ARTERIAL (US HIGHWAY 52) PEDESTRIAN / BIKE SHARED USE PATH ...........................
16
e. CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS: US HIGHWAY 20.................................................................................... 17
f. PUBLIC TRANSIT FUNDING..................................................................................................................
17
3. INFRASTRUCTURE: AIR TRANSPORTATION............................................................................................. 19
a. AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT AND ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE................................................................ 19
b. AVIATION WORKFORCE SHORTAGE...................................................................................................
19
c. REPLACEMENT AND LIABILITY OF AQUEOUS FILM FORMING FOAM ................................................. 19
d. TSA AIRPORT WORKER SCREENING.................................................................................................... 20
e. CONTRACT TOWER PROGRAM...........................................................................................................
20
4. INFRASTRUCTURE: PASSENGER RAIL......................................................................................................
21
5. INFRASTRUCTURE: WATER.....................................................................................................................22
a. WASTEWATER & DRINKING WATER...................................................................................................
22
6. INFRASTRUCTURE: BROADBAND & TELECOMMUICATIONS..................................................................
24
a. COMMUNICATIONS............................................................................................................................
24
b. BROADBAND DATA ACT......................................................................................................................
29
7. INFRASTRUCTURE: PARKS AND RECREATIONAL AREAS.........................................................................30
a. LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND (LWCF) - OUTDOOR RECREATION LEGACY PARTNERSHIP
PROGRAM(ORLP)...................................................................................................................................
30
8. CITY/COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES/PROTECTIVE SERVICES...............................................................
31
a. COMBINED COMMUNICATION CENTER.............................................................................................
31
b. CONTINUE SUPPORT FOR ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTER GRANTS .....................................................
31
c. FIRE STATION CONSTRUCTION GRANTS.............................................................................................
31
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d. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS SERVICES PROGRAM .......................................
32
9. HOUSING.................................................................................................................................................
33
a. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDING........................................................ 33
b. MOBILE HOME COMMUNITY PROTECTIONS......................................................................................
33
c. AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS....................................................................................
34
d. ANCHOR INSTITUTIONS......................................................................................................................
34
e. HOMES FOR EVERY LOCAL PROTECTOR, EDUCATOR AND RESPONDER (HELPER) ACT OF 2023
....... 35
10. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.................................................................................................................. 36
a. EDA GRANT PROGRAMS..................................................................................................................... 36
b. FEDERAL HISTORIC TAX CREDITS........................................................................................................ 36
c. NEW MARKET TAX CREDIT PROGRAM................................................................................................ 37
d. CHILDCARE..........................................................................................................................................
38
e. EPA BROWNFIELDS PROGRAM...........................................................................................................
39
f. ARTS & CULTURE.................................................................................................................................
40
11. PUBLIC HEALTH.....................................................................................................................................
44
a. PUBLIC HEALTH FUNDING..................................................................................................................
44
b. LEAD POISONING PREVENTION..........................................................................................................
44
c. LEAD IN DRINKING WATER..................................................................................................................45
d. ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE — SUPPORT INCREASED COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER, NATIONAL HEALTH
SERVICE CORPS, AND TEACHING HEALTH CENTER FUNDING................................................................
45
e. PROTECTING ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE PRESCRIPTION DRUGS.......................................................... 46
f. AUTHORIZE PERMANENT MEDICARE TELEHEALTH FLEXIBILITIES.......................................................
48
g. IMPROVING MATERNAL CARE ACCESS AND OUTCOMES...................................................................
49
12. PLANNING.............................................................................................................................................
50
a. HOUSING & ZONING REFORM............................................................................................................
50
b. CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROGRAM.....................................................................................
51
13. SUSTAINABLE & RESILIENT COMMUNITIES..........................................................................................
53
14. INDIAN GAMING REGULATIONS...........................................................................................................
55
15. HUMAN RIGHTS....................................................................................................................................
56
a. MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCING..............................................................................................
56
b. EXPAND THE EARNED INCOME AND CHILD TAX CREDITS..................................................................
56
c. INCREASE THE FEDERAL MINIMUM WAGE.........................................................................................
57
d. LICENSE PEOPLE WHO LEARN TRADES WHILE IN PRISON.................................................................. 57
e. REAUTHORIZE THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT............................................................................................
58
f. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY IN HIRING PRACTICES FOR OFFENDERS.......................................................... 58
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g. RECOGNIZE HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHERS AS FORM OF INCOME ..................................................... 59
FEDERAL FOCUS 2022- 2032
GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
Federal legislative goals for 2026 will focus on commercial air service, water infrastructure, transportation
infrastructure, economic development, safety, public health, and housing.
As funding for the city is reduced due to state policy, alternative revenue sources become even more
critical. Working strategically with the Mayor and City Council, City staff and our partners, we continue to
seek and secure grant funding for City priorities.
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1. INFRASTRUCTURE: TRANSPORTATION GRANT PROGRAMS
a RA'SE GRANTBUILDGRANT
BETTER
UTILIZING INVESTMENTS TO LEVERAGE DEVELOPMENT (BUILD) GRANT
The City of Dubuque has already benefited from this signature US Department of Transportation funding
program. A $5.7 million TIGER grant was received in 2010 to support the reconstruction of utilities and
complete streets in the Historic Millwork District. Additionally, Dubuque County in partnership with the
City received a $5.4 million BUILD grant in 2019 to support a series of roadway repairs, intersection capacity
and safety improvements, and a trail extension in the vicinity of the John Deere Dubuque Works facility.
The City applied for USDOT TIGER Discretionary Grants in both 2014 and 2017 however our application
requests were not selected. City staff were advised by grant review agency staff that our proposed
infrastructure project grant applications were strong, however the projects were not advanced far enough
in the planning, design, and environmental clearance development phases for selection consideration.
Subsequently, the City applied for a 2021 RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant which was unsuccessful. A
formal debrief with USDOT staff in March of 2022 identified ways in which the project, the narrative and
additional data could strengthen the application.
As a result, in an effort to be better positioned for future Federal Discretionary Grant opportunities, the City
again applied for a 2022 RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant to assist with the planning and design of a
multimodal transportation corridor project for proposed improvements to the Elm Street corridor, the 16th
Street corridor, and the proposed 14th Street Railroad Overpass bridge project.
The 2022 RAISE Planning Grant application proposed a project entitled "Building Bridges to Elevate
Employment ^Ra Equity (B2E2)". Through the grant, the City of Dubuque requested $2,280,000 in USDOT
RAISE Planning funds to assist with the planning and design of a multimodal transportation corridors which
will connect low-income residents with economic opportunities and key community resources in the Kerper
Boulevard Industrial Park, on Chaplain Schmitt Island, in downtown Dubuque and its Historic Millwork
District, and on the west side of the city via the downtown Intermodal Transportation Center.
In August of 2022, the City was notified by the US Department of Transportation that the Building Bridges
to Elevate Employment €q4.* (B2E2) application was selected to receive RAISE Planning Grant funding.
The RAISE grant funding is summarized in the following table:
Fund Description
Percentage
Fund Amount
RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant
52.1%
$ 2,280,000
Local Funds - City
47.9%
$ 2,100,000
Total Project Cost
100%
$ 4,380,000
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BUILDING BRIDGES TO EMPLOYMENT AND EQUITY (B2E2)
■ ■ RAISE Planning Grant
PLANNING AND DESIGN FOR MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION CORRIDOR
• 14TH STREET RAILROAD OVERPASS BRIDGE
• 16TH STREET CORRIDOR l l
• ELM STREET CORRIDOR w
• KERPER BLVD. CORRIDOR
RAISE Infrastructure Planning
Local Funds - City
Local Funds - DRA Contributio
Total Proiect Cost
DUB E
Mosln _ 1h'm'.'4ppi
Grant
52.1%
1 $ 2,280,000
47.9%
$1,350,000
$ 750,000
n
100%
$ 4,380,000
�Z
�gi
,
BUILDING BRIDGES TO ELEVATE EMPLOYMENT (B2E2)
■ RAISE Planning Grant
PLANNING AND DESIGN FOR MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION CORRIDOR
• 14TH STREET RAILROAD OVERPASS BRIDGE - -
• 16TH STREET CORRIDOR I l
ELM STREET CORRIDOR
• KERPER BLVD. CORRIDOR
Fund Description
RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant
Local Funds - City
Local Funds - DRA Contribution
Total Project Cost
wwnr+.�or►r..�,
Percentage Fund Amount
52.1% E2Z;280,000
47.9% 000
$ 750,000
100% 1 $ 4,380.000
GOP
The City completed the consultant selection process in accordance with the Iowa Department of
Transportation (Iowa DOT) federal aid consultant selection process. AECOM Technical Services, Inc. was
selected as the first -ranked Consultant and the City is through contract negotiations for Professional
Consultant Services to complete the Engineering Design and NEPANational Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
/ Environmental Study Phase to advance development for the 132E2 RAISE Infrastructure Planning Grant
project.
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On September 5, 2023, the City Council concurred with the Consultant Selection Committee's
recommendation in the selection of AECOM Technical Services, Inc. to complete the Engineering Design
and NEPA / Environmental Study Phase to advance development for the RAISE Infrastructure Planning
Grant for the project entitled "Building Bridges to Elevate Employment and Equity-(62E2)". AECOM contract
was negotiated, and Iowa DOT / FHWA external audit was approved on January 29, 2024.
City staff, AECOM, Iowa DOT and FHWA staff felt the best approach to develop a contract, scope of
services, and negotiated fee was to separate the design services into 2 phases: Phase I (Concept Design /
NEPA / Public Involvement / Preliminary Design), and a future Phase II (Final Design). Once Phase I
preliminary design and NEPA work elements are completed, City staff will have a more detailed and
comprehensive understanding of the scope of the services needed for the next Phase II (Final Design).
Through a future Supplemental Agreement, a scope of services and fee amount will be developed for Phase
II (Final Design) work.
On February 5, 2024, the City Council awarded the Professional Consultant Services Contract with AECOM
and Notice to Proceed was issued to complete the Phase I - Engineering Design and NEPA / Environmental
Study Phase.
On February 19, 2025, per Resolution NO.46-24, the Mayor and City Council authorized the City to submit
an application to the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) for a RAISE Capital Infrastructure
Implementation Grant to assist with funding for proposed improvements to construct specific elements of
the Building Bridges to Elevate Employment and Equity (B2E2) Project.
On June 26, 2024, the City received an official award notice from the US Department of Transportation for
the RAISE Capital Grant in the amount of $25 Million for the B2E2 project. The total construction cost for
the initial phases of the B2E2 project is estimated to be $38.7 million. In addition to the $25 million RAISE
grant, Dubuque Metropolitan Area Transportations Study (DMATS) will contribute $9.2 million, the City will
contribute $3.6 million, and the Canadian Pacific Kansas City railroad will contribute $1 million.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal level for all the support in
the City receiving RAISE Planning Grant in the amount of $ 2,280,000, and the RAISE Capital Grant
in the amount of $25M. The City of Dubuque requests a categorical exclusion from any further
NEPA/Environmental Study to avoid unnecessary delays.
b. SAFE STREETS FOR ALL (SS4A) GRANT
In February 2023, the City, East Central Intergovernmental Association (ECIA), and our regional local
partners were notified of our awarded Safe Streets for All Grant. The SS4A grant will assist with developing
a regional roadway network comprehensive safety action plan. Iowa State University Institute for
Transportation will lead the effort to development of a comprehensive safety action plan for the regional
roadway network to achieve the long-term objective of reducing transportation related injuries and
working towards zero deaths.
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It is the objective of the City, ECIA, and partners to complete an Action Plan so that we have identified
potential roadway or intersection improvement projects which will be well positioned to compete for
future SS4A Implementation grant opportunities.
SAFE STREETS FOR ALL (SS4A) GRANT
■ ■ Comprehensive Safety Action Plan
ZE
A SAFE SY!
FUNDING SUPPORTS LOCAL INITIATIVES TO PREVENT DEATH
AND SERIOUS INJURY ON ROADS AND STREETS, COMMONLY REFERRE
TO AS "VISION ZERO" OR "TOWARD ZERO DEATHS" INITIATIVEF
• DEVELOPING A COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY ACTION PLAN (ACTION PLAN
• SUPPLEMENTAL PLANNING ACTIVITIES: CONDUCTING PLANNING,
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES FOR PROJECTS AND
STRATEGIES IDENTIFIED IN AN ACTION PLAN
Fund Description
Percentage
Fund Amount
Safe Streets For All (SS4A) Grant
80.0%
$ 200,000
Local Funds - City
12.7%
$ 32,000
Partner Funding - Other
7.2%
$ 18,000
Total Project Cost
100%
$ 250,000
IOWA STATE
DUB E Eu UNIVERSM
bwenpine mr mixareppi City�Asbury PEOSTA jj�"'+� Transpoortatute ion
ww..
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal level for all the support in
the City receiving SS4A Grant in the amount of $200,000.
c. DOT TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNITY & SYSTEM PRESERVATION GRANT PROGRAM
BUILD GRANT
Last offered in FY2012, DOT's Transportation, Community & System Preservation (TCSP) grant program
provided $61 million in funding to plan and implement strategies to improve the efficiency of the
transportation system, reduce its environmental impacts, reduce the need for costly future public
infrastructure investments, ensure efficient access to jobs and services, boost smart growth development
patterns, and leverage private investment. As one of the few direct sources of federal transportation
funding available to local governments, the TCSP program should be reintroduced to help meet community
infrastructure needs. The City of Dubuque in 2012 received a $600,000 TCSP grant that helped in the
reconstruction of Elm Street from 9`" to 11`" Streets. This "Complete Street" is adjacent to the Jule
Intermodal Transportation Center. This street is a key part of the overall Historic Millwork District which has
leveraged this federal funding to help stimulate over $100 million in private redevelopment.
REQUESTED ACTION
Reestablish the DOT Transportation, Community & System Preservation grant program to $1 billion
annually.
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2. INFRASTRUCTURE: SURFACE TRANSPORTATION
The Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act is a five-year transportation bill intended to improve
and expand the Nation's surface transportation infrastructure, including roads, bridges, transit systems and
rail transportation network. This legislation passed in December 2015 and provides direction for
transportation activities for five years.
The bill reforms and strengthens transportation programs, refocuses national priorities, provides longterm
certainty and greater flexibility for states and local governments, streamlines project approval processes,
and maintains strong commitment to safety. Reauthorization of the transportation bill builds on and
strengthens the innovations begun in MAP-21 in areas such as performance -based planning, safety, design,
and freight planning. FAST Act supports policies which expand choices, bolster public health, and
strengthen communities.
An extension of the FAST Act passed in 2020 expired in October of 2021. A multi -year surface
transportation bill is needed to assure funding for future planning and construction of transportation
projects. Support is needed for the Transportation Alternatives Program including the Recreational Trails
Program and Safe Routes to Schools. Combined these programs provide for bike and pedestrian projects
and safety in our local community. The federal fuel tax was last raised in October of 1993 and is not indexed
to inflation, which increased by 77 percent from 1993 until 2020. A long-term fix is also needed for the
Highway Trust Fund.
The FAST Act expires in September of 2026. Federal surface transportation reauthorization takes place
every five years in Congress and is the process used to renew, fund, and update the programs that build
and maintain the nation's roads. bridges. transit. and multimodal networks.
Reauthorization is one of the most important tools Congress has to shape national transportation policy.
Typically passed every five to six years, these bills establish funding levels, define federal priorities, and
guide how transportation investments are made. These decisions influence which types of projects are
eligible, what outcomes are prioritized (such as safety, mobility, economic development, etc.), and how
regions access and manage federal dollars.
a. BUILD GRANT FOR "IMPROVING THE NORTHWEST ARTERIAL/JOHN DEERE ROAD
CORRIDOR FOR FREIGHT MOBILITY"
Dubuque County was awarded a federal BUILD Grant in the amount of $5,452,023 for "Improving the
Northwest Arterial/John Deere Road Corridor for Freight Mobility" and making capacity and safety
improvements to John Deere Road. The Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair Project was added to the
BUILD Grant project because it is a critical freight route that connects to South John Deere Road. The
Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair Project will also provide the non-federal local match to the
Dubuque County BUILD Grant.
The Northwest Arterial project was originally anticipated to be completed by the Iowa DOT, however as
part of the executed Transfer of Jurisdiction Agreement (TOJ), the City agreed to be the lead local agency
responsible for completing the Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair improvements.
Effective January 29, 2021, the TOJ of the Northwest Arterial was completed from the State of Iowa to the
City as part of the Southwest Arterial project. As part of the roadway transfer, the Iowa DOT has issued a
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state of good repair payment to the City in the amount of $5,672,000 to complete pavement rehabilitation
and reconstruction of the Northwest Arterial from US20 to Central Ave / IA3.
Due to the federal funds associated with the BUILD Grant, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is
the lead regulatory agency and responsible for administering the project in coordination with the Iowa
DOT. As a result of the Northwest Arterial being incorporated into the BUILD Grant, the FHWA required that
both the Dubuque County John Deere Road Project and the City's Northwest Arterial Project be "tied"
together through the Iowa DOT's Office of Contracts bid letting process. Additionally, since the BUILD Grant
was awarded to Dubuque County, this required the County to be the lead Contracting Authority for both
Projects.
Bids were received on the project by the Iowa Department of Transportation on April 19, 2022 in Ames.
Pirc-Tobin Construction, Inc., of Alburnett, IA submitted the low bid in the amount of $14,416,742.87 for
the overall project which includes the City Northwest Arterial Project and the County John Deere Build
Grant projects. A summary of the project cost breakdown is as follows:
WBUILD Project Cost Summary
Total Bid 71
City - Northwest Arterial - State of Good Repair Project
$ 8,541�61.5^674, 334.82
Dubuque County - John Deere Road Build Project
874,88 ,336,395,401.42
Rid Total _ PireTabin Construction in=TOTAL PROJECT
COST
$
' ^ "16,7^'.°715,070,136.24
Work on both the Dubuque County John Deere Road Project and the City's Northwest Arterial Project
began in June of 2022 and was completed in the fall of 2023.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal, state and local level for
supporting the BUILD Grant to allow for capacity and safety improvements to John Deere Road and
the Northwest Arterial freight corridors.
b. EAST -WEST CORRIDOR CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS
The US Highway 20 corridor is the primary east -west route in the City of Dubuque and future traffic volume
projections indicate US Highway 20 alone will not provide sufficient capacity for east -west travel in the City.
Capacity along alternate east -west corridors will need to be improved to provide connectivity between the
western growth areas and the downtown urban core.
In August 2017, the City Council listed the East-West Corridor Capacity Improvement Implementation as a
"Top -Priority" in its 2017-2019 Goals and Priorities and directed City staff to begin implementation plans for
the recommendations contained in the East-West Corridor Connectivity Report. The adopted East-West
Corridor Connectivity Study report acts as the City's Master Plan for both short-term and long-term capacity
improvements or corridor modifications to support growing east -west traffic flow in the City. The study
includes recommended improvements supporting complete streets concepts, multi -modal transportation,
vehicle, pedestrian, bicycle, and recreational improvements.
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In an effort to advance this top priority, the City has already completed the following improvements:
Project
Year
Cost
Property Acquisition
2016
$ 853,300
Grandview - Delhi Roundabout
2016
$ 827,000
Loras - Grandview Traffic Signals
2017
$ 370,300
University -Grandview Roundabout
2018
$1,200,000
Total Improvements To -Date
$3,250,300
IhrB = F East/West Corridor Capacity Improvements w �nL
GrandviewlLoras
caq Traffic Signal Improvements
Completed: 21G77
university, Loros.Asbury, F - ►�
•I �_ �Pennsylvania Overlap Section
Proposed Roundabouts
Preliminary Designl
Environmental Study 2018 1
GrandviewIUnive airy
' Roundabout
Proposed Build: 2018 x -
Grand viewlDelhilGraca
Roundabout
exam- Completed 2016
.i
The section of University Avenue, from Pennsylvania Avenue to Loras Boulevard, referred to as the
"Overlap Section" was recommended for converting the three intersections along University Avenue to
roundabouts.
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In July 2018, the City applied for an $18.1 million U.S. Department of Transportation Better Utilizing
Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant request to assist in funding both multi -modal and
capacity improvements within the identified East-West Corridors. Staff was notified in December 2018 that
the City was not selected to receive a BUILD grant.
Following the BUILD grant announcement, the City has an opportunity to move forward and advance the
development of East-West Corridor Capacity Improvements utilizing the new Iowa DOT Federal Aid SWAP
Policy. Effective October 2018, the new Federal Aid SWAP Policy allows federal funds normally allocated to
cities or counties to be replaced with State of Iowa Primary Road funds on a dollar -for -dollar basis. The goal
of the new policy is to increase efficiencies and help local governments reduce the level federal oversight,
regulations, and requirements. Additionally, the use of Primary Road funds will be reimbursed at 100% of
eligible costs which eliminates the requirement for local governments to provide a 20% local match.
In January 2019, the City began the process to de -federalize the East-West Corridor project by paying back
the federal funds previously used for property acquisition. On August 19th, 2019, the City received the
FHWA final closure acceptance for the defederalization of funds related to the East - West Corridor project
With the project defederalization is completed, in December 2020, the SWAP Funding Agreement was
executed with the Iowa DOT which will allow the City to utilize both local City funding and SWAP funding to
begin the preliminary engineering and environmental study phase for intersection capacity improvements
along the University Avenue, Loras Boulevard to Pennsylvania Avenue "Overlap Section".
In December of 2021, the Mayor and City Council approved the selection of HDR, Inc. of Omaha, Nebraska
as the Consultant to complete the Preliminary Engineering Design and Environmental Clearance Phase to
advance the development of East-West Corridor Capacity Improvements along University Avenue.
In March of 2022, with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) funding allocation to the State of
Iowa, the Iowa DOT announced the increase in new federal funds will require additional Primary Road
Funds (PRF) to be used as the State's local match, which will impact the Iowa DOT's ability to provide SWAP
funds for Local Public Agency (LPA) projects. With the reduced Federal -aid SWAP capacity, the Iowa DOT
has informed LPAs that all programs will transition from Federal -aid SWAP to Federal -aid starting in
February 2023 for Cities.
Since the East-West Corridor Capacity Improvements are a multi -year, multi -phased project, which
transitioned from Federal -aid SWAP (100% funding) to Federal -aid (80%/20%funding), in March 2023, the
City was required to identify, and the Mayor and City Council approved as part of the Fiscal Year 2024-2028
adopted budget, the allocation of an additional $2.5 million as the City's 20% local match.
As a result of the funding shift to Federal Aid, this requires the environmental study phase to be elevated to
a Federal NEPA level clearance. Due to the additional level of work to meet the NEPA level regulatory
requirements, this added time required to complete the environmental clearance phase by 12 months and
added an additional cost to the Consultant design services contract. Once the preliminary engineering and
environmental (NEPA) clearance are completed over the next year, corridor impacts will be identified, and
property acquisition could begin. Subject to availability of local match funding, property acquisition could
take approximately 2 years to complete. Once property acquisition is completed within the Overlap Section,
and subject to availability of local match funding, construction to convert the three intersections along
University Avenue to roundabouts could begin and would take approximately 2-3 years to complete.
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REQUESTED ACTION
Support City of Dubuque BUILD grant application for East West Corridor improvements.
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Page 1405 of 1459
to build the project before the tFain traffir dr),-hips
e. NORTHWEST ARTERIAL/HIGHWAY 20 INTERSECTION
The City of Dubuque supports the implementation of capacity improvements along the Highway 20 corridor
and the Northwest Arterial intersection. This intersection is experiencing operational challenges which will
only be compounded now that the Southwest Arterial/ US52 is completed, and commercial traffic is
rerouted from the downtown urban core. The recommended capacity improvements will allow traffic to
travel along Highway 20 more efficiently and safely, from the Northwest Arterial to the Southwest Arterial/
US52 interchange. The Iowa DOT has completed a capacity improvements study and has identified the
preferred roadway corridor and intersection improvement. The Iowa DOT is currently evaluating
alternatives for both funding and phasing the implementation of capacity improvements.
REQUESTED ACTION
Continue to support the Iowa DOT efforts to implement improvements along the Highway 20 corridor
and the Northwest Arterial intersection for safe and efficient travel to the Southwest Arterial/ US52
interchange.
fd. SOUTHWEST ARTERIAL (US HIGHWAY 52) PEDESTRIAN / BIKE SHARED USE PATH
After nearly 30 plus years in the making, it is with great appreciation in celebrating the completion of the
Southwest Arterial / US Highway 52 project, which was epeeiego -ened to vehicular traffic on August 17,
2020.
The final cost projection for the fully completed 4-lane freeway is approximately $160 Million. This historic
milestone achievement would not have been possible without the strong collaborative partnerships with
the Iowa department of Transportation and Dubuque County.
Future Initiatives
As part of the 4-lane highway construction, grading was also completed for a future bike pedestrian shared
use path from US Highway 20 to US Highway 61/151. To accommodate the future trail - several of the
bridges along the corridor incorporated a separated shared use on the bridges. A future initiative will be to
pave the 6.1-mile bike pedestrian shared use path which will complete a connection between the Heritage
Trail and the Mines of Spain Recreational Area.
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REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque would like to thank all of its partners at the federal and state level for all the
support in making the Southwest Arterial, our #1 surface transportation project a reality and now is
seeking $6 million to fund paving the bike and pedestrian shared use trail that has been graded as
part of the project.
ge. CAPACITY IMPROVEMENTS: US HIGHWAY 20
Transportation infrastructure connectivity is essential to a vibrant economy and thriving community.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque supports completion of four -lane construction on Highway 20 to Chicago. To
accomplish this project and other significant highway and interstate capacity improvements, the
City supports efforts to identify a long term, sustainable revenue source that keeps the Highway
Trust Fund fully funded to be used for rebuilding and maintaining infrastructure.
4f. PUBLIC TRANSIT FUNDING
The new infastructure BIL provides stable formula funding and competitive grant program to address bus
and bus facility needs. The BIL is greatly appreciated for increasing operational needs, but supply chain
issues are still causing a major delay in technology and equipmen leadtimes and cost increases.
The City of Dubuque has received a planning grant to analyze travel patterns in the community and
develop a replicable model for responding to travel demand through planning of transportation investment
that incorporates all modes - car, bus, bike and pedestrian. The goal of this research is to create a more
efficient and cost effective public transit system modeling tool for cities under 100,000 population.
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This research effort and integrated approach to addressing community travel needs will provide
opportunities to expand public transit service to our citizens. Without additional operating funding to
support current services and new operating grant opportunities to expand services, implementation of this
project could be limited.
Technical assistance for cities interested in undertaking bus rapid transit projects earlier in the planning
stages would also be appreciated. Currently, most planning must be complete and Small Starts funding
already secured for a city to be eligible for this type of assistance. Operational funding to support ongoing
route analysis and planning at the transit system level would be helpful as well.
Capital funding for vehicles and onboard technology replacement are needed. Many vehicles in Iowa, and
Dubuque specifically, are at or near the end of their useful life. Onboard technology provides essential data
for management and dispatch personnel as well as drivers and passengers, but to upgrade or replace this
technology fleet -wide is costly. Stagnant operational funding and limited capital funding opportunities
make developing responsive, cost-effective public transit opportunities difficult.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support increased funding for operational funds through the 5307 program and pursue additional
grant funding for bus replacement to include four new transit vehicles, specifically two smaller,
heavy duty, thirty-foot GILLIG buses and two mini buses.
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3. INFRASTRUCTURE: AIR TRANSPORTATION
a. AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT AND ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE
Modernize Small Community Air Service Development (SCASD) Essential Air Service (EAS) to meet today's
evolving small community and industry needs.
REQUESTED ACTION
Continue to appropriate funds for Air Service Development and Essential Air Service Programs
identified in FAA Reauthorization Act 2024 and include modification to programs that will help
restore and retain commercial air service in airports that lost all commercial service such as DBQ.
b. AVIATION WORKFORCE SHORTAGE
Congress must take immediate action to address the aviation workforce shortage through multiple programs
and initiatives. Aviation workforce shortages are creating a strain felt across the industry and is being felt
most by the smaller communities who are struggling to maintain their basic service, or have lost service
altogether.
REQUESTED ACTION
Appropriate funds toward Aviation Workforce identified in FAA Reauthorization Act 2024: Aviation
Workforce Development Programs, Airport Service Workforce Analysis
c. REPLACEMENT AND LIABILITY OF AQUEOUS FILM FORMING FOAM
Congress pass the following legislation related to airports past FAA mandated use of PFOS and PFAS in
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF).
REQUESTED ACTION
Appropriate f uRd fee niF SeFyi,.,, n,..,,.1..,... eRt Rd Psse Rtia' Ai. SeFyiee PFegFa I «F J
€AAthe $350 million authorized by the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 ;]Ad Duhuque in the
towards aAD/l II ITV C A/ll ICl111C C11 AA Cl1DnAlA1r rnAnA
GeAgFess eaR aide aiFperts with liability legislatieR that helds aiFpeFts haFFniess feF pFeseRt and past bise ef
DC(1C ~..a DRAG iR Aqueous Film F,.... iRg Foam as Rdatea by the PAA.
a. AppFepFiate Funds tewaFd PFAS Replacement Grant Program'~~«;F ,;~ AAA
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Page 1409 of 1459
b. -Pass Legislation that exempts airports from enforcement actions under the CERCLA or
other State and Local environmental laws related to the use of PFOA/PFAS.
d. TSA AIRPORT WORKER SCREENING
The need for Airport Worker Screening remains necessary in the ever -evolving homeland security
landscape.
REQUESTED ACTION
Require TSA to retain the roles the agency was created to execute following 9/11, instead of placing
that unfunded burden on Airport's. One of TSA's founding purposes was to provide consistent
security screening across the National Airspace System, and now critical security screening tasks are
being placed back into pre-9/11 processes and programs.
e. CONTRACT TOWER PROGRAM
Safety and common-sense dictates continued funding of the ATC program and the contract tower program
or restoration of FAA staffing of these facilities. A United States Department of Transportation Office of
Inspector General Report Number AV-2013-009, issued on November 5, 2012, found that "a contract tower
cost, on average, about $1.5 million less to operate than a similar FAA tower." The report further stated,
"contract towers had a significantly lower number and rate of safety incidents compared to similar FAA
towers."
REQUESTED ACTION
We urge Congress to continue to fully fund the Contract Tower program
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4. INFRASTRUCTURE: PASSENGER RAIL
Through the Envision 2010 process, Dubuque resident---; identified the Fetum of passengeF rail to Dubuque as
ene of its `op `en pFieFities. Local passenger rail advocates established a passenger rail citizen group, "Ride
the Rail," to engage the public, secure support and promote the return of passenger rail service between
Chicago to Dubuque.
The City has been successful in partnership with DMATS and the local Ride the Rail citizen group in securing
state and local funding for the feasibility study of passenger rail return between Chicago and Dubuque.
Federal funding support for passenger rail projects provides the critical next step for the return of passenger
rail service between Chicago and Dubuque.
REQUESTED ACTION
Encourage Illinois Department of Transportation efforts to obtain federal funding for passenger rail
service from Chicago to Dubuque.
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5. INFRASTRUCTURE: WATER
a. WASTEWATER & DRINKING WATER
The nation's wastewater and drinking water infrastructure is experiencing an infrastructure need of $655
billion over the next twenty years. We congratulate Congress on the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure
Legislation (BIL) which includes $105 billion in water infrastructure funds.
The City of Dubuque has ongoing funding needs for drinking water and clean water infrastructure. The State
Revolving Loan (SRF) program has been very effective in helping the City address water infrastructure needs.
For every federal dollar of SRF spending, 21.4% is returned to the federal government in the form of taxes
and on average, 16.5 jobs are created for every 1 million spent through SRF; each job is estimated to bring
about $60,000 in labor income. Infrastructure investments create 16 percent more jobs than equivalent
spending on a payroll tax holiday, 40 percent more jobs than an across-the-board tax cut, and more than five
times as many jobs as temporary tax cuts.
Every million dollars of SRF spending results in $2.95 million of input in the U.S. economy. This is a smart
investment complimenting a narrow federal role of ensuring modern, efficient infrastructure. Since this is a
loan program, SRFs leverage resources from all levels of government and the private sector empowering
state and local governments. SRFs are voluntary, thereby reducing regulatory burdens on businesses.
Dubuque has utilized SRF funds for two major projects, the Bee Branch project and the Water and Resource
Recovery project. Dubuque is poised to now include lead service line replacement funds through SRF or other
federal infrastructure grant funds. The SRF funding source is critical to cities.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque supports the expansion ofgrant funds and SRF forgivable loans available through
the Bipartisan Infrastructure Legislation (BIL) for water infrastructure needs, particularly the city-
wide lead service line replacement program, the Catfish Creek sanitary sewer improvements, and
other priorities.
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6. INFRASTRUCTURE: BROADBAND & TELECOM MUICATIONS
a. COMMUNICATIONS
Asa member of the National League of Cities (NLC), the United States Conference of Mayors, and the National
Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA), the City of Dubuque joins these
organizations in acknowledging that the historic transformation of our communications infrastructure is
essential to the economic competitiveness of the local governments, states, and the nation.
Preserve local authority to manage public rights of way for the benefit of everyone.
Maintaining public right of way and ensuring shared use, for the benefit of the public through partnerships
and cooperative agreements, benefit the public, -not only—iFh monetary payments, but most importantly a
maximum investment in broadband and communications for the benefit of the community. This is a win -win
for the community and communications providers to get the needed services to residents and businesses in
a timely and economically competitive way.
Protect local authority to establish taxes that are consistent with local needs and maintain adequate
revenue.
Local governments recognize and support efforts to modernize the collection and administration of local
communications taxes, but in a manner that preserves the ability of local government to impose and collect
taxes to fund vital services for its citizens consistent with local values.
Protect and enhance local ability to provide for homeland and hometown security.
Local government's first responders need fully deployed E911, access to spectrum and funding for
interoperable communications to protect the public.
Recognize local roles in promoting nondiscriminatory access to the full range of communications services.
Municipalities are helping to bring advanced services to individuals and small businesses. Cities must have
the autonomy necessary to encourage competition and infrastructure deployment that will lower prices and
improve service quality for their citizens.
REQUESTED ACTION
• Do not nationalize cable and video franchising.
• Protect local governments' ability to facilitate or offer advanced communications services to
their citizens.
• Any changes to the collection and administration of communications taxes, including
extensions or modifications of the Internet Tax Freedom Act. must preserve local authority
to collect revenue consistent with local needs.
• Restore the FCC's Spectrum Auction Authority. The FCC is responsible for managing and
licensing the electromagnetic spectrum for commercial users and for non-commercial users
includin state count and local oyernments. This includes public safety commercial and
fixed and mobile wireless services, broadcast television and radio, satellite
and other services.
• Immediate necessity for Congress to reauthorize the FCC's authority to auction spectrum
licenses, which is vital for the U.S. to remain competitive in wireless and broadcast services.
• Development of a long-term strategic spectrum pipeline to meet future demand and
maintain U.S. leadership in technological innovation.
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Local Government Principles for Communications Policy Modernization
We believe that Congress and state and local governments can achieve these goals by embracing the
following principles:
• State and Local Authority
The City of Dubuque supports a balanced federalist approach that encourages new
innovation and technology while preserving appropriate authority for state and local
governments to protect their citizens — particularly in relation to public safety and
homeland security, promoting local competition, promoting economic development,
taxation, expansion of access to advanced networks, rights -of -way management, and
consumer protection.
• Public Safety
State and local public safety agencies rely heavily on communications services and systems
to protect public safety. In order for states and localities to carry out this mission, it is
essential that important obligations, such as 911 and CALEA, be applied to all relevant
communications platforms, regardless of technology. States and localities must also have
sufficient spectrum and funding to obtain interference -free, interoperable emergency
communications. In addition, it is important to preserve and strengthen the ability of state
and local government to protect and warn the public through emergency alert systems.
• Use of public property and right-of-way
State and local governments are the trustees of public property and must retain the power
to manage those assets for the benefit and safety of the community.
• Municipal Broadband
State and local governments can play an important role in making advanced services,
including broadband services, available to their citizens, based on specific local needs and
conditions. Federal policy should promote the rights of local governments that choose to
offer those services directly to their citizens.
• Video Franchising
The federal government should not preempt or restrict local authority to negotiate
mutually beneficial agreements and grant franchises to video providers. Public,
educational, and governmental channels are important tools citizens use to participate.
City of Dubuque Supports:
Legislation that preserves and extends municipal government authority to provide communications services
to their constituents.
Legislation that overturns the FCC cable franchise order and returns to the local franchising scheme set out
in the Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984.
The City of Dubuque opposes a wireless tax moratorium.
Ensuring expanded access to multichannel video programming is an important role of local government.
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Ensuring fair access to digital equity is aehievedresources by addressing inequalities of availability,
affordability, and accessibility of tech nology—=specifically high-speed internet.
Net neutrality rules require that internet providers treat all internet traffic equally, outlawing practices like
traffic throttling or paying for content to be prioritized.
Expanded Access
States and localities support policies and programs that advance access to communications services and
ubiquitous broadband deployment in all areas of the country. Current initiatives that promote universal and
affordable access to communications services include the federal and state universal service funds, the
ERate program, Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP,) urban and rural infrastructure support
mechanisms, and obligations ensuring equitable cable and broadband deployment.
ACP
Galvanized by the pressure of COVID-19, a bipartisan Congress created the ACP with $14.2 billion in funding
in November 2021. The program provides eligible households a discount on Internet services of up to $30
per month —and up to $75 per month on qualifying Tribal lands. It also provides a one-time discount of up to
$100 towards a laptop, desktop, or tablet from participating providers.
Since then, the ACP has helped provide Internet to over 20.5 million American families and veterans. Thanks
to the ACP, low-income households can afford the access they need for work, education, healthcare, and
democratic engagement in the digital age. The data shows that we are making real progress on the affordable
access problem that has plagued the U.S. for over a generation. Broadband connectivity is essential to
maximizing educational opportunities, stimulating economic growth, lowering healthcare costs, investing in
a skilled workforce, and connecting individuals with their loved ones.
The ACP's funding has expired, relegating those Americans to second-class status again unless Congress
steps up to replenish the fund. In addition to availability and accessibility, ACP directly addresses the best
known factor contributing to the digital divide —price.
REQUESTED ACTION
Government leadership needs to ensure the ACP's continuation and appreciate the urgency. By
extending ACP funding, Congress can ensure the program continues to provide enduring
opportunities for all Americans.
Taxation
States and localities should retain full flexibility, as does the federal government, to structure their
tax policies in ways that best serves their citizens.
Ad adMqMqstFatq@M
Consumer Protection
States and localities are best positioned to respond effectively to a wide variety of consumer concerns,
including but not limited to complaints related to service quality and affordability, reliability, deceptive
practices, billing practices, privacy, and criminal activity.
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Wireless Zoning and Siting
It is essential for local communities to be able to address the expansion of wireless facilities to promote the
deployment of advanced communications while also protecting the interests of citizens in safety, sound
planning, and aesthetic concerns. Cellular carriers have petitioned the FCC to create new, onerous
regulations that would make it more difficult for local governments to carry out their responsibilities in this
area. The Communications Act prohibits such FCC regulation. Congress should ensure that the balance
struck in federal law is not overturned by agency action.
In 2019 the City established a Small Cell Aesthetics guideline which outlined permit procedures, design
standards and location preferences. The goal is to encourage preferred locations, collocation, and
maintaining the unique community character and distinct aesthetics using "stealth" techniques and, for our
residents, providing advance notification of pending applications. Congress should support the City's efforts
in establishing and implementing such standards for the welfare of all.
Local government strongly endorses promoting competition for all consumers and treating like services
alike. The elected leaders of our nation's cities and counties stand ready and willing to welcome video
competition in their communities. Centralizing franchising at the federal or state level, however, limits the
benefits of head -to -head video competition to a chosen few, and deprives consumers of important
protections.
The FCC
Although the courts have upheld the transparency rule but vacated the no -blocking and no -unreasonable -
discrimination rules, there is no guarantee from the FCC of net neutrality. The new arrangement stands to
benefit large ISPs immensely while potentially harming small start-ups, entrepreneurs, and consumers
especially in locations where providers are limited.
Although there is a disclosure requirement and providers are prevented from engaging in unfair, deceptive,
and anticompetitive practices, issues will be handled after occurring and providers could bypass unfair
practices in the name of "reasonable, network management."
REQUESTED ACTION
1. States where statewide or state-controlled franchising is currently in place do not see greater or
faster video competition deployment than states where it is not.
2. Franchises do not just provide permission to offer video services. They are the core tools local
government uses to manage streets and sidewalks, provide for public safety, enhance
competition, and collect compensation for private use of public land. Eliminating local franchises
deprives local government of the power to perform basic functions.
3. Competition is for everyone. Current national policy implemented through franchises
encourages competition throughout the country, not just in urban or suburban areas and not
just forthe wealthy. In less than ten years, underthe current system, broadband service has been
made available to 91 percent of all homes passed by cable.
4. Neither Congress nor the FCC should tryto manage local streets and sidewalks from Washington.
National franchising would abrogate a basic tenet of federalism by granting companies access to
locally owned property on federally defined terms.
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5. Market factors, not local governments, control the pace of new broadband deployment.
Telephone companies have not yet seriously dedicated resources to negotiate franchises in many
markets. Potential video competitors require relatively few franchises to implement their
announced business plans (for AT&T 1,500-2,000 franchises, for Verizon 100-200 franchises).
Tech Entrepreneurship and Competition.
States and localities benefit from, and support, competition and innovation and technology neutrality.
When a fully competitive market does not exist, states and localities must retain the authority to ensure
nondiscriminatory access to essential facilities, to prevent incumbents from using market power to stifle
competition and innovation, and to maintain consumer safeguards when market forces fail.
There are arguments for and against net neutrality. The City of Dubuque supports efforts for Internet to
remain a level playing field for all and the FCC to protect an "open internet." Given Dubuque's focus on
small business and innovation, Dubuque would likely be impacted by the anti -competitive risks that come
with ending net neutrality more than other Iowa communities.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City supports legislation that would restore net neutrality.
Broadband Acceleration Initiative
In 2016 the City of Dubuque launched its Broadband Acceleration Initiative. Operating primarily in
public/private collaborations, the Initiative has been a resounding success by increasing broadband access,
capacity, speeds, and competitors. Every business center has redundant high-speed access and a five-year
fiber -to -the -home build -out is underway. Recently the City has added a strong eyfair access
component to the initiative, beginning with free local Wi-Fi and low-cost access options in our lowest
income census tracks. Universal, affordable, high-speed access is the goal, and we are making progress.
However, that progress is hampered by outdated governmental data, policies, and funding priorities. We
believe that the following Federal Broadband Initiatives/Efforts are critical to the continued success of
Dubuque's Broadband Acceleration Initiative.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Continued efforts to produce Immediate and accurate revision of FCC broadband access maps.
It has been acknowledged by industry and both political parties that these maps, which underly
both federal policy and funding decisions on broadband, are outdated, use inaccurate
information and are subject to manipulation by incumbent carriers.
2. Until consensus mapping and data is available, uncouple federal broadband funding decisions
from the current FCC "targeted service area" calculations. As an example, when using ACS
census data, Dubuque shows several lower -income census tracts where 25% to 30% of
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households reporting no consistent internet access. However, the "TSA" map by the FCC shows
no (zero) targeted service areas anywhere in the community of Dubuque.
3. Utilize a definition of "served" areas in the realm of broadband connectivity to include the
measures of affordability, availability and accessibility. The problems of available, affordable,
and accessible connectivity, in light of a growing number of devices, and capacity to deliver a
consistent, usable broadband technology in more densely populated areas are significant
factors contributing to the uneven digital 4wqu4yaccess that exists among residents.
Provide flexibility for the USDA ReConnect Loan and Grant Fund and other broadband access programs to
allow rural and small urban areas (under 100,000 in population) to collaborate on broadband infrastructure
and costs. These areas are intimately connected via transportation networks, labor -sheds, power systems,
and the like. The ability to scale rural efforts via collaboration with small urban areas would accelerate
broadband access to both. From a policy perspective, allow municipalities to treat broadband access as an
essential corporate purpose and dissuade state policymakers from creating state level barriers for
municipal action on broadband.
b. BROADBAND DATA ACT
The availability of accurate and readily accessible data, consistent collection methods across all
carriers/providers and data visualization tools provides a potential means of maintaining an open and fair
internet. By guaranteeing comprehensive, quality information on broadband access, bandwidth, and
speeds across all delivery methods, will result in an ability for cities to monitor services in our communities.
The outcome of this initiative rps,-'*,c�a.ts On aOn a is the ability to identify and respond to gaps in
telecommunications equity P a,access in communities use most needing broadband services.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support the FCC must collect and disseminate granular broadband service availability data
(broadband maps) from wired, fixed -wireless, satellite, and mobile broadband providers. To do this,
the FCC is required to establish the Broadband Serviceable Location Fabric (a dataset of geocoded
information for all broadband service locations, atop which broadband maps are overlaid) as the
vehicle for reporting broadband service availability data. Additionally, the FCC must put forth
specified requirements for service availability data collected from broadband providers, and it must
create a challenge process to enable the submission of independent data challenging the accuracy
of FCC broadband maps within reasonable windows of time.
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7. INFRASTRUCTURE: PARKS AND RECREATIONAL AREAS
a. LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND (LWCF)I- OUTDOOR RECREATION LEGACY
PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM (ORLP)
Land and water conservation fund has been critical to the development of outdoor recreational
opportunities in Dubuque. Past grant awards have funded softball field development for youth and adults,
open space development in the area of historically significant places along the Mississippi River, and
expansion of the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center at the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area. Each of these
developments has been very important to expansion of outdoor recreation. Increased funding of this
program is critical to Dubuque as a partnering source for enhancing outdoor recreation for our citizens
which increases the health and well-being of the community.
The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program awards grants through LWCF supporting
development of new parks and renovating outdoor recreation infrastructure in underinvested urban
communities. Dubuque has leveraged this program twice for a two-phase redevelopment of Dubuque's
Comiskey Park. Phase 1 is complete and has been transformational to the neighborhood, and Phase 2 will
complete the project in 2026-27. It is a gamechanger. This funding is critical to the efforts where every
person, no matter your zip code, can access quality parks and green spaces.
REQUESTED ACTION
Pass the Outdoors for all Act which could codify the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership
Program into law. Increase the overall funding of LWCF and support Land and Water Conservation
Fund (LWCF) state assistance program receives 40% of LWCF funding as projects are more
expensive every year.
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Commented [GU1]: maybe change the
heading on page 1 to reflect ORLP
Commented [JT2R1 ]:Great suggestion. Thank
you. I've updated the title within the table of
contents. Done.O
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8. CITY/COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES/PROTECTIVE SERVICES
a. COMBINED COMMUNICATION CENTER
The need for a combined 911 Communications Center and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has been
brought to the forefront of the public safety committee after multiple recent events. The current
communications center is undersized for the needs of our increased population and calls for service. The
center is unable to expand to meet the increasing demands of the emergency calls and for future
technologies. The recent disasters that occurred in Dubuque County and the State of Iowa brought the need
for a dedicated emergency operations center to the forefront. The city and county now use the classroom
areas of the Dubuque County Firefighters Training Center which is converted as needed to an EOC operation.
An extended flooding event along the Mississippi River or any other long-term disaster would tax the
resources of the city and county and the current set up would hamper our response to disasters. We are
experiencing more major weather events and disasters and we have received eight presidential disaster
declarations in the past 18 years. With the recent Pandemic, the Communications Center had to spit into two
rooms because there was not enough room for the dispatchers to be socially distant from one another due
to the small size of the Center. Several call takers had to be moved to another room which caused a slowdown
in response times due to not being in the same room. The City's 911 center needs to have room available for
expansion. A dedicated EOC will allow local government the ability to enhance response and recovery
operations following an event it would also assist us in preparing for planned events that overtax our
response capabilities.
REQUESTED ACTION
Assist the City of Dubuque and Dubuque County in identifying funding support for a combined 911
Center/EOC estimated to cost $16-$19 million dollars.
b. CONTINUE SUPPORT FOR ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTER GRANTS
In weighing opportunities for future expansion of fire units, the City must support vital federal programs
like the Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) grant program. This program can help the City as it seeks to expand
firefighter and paramedic numbers in the future.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support federal efforts to maintain and expand the Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) grant program,
including the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response program.
c. FIRE STATION CONSTRUCTION GRANTS
Fire Station Construction Grants Act authorizes $1 billion in fire station construction grants to be
administered by FEMA. Specifically, it directs FEMA to establish a grant program to modify, upgrade, and
construct fire and EMS department facilities. These grants can be used for:
• Building, rebuilding, or renovating fire and EMS department facilities;
• Upgrading existing facilities to install exhaust emission control systems;
• Installing backup power systems;
• Upgrading or replacing environmental control systems, such as HVAC systems;
• Removing or remediating mold;
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• Constructing or modifying living quarters for use by personnel; and
• Upgrading fire and EMS stations or building new stations to meet modern building codes and
standards as set by the National Fire Protection Association and International Code Council.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support all congressional efforts to introduce and pass the Fire Station Construction Grants Act to
provide funds to the City for the purpose of building new fire and EMS facilities.
d. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS SERVICES PROGRAM
The U.S. Department of Justice's (DOJ) Community Relations Services (CRS) office is the only federal agency
dedicated to working with community groups to resolve conflict and prevent hate crimes. DOJ CRS provides
facilitation, mediation, training, and consultation services to improve communities' abilities to problem solve
and build capacity. New resources are necessary to rebuild trust between local police departments and the
communities they serve. CRS could launch a mini -grant program (up to $20,000 per community) to support
facilitated discussions among police departments, civic groups and institutions, and residents, seeking to
foster community policing approaches and address •aeial iRjustiee eeReemsbarriers to trust across groups.
REQUESTED ACTION
Expand the DOJ's Community Relations Services program to $30 million annually.
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9. HOUSING
a. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDING
The City of Dubuque relies on CDBG money to fund many of its vital programs. Projects that are at least
partially funded by CDBG include rehabilitation of rental and owner -occupied housing, lead paint hazard
abatement, commercial and industrial building rehabilitation and economic development, childcare referral
services, credit repair programs, to support operations of several non -profits providing direct services to
income -eligible individuals and families, as part of the community development/neighborhood strategy
program. CDBG can be used to further weatherization e#94s, alteFRatiye eReFg , efforts, and other
initiatives proposed as separate increases in the budget. Preparing additional rules and regulation for new
programs, when the outcomes can be met in existing programs causes duplicative administrative efforts
and required funding for those duplicated efforts. Focusing on programs that are established and produce
stated outcomes will help decrease the overall budget of the United States.
The CDBG formula funding has never been adjusted for inflation (since the inception of the program in
1974), even though construction costs, wages, and other program costs have escalated sharply in the past
four decades. Continued funding of CDBG is needed to provide the flexibility for communities to fund a
myriad of activities, fill gaps where needed, and attract additional resources to projects.
A♦ *"',ter-c,xis-cn-rrct'mpin the FY26 Senate Appropriations Bill. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) is funded
at $3.31 billion (decreased from $3.473 billion, or 65. in the prior year). CDBG resources create economic
opportunity, suitable living environments, and provide decent housing. Nearly %half of the households in
the City of Dubuque are considered at or below moderate income by HUD's standards, meaning CDBG
resources impact a significant number of our local community members. We strongly encourage the
consideration to increase CDBG funding in FY =242026.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque asks our congressional members to support the U.S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development's Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) and urge you to
appropriate $3.3 billion in formula funding for the program in FY 20242026. CDBG has been critical
in meeting the public improvement, public services, economic development, and affordable
housing needs in our community. Further, there is great opportunity for this
The City of Dubuque also requests increased funding for
the administration of the federal Housing Choice Voucher Program.
b. MOBILE HOME COMMUNITY PROTECTIONS
Legislation related to mobile homes and mobile home communities was adopted at a time when mobile
homes were truly mobile. Today, mobile homes are more stationary than they have been
historically. However, the laws both in Iowa lawsand other states have not been updated to reflect this
important and highly consequential change. Today, some companies are using current law to their financial
benefit and to the detriment of mobile home community residents. These predatory practices are putting
vulnerable citizens in financially precarious situations and sometimes in financial jeopardy. Mobile home
communities can be a viable choice in Iowa's efforts to create affordable housing opportunities across the
state. Therefore, review and reform of current law is vital.
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Support Senate Appropriations proposed funding level of $10 million for competitive PRICE grants.
c. AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS
Homelessness is increasing across the nation due to increased untreated mental health issues, lack of
affordable housing, and inflation. Eviction rates in the City of Dubuque are increasing due to the lack of
ability to pay rent. Rents are increasing faster than the cost of living due to a low vacancy rate, which is
seen across the nation due to a shortage of housing units.
The significant changes proposed by the President's requested FY26 budget would consolidate many of the
funding streams under the Homelessness Assistance Grants into one ESG block grant, and would eliminate
Continuum of Care funding, which is necessary for permanent supportive housing and rapid rehousing by
some of our nation's most vulnerable populations.
REQUESTED ACTION
• Support a minimum of $214_5 billion for HUD's homeless assistance grants, including at least
$250290 million for the Emergency Solutions Grant program. Reject the consolidation of grant
streams under HAG funding; support the Continuum of Care program at $4 billion.
Support funding of the National Housing Trust Fund and support a direct allocation to local
governments once the funds reach $1 billion.
d. ANCHOR INSTITUTIONS
ANCHOR institutions, including hospitals and healthcare systems, colleges, universities, and cultural
institutions, are driving economic development, job creation, and private investments in the struggling
communities they serve. Over the past decade, a national ecosystem of professional associations,
foundations, networks, and consultants has evolved to develop and implement anchor institution -centered
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approaches to produce targeted community benefits. With this national network of resources in place,
federal investment could play a key role in catalyzing and supporting the power of anchor institutions to
create vibrant communities. America's cities and towns call for the creation of a new Anchoring
Neighborhoods, Communities & Housing to Opportunities for Revitalization (ANCHOR) Institutions Initiative
at HUD that would provide $250,000 strategic planning grants to communities to boost economic
development and revitalization in neighborhoods through collaboration with key local anchors. These HUD
ANCHOR grants would support a local plan and/or pilot program that aligns shared interests and leverages
partners' respective strengths to promote improvement in key impact areas: affordable housing,
educational e9oAyfair access, health and wellness, safe and accessible neighborhoods, healthy nutrition,
and workforce development.
REQUESTED ACTION
Create a HUD "ANCHOR Institutions Initiative" $25 million annually.
e. HOMES FOR EVERY LOCAL PROTECTOR, EDUCATOR AND RESPONDER (HELPER) ACT OF
2023
The HELPER Act (S� / MR. 170S. 1514 / H.R. 3170) seeks to amend the National Housing Act to create
a tailored mortgage insurance program for first responders and teachers. `eRatE)F "A...,.0 o hi (R F
Brown (D 0H), Raphael G. Warneck (D GA), Robert Menendez (D Nj), CatheriRe Cortez Maste (D NV),
se-speAser--The HELPER Act aims to provide favorable mortgage terms and conditions for eligible first
responders, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, emergency medical technicians
(EMTs) and teachers. By establishing a dedicated mortgage insurance program, the bill eliminates the
traditional mortgage down payment requirement and monthly mortgage insurance premiums, which can
be substantial barriers to homeownership.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support passage of the HELPER Act S. 978 1 HR 2094
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10. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
a. EDA GRANT PROGRAMS
projects, leveraging $15 On pFivate investment plus ! te I leeal Match feF evep� dollar in EDA funding. A look
Over the past five years, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has dramatically expanded
its role in supporting local and regional economic resilience. Since 2019, EDA has invested more than $6
billion across 3,000+ projects nationwide, targeting communities facing economic distress, industry
disruptions, disasters, and recovery needs. These investments have helped create or retain over 550,000
lobs and have leveraged more than $67 billion in private investment, demonstrating EDA's ability to unlock
substantial non-federal capital for infrastructure, workforce, entrepreneurship, and innovation initiatives.
EDA funding remains highly competitive and consistently oversubscribed, even as communities face
increasing costs for job -creating infrastructure, industrial site readiness, technology adoption, and
workforce training. Recent federal emphasis on advanced manufacturing and innovation underscores EDA's
growing importance as a catalyst for local economic competitiveness.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City respectfully requests that Congress increase annual EDA appropriations and maintain
strong support for programs that fund industrial sites, workforce facilities, innovation
infrastructure, and community revitalization. Additional capacity in these programs would allow
cities like ours to compete more effectively for transformational projects and accelerate private
sector investment that strengthens local economies.
b. FEDERAL HISTORIC TAX CREDITS
The Federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit is the nation's largest federal incentive promoting urban and rural
revitalization through private investment in reusing historic buildings. The credit encourages reinvestment
in downtowns, generates jobs, and is instrumental in preserving the historic places that give cities, towns,
and rural areas their unique character. For every one dollar invested through the Federal Historic
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Preservation tax credit, five dollars are leveraged from the private sector. The credit is not paid until all the
restoration work is complete and approved by the US Department of Interior. Dubuque has seen total
improvements valued at $929 m.,.ien925million since 1985 in the downtown-,,anrZMain Street ^^^' �
r'vPrfrnnt.
The City of Dubuque strongly supports the continuation and expansion of the Federal Historic Tax Credit
(HTC), recognizing its transformative impact on revitalizing historic communities and driving economic
development. As a city deeply committed to preservation, we align with the advocacy efforts of the
National Trust Community Investment Corporation and the National Trust for Historic Preservation in
emphasizing the HTC's role as a vital tool for fostering public -private partnerships and enhancing the
unique character of our neighborhoods. Historic rehabilitation projects supported by the HTC have
catalyzed investment in Dubuque, creating jobs, attracting tourism, and maintaining the integrity of our
historic architecture. With the 119th Congress poised to address significant tax policy reforms, we urge
lawmakers to protect and improve the HTC, ensuring it remains a strong driver of community revitalization
nationwide. Dubuque stands ready to collaborate with national preservation organizations, the Historic Tax
Credit Coalition, and advocates nationwide to ensure robust congressional support for this critical
program.
Of note: The Historic Tax Credit Coalition is working on a legislative proposal to eliminate the basis
reduction requirement for the Historic Tax Credit in its entirety. Experts estimate that making this change
would almost entirely make up for the lost value from the new requirement that the credit be taken over
five years.
REQUESTED ACTION
We urge you to support the HTC-GO and companion legislation, which will make redevelopment
projects more financially feasible and unlock substantial private investment that strengthens
Dubuque's historic districts and drives long-term economic growth.
c. NEW MARKET TAX CREDIT PROGRAM
The New Markets Tax Credit NMTC program pfevWesremains a petertielvaluable financing tool for major
economic development projects in Dubuque, including the Historic Millwork District Fe4eFatieR and
FINOOMIONAORA and the Dubuque Pack site redevelopment. WRf9FtwRate4y With the program hag net
h^^^f°*^'' • -•a' s"a*^,; and now permanently authorized under HR 1-2025. communities in tho FR^^^^
"'^'^ can plan projects with greater long term certainty. However, rural states and smaller
communities in -continue to face challenges accessing NMTC allocations at the same rate as larger
metropolitan areas. Enhancing rural statesaccess and encouraging more equitable allocation practices
would strengthen Dubuque's ability to leverage the program for transformational projects.
Whiled the City of Dubuque and its paFtneFs On the private seeteF.
Add he NMTC's flexibility ^f the PFBgFaFn desieab4e, bwEan advantage, its aceeapaRyiRg
complexity'^,Feasesstill drives up legal, accounting, and Community Development Entity (CDE) fee,; ^
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eengia"amee.These i.~ ^•' r^^5 Fed •~^ the ^Fcosts, which can significantly reduce the net equity
available f9F the pFejeet, e fte+ FatheF ri^~ifiGaRtl., PRGIO..gtR 1AFPAFnIiRe the ^ w•to a project.
Streamlining compliance and reducing transaction costs would benefit projects and remmi-~'*'^,; improve
the program's effectiveness —particularly for smaller or mid -sized projects typical in rural regions —and
ensure that make ^ of this t, ~ -~^ `^~'more of the incentive directly supports community revitalization.
REQUESTED ACTION
to s,.IMF., the p m fee the ..RH .ISPF
We ask our federal delegation to support reforms that increase access to NMTC allocations, reduce
transaction costs, and ensure that the program more effectively supports mid -sized community
redevelopment proiects such as those underway in Dubuque.
d. CHILDCARE
Access to quality affordable childcare supports our economy by allowing parents to participate fully in the
workforce. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6770% of children under the age of 6 in the
United States have all available parents in the workforce, and G055% of children under the age of 5
participated in regular weekly care arrangements prior to COVID-19. More recently, especially post -
pandemic. a substantial share of parents report no formal child-care arrangement at all. In a 2022-2023
survey. 35% of parents with children under 5 said they had no childcare arrangement.
In general, today's childcare model is not sustainable for either the parent or the childcare provider— the
cost is too high for parents to afford compared to their wages, and simultaneously the wages for the
childcare providers are too low to attract and retain quality employees. Creating supports for both parents
and childcare providers bolsters our workforce and helps our employers retain employees with children.
COVID-19 has exacerbated this issue.
REQUESTED ACTION
Increase the ameaate#allowable pretax '^"~ that families ~a~ ~'a~^'~ contribution limit for
employer -sponsored dependent eaFe a fit~~~^ ~'~~Dependent Care Assistance Plans
(DCAPs`, theFefaF^ pF9vigg so families with meFe eptienshave greater flexibility and financial
teelscapacity to keep "pace with rising childcare costs.=
•_Dever^^'^^'slat'^^ pregFams to The current federal limit — $5.000 per household
Per year — has not increased wages and benefits F^F ~"i'''GaFe ~ ideF ~e" d4Rgin decades
and is far below the actual annual cost of childcare in most states (often $10,000—$18,000 for
infants).
• Support legislation and increased fWAGIi~^'^F' Mild'^•^federal appropriations —particularly
through the Child Care and Development Block &ea+#sGrant (CCDBGM—that raise wages and
expand benefits for childcare providers to stabilize and grow the childcare workforce.
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e. EPA BROWNFIELDS PROGRAM
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) BF8--- ie4dBrownfields & Land Revitalization program
has — first established in the mid-1990s and reauthorized under the Brownfields Utilization,
Investment, and Local Development (BUILD) Act — continues to serve as a bipartisan success F^•�ar251 Yearr
through the BUILD Act enacted by Congress and signed by President Donald Trump in 2018 This EPA .The
program provides grants and technical assistance to support environmental c_assessments.
cleanup, reuse planning, mob training and werl(farce development to •ev4a.,a4z-e^help
transform closed factories, abandoned gas stations,- and other contaminated sk^, To •late or under-utilized
properties into productive community assets. As of fiscal year 2025, the program has supported the
assessment of 41,871 properties, cleanup of 2,969 properties, and preparation of 175,385 acres for
anticipated reuse. According to EPA, these efforts have helped leverage' °^ 200je s, leve
$35approximately $44 billion in combined public and private investment, eleaned Up 2,261 ff9peFtdes, and
helped make Inn 000' aeFeS ..ady fee F . EPA P .ides apffeXimate and supported about
226,567 mobs. In May 2025, EPA awarded $267 million aRRua44y-in brevmfe4dBrownfields grants
nationwide — the largest single round of funding to date — signaling a major expansion in capacity.
Nevertheless, demand still outpaces supply: many highly raR;<e-dwell-scored applications do not receive full
funding.
REQUESTED ACTION
Congress should permanently fi Rdreauthorize the EPA WewRfield pFegFaFnBrownfields Program at
�^+7or above the historical authorized level 94L j 250 million annually, aA44ee eA or more
and ensure that subsequent appropriations reflect that authorization. Bolstered by recent infusion
of funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, lone -term stable funding would support
brownfields cleanup and reuse, spur economic recovery? and resiliency, and advance renewable
energy-,eRd deployment, greenspace:
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opportunities F,,. lew : and FninaFit , A...eFic... s to build .. ealtl equitable redevelopment.
f. ARTS & CULTURE
Arts, culture, the creative economy, and related educational opportunities are powerful forces in our
nation's economy. The sector drives tourism and arts -related commerce supports American workers - from
graphic and software designers to scholars, architects, artists, performers, and curators - while inspiring our
communities in entrepreneurial efforts. Arts and culture institutions and programs allow Americans to
dream of fresh possibilities and to expand their horizons as thinkers and citizens in a world of complex ideas
and technologies, as well as to contribute to the cultural legacy of the nation. Access to creativity, the arts,
and cultural expression is an inherent good; it also can awaken the potential for a better quality of life and
advances efforts to preserve and give voice to diverse cultures. Engagement with the arts and cultural
experiences allows Americans to fully realize their creative and imaginative potential rooted in cultural
heritage as individuals and as communities. This area of legislative consideration also includes funding and
support for nationwide humanities work through federal organizations such as the National Endowment for
the Humanities (NEH) which supports the research, education, preservation, and public programs in the
humanities.
• In 2=2023, the arts, culture, and creative economy generated over $1.42 trillion in economic
activity, representing 4.32% of the GDP. -In 20222024, non-profit arts and culture organizations
and their audiences generated $151.7 billion in economic activity $73.3 billies in pending by
t+e-, which leveraged an additional $78.4 billion in event -related expenditures by their
audiences.
• The United States has exported more arts and cultural goods and services than it imported
since 2006, including during the Great Recession. The US arts and culture trade surplus
increased from $1521.5 billion to $2136.8 billion between 2021:2022 and 20222023.
• The arts and culture sector supported 2�5_4 million jobs in 2023. In 2022 arts and culture
provided $101 billion in personal income to residents and generated $29.1 billion in tax
revenue to local, state, and federal governments.
• The NEH budget serves as a significant leveraging tool that has helped create an entire industry
of locally based small business and jobs that cannot be outsourced. The NEH estimates that its
20242025 investment in grantees will include $440-79.55 million in support of projects in the
humanities and $7825 million it aviards to NEH's .
0 $1 of NEA dqFeGt funding leveraging up to $9 in pFivate and etheF public funds Fesulting On $500-
ll'en in ateb'
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• The National Endowment for the Arts awarded funds to 1,474 organizations totaling
$36.79million to support the arts in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington DC. A significant
percentage of NEA grants go to those who have fewer opportunities to participate in the arts.
4234% of Arts Endowment grants take place in high -poverty neighborhoods, and 3594 of gFaRts
reachreaching low-income audiences of underserved populations. The majority of grants go to
small and medium sized organizations (with operating budgets of less than $2�2million).
The Dubuque City Council prioritizes arts and culture, identifying access to diverse arts and culture
experiences for all as one of eight 2037 goals. In 2015, the Arts & Culture Master Plan was commissioned
and funded, with the resulting plan adopted in 2016. Since 2005, the City has provided over $5.04 million
dollars in financial support to Dubuque arts and cultural organizations through direct grant programs that
support operations and new projects and a rotating public art program. According to a 2022 Arts &
Economic Impact Study conducted by Americans for the Arts, Dubuque's non-profit arts and culture sector
in Dubuque generates $ 70.4 million in annual economic activity, supports 1,527 FTE jobs, generates $6.7
million in local and state tax revenues, and infuses $41.6 million in household incomes to local residents.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Support the administration's €Y24FY26 budget request of $215209. million for the National
Endowment for the Arts (NEA).
2. Support the administration's PY24 ;..,..,.. sed f-,R RgFY26 budget request of $4209 million for
the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH).
4.3.Support the administration's PY24 'RG•^^s^' 4 ,Rdin^FY26 budget request of $515-.5294.8 million
for the Institute of Museum and Library Sciences (IMLS).) within the Labor, Health and
Education appropriations bill.
-5-.4.Support *nr continued investment in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESSA)
and its Assistance for Arts Education (AAE) program.
6 S.fContinue funding the FY24 $2.2 billion Student Support and Academic Enrichment
Grants provisions of ESSA under Title IV, Part A, as well as to make explicit the opportunity for
the arts to help achieve the equitable access objectives of Title I and the professional
development opportunities for arts educators under Title II.
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nF Educational DragFerr (NIAEP-
8-6. Support the Artist -Museum Partnership Act (H.R.1793) which would allow aFtistartists to take
income tax deductions for the fair market value of their work when they donate it to charitable
collecting institutions and enact 5.618/H.R. 1704 and pass the Legacy IRA Act (5.243) to expand
and strengthen charitable giving to the nonprofit arts sector.
9-.L. Support inclusion and investment in arts in health programs such as the National Initiative for
Arts and Health Across the Military led by Americans for the Arts.
10-.8_Support the collection of federal creative economy legislation under consideration.
Through public policy, these seven bills can collectively achieve a stronger creative sector,
which would drive economic growth and social cohesion, ensuring a better and more creative
life for all:
a. CREATIVE: Bill number: H.R. 917-52485, sponsored by Congresswoman Suzanne
Bonamici (OR-01) --The CREA IVEArts Education for All Act n.,n^n,,r the AlatiA^^'
to leea4supports and encouraees arts ^ ^fit ^and AtheF
arts relate rl inrtit,Riernr Cwrther, the hill nreyides fuRdiRg to uRderrer„e.dedueation and
.^I n pul^tiens by rA of NEA A t fwndinAprogramming for
there respeet:.,e eemm.,n:t:Ar.youth and adults in early learning centers, K-12 schools,
and juvenile justice facilities by clarifying that certain federal programs may support
arts education, and requiring states to make a plan to increase access to ats education
programs in K-12 schools and juvenile justice facilities..
b. PLACE: Bill numbers: HR 6569 / 5.3560, sponsored: Sen. °ri^eh^t-Edward Markey (D-
HI) Rep. Ghellie oinAreeMA), Richard Blumenthal (D-ME—CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and
Jeff Merkley (D-OR)- The Promoting Local Arts and Creative Economy Workforce Act
(PLACE Act) bolsters local creative economies and workers in creative industries. It
amends existing legislation to include the arts, creates new creative economy grants,
and directs funding for creative businesses.
c. CREATE: Bill numbers: HR 6381 / 5.35213759 , sponsors: Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hl�_— F j
John Cornyn (R-TX), Rep. ^bbi Dingell (D MI) The bipaFtisaRj Comprehensive
Resources for Entrepreneurs in the Arts to Transform the Economy Act (CREATE Act)
aligns policy to serve those that make our creative economy prosper. It expands SBA
and EDA loan programs and integrates creative work into support programs.
rl GERA. Dill numbers: LID 5019 / S. 2858 sponsors: Den Teresa Leger r Cernindez (D NM)
Red day ^laeMelte (RCA), SeR. Ben L. n r� ) The 6feative € gReffry
QA.dta'*7;Minn Ant (GERA)a hi paFtisaAA.LFArre hill nth Ari�er $390M i
e-d. PATPA: Bill numbers: HR 47-0721 / S. 297-21121 sponsors: Rep Iudy Ghu (D GA), Rep
Vern Q ehan^n (R r0.. Sen. MaFIE Warner m \/41 Sen Qill LL.Ae4y R T4I Thom Tlllls
(R-NC) , Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH)-- The Performing Arts Tax Parity Act (PATPA), a bi-
partisan bill in both the House and the Senate, updates the Qualified Performing Artist
tax deduction, modernizing a provision that has been on the books since it was signed
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into law in the 1980's so that middle-class arts workers can deduct common business
expenses.
1-2-.9_Support legislation to invest in the country's creative economy and promote economic
inclusion; to recognize artists, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit arts organizations as contributors
to the small business community; improve and revitalize rural, remote, and underserved areas;
and support the creative economy through federal programs and actions. Direct the SBA and
other agencies to ensure existing economic development programs and tools encompass the
creative economy; ensure inclusion of creative fields in vocational education and training
supports; increase comprehensive measurement of the impact of the creative economy on the
overall US economy.
3-3-.10. Support legislation and programs that improve the health and well-being of the military
and veterans' populations through the arts.
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11. PUBLIC HEALTH
a. PUBLIC HEALTH FUNDING
For over 20 years, local public health agencies have been creating, refining, updating, and utilizing their
Public Health Emergency Preparedness Response Plans (PHEPRP.) Before and soon after the 9/11 attacks,
local public health followed the national initiative of preparing for biological, chemical, radiological,
weather, and other public health related disasters and emergencies. Simultaneously, we experienced more
and more newly emerging infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS, resistant TB, MRSA, West Nile, Ebola,
Zika, Cyclospora, E. coli 0157:H7, SARS, MERS, H1N1 influenza, Toxic Shock Syndrome and COVID-19. These
along with re-emerging outbreaks of diseases we thought we had conquered such as mumps, measles and
whooping cough continue to persist along with outbreaks from new sources or ways of spread from
pathogens such as crypto sporidia, giardia, salmonella, shigella, and Hantavirus. Congress responded to
most of these with limited term, disease specific and preparedness planning funding to states, who in turn
funded local health departments and public health agencies through grant processes. As the outbreaks
subsided and healthcare learned to treat the infectious diseases the funding was reallocated to other
priorities or cut entirely. This reactionary, short-term public health funding does not create a system or
public health agencies are ready to respond to epidemics and pandemic, 4wAaAe, and weather -related
emergencies etc. in a timely and effective manner.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Public health requires ongoing funding, education, and resources to prepare for and respond to
public health emergencies, including those that happen at the state, local, federal and world
levels. A robust national disease data collection and analysis system is needed to prepare for
future, outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics.
2. ARPA and CARES money is one-time and specifically for COVID relief. Local public health
agencies (LPHAs) need dedicated, reliable, and flexible funding to deliver on their community
Health Needs Assessments and Health Improvement Plans (CHNA/HIPS) and address the "social
morbidities" of COVID that will be seen for years if not generations to come.
3. Strengthen the Public Health Workforce through increased funding for state and local public
health infrastructure. Specifically, by supporting incentives to diversify the public health
workforce and increase public health and healthcare training and loan forgiveness programs
4. Support the creation of a $4.5 billion mandatory fund for core public health infrastructure
activities at the CDC and state, local, tribal and territorial public health departments. The Public
Health Infrastructure Saves Lives Act would establish this funding to support essential activities
such as: disease surveillance, epidemiology, laboratory capacity, all -hazards preparedness and
response; policy development and support; communications; community partnership
development; and organizational competencies. A reliable, long-term funding stream for these
activities is essential for anticipating and responding to future public health emergencies like
the COVID-19 pandemic.
b. LEAD POISONING PREVENTION
In 2025, significant cuts were enacted for the CDC's Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP),
including eliminating most of the program 's staff and potentially cutting its $51 million annual funding,
which halted state assistance for surveillance, testing, and prevention efforts for lead exposure in children,
creating major concerns for local health departments. The City of Dubuque receives some of this funding
from Iowa Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct lead poisoning prevention and case management
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of lead poisoned children activities. Local health departments rely on the states' ability to compile, track
and analyze data, providing epidemiology expertise on a state and local level.
REQUESTED ACTION
Restore CDC Lead Poisoning Prevention Funding in the National Center for Environmental Health to
continue funds to states, keep CDC health tracking programs, and restore lead poisoning expertise
at the CDC.
c. LEAD IN DRINKING WATER
The EPA's new Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) rule mandates that all states develop plans to
replace all lead service lines within a decade, with some flexibility for states with extensive infrastructure.
Federal funding is crucial for municipalities to comply with these regulations. Additional costs for Lead
Service Line Replacement (LSLR) under the EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) stem from the
mandated full replacement (utility & private side), potentially increasing average costs to $10,000-$14,000
per line, plus expenses for sampling, inventory, corrosion control, filters, and public education, totaling
billions annually, though federal funds (BIL) and utility strategies aim to offset homeowner burdens and find
efficiencies.
REQUESTED ACTION
Provide adequate funding to states and local municipalities to remove and replace lead service
lines.
d. ACCESS TO HEATi H CARE GRESGEN HEALTHCARE —SUPPORT INCREASED COMMUNITY
HEALTH CENTER, NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE CORPS, AND TEACHING HEALTH CENTER
FUNDING
Community Health Centers (f#EsCHCs) across the country have consistently demonstrated the value of
the care they provide. Community Health Centers are an affordable and accessible source of primary and
preventive health care for aea4y 29over 52 million underserved individuals nationwide, including 253,000
here in Iowa. In 20222025, Crescent served 8-,246well over 12,000 patients for a teta' of 29,177 pati Rt
visit. ekiRgmedical, dental and behavioral health care-, with the total showing no signs of decreasing.
CHC's provide targeted investments to boost services and enhance the primary care workforce.
One of the largest factors limiting a Community Health Center's ability to provide patients quality care is
recruiting and retaining quality providers. Long-term and Support Iowa community health center's
workforce to address shortages throughout the state, including investments in recruitment and retention
strategies, training, and loan repayment with a focus on dentists, dental assistants, medical assistants,
nurses, hygienists, and other support staff.
The National Health Services Corps (NHSC) loan repayment and scholar programs are essential recruitment
tools for CHC's and must be sustained. In Iowa, more than 50 providers working in CHCs are current
recipients of NHSC support or have completed their obligations and chose to continue practicing at CHCs.
Additionally, the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) program trains the future
safety net workforce by directly embedding residents within CHCs. CHCs need approximately $20.65 billion
annually in CHC and primary care workforce funding to meet patient demand and continue delivering high-
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quality, affordable care.
REQUESTED ACTION
We urge leaders in both chambers to work together to pass critical, multi -year extension for CHC
mandatory funding at the maximal funding level. We also urge passage of an appropriations
package that protects Community Health Center funding.
Federal grant funding for the Health Center program GUFFeRtly eemes F.^^ ^ ^ ^ needs
reauthorization. Requested funding levels include:
—$49
• At least $5.8 billion OR the Gemmunity W^^'th CP-Rtff< < -Rel (GHCP annually for CHCs for two
years
• $950 million annually for the National Health Service Corps (NHSC)
• $2.1 billion over five years for the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education
(THCGME) program I
e. PROTECTING ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE PRESCRIPTION DRUGS
The 340E Drug Pricing Program is an essential source of support for Community Health Centers, allowing
them to stretch increasingly scarce federal resources and reinvest in patient care. The program allows
health rL-Rtcr✓^^t^^�^•gCHCs to purchase outpatient drugs at significantly reduced costs. Health eenteFs pas&CHCs
then use resources from the saviRgs en te theiF patieRts thFe gh Fed wed ElF i^ PFiGPS RRGI additi^^^'
saYi+4gsprogram to expand healthcare services, help patients access affordable prescription drugs, and
improve health outcomes. The 349b3406 program is not funded by taxpayers. DF g FRaRWfaGW.. ^ ^ ^
red to paFtieipat^ f- ^ ^ a`d in t#e Iowa, resources generated from Medicaid Drug Rebate
0
- dditie—R .Iqewires and supporto patients, ..chiding clinical pharmacy, care ordination and I........
^^ dFI •^ costs. directly impact the state's budget as Iowa Medicaid retains resources from these
patients.
Protecting the 340E Program ensures patients have access to affordable, often life-saving prescription
drugs and CHCs can reinvest resources from the program back into access. As one of the few programs that
is proven to help patients access affordable prescription drugs, we need to safeguard the original intent of
340B.
REQUESTED ACTION
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health eaFe Fefessiens : and these orki ig with s .•1 p , latie Rs
Continue support ens , rftProtect access to the 340E pregramProgram to sustain community
health PPRter'scenters' essential model of care, providing ^nhaneed spFvi^^s to lower prescription
drug costs for patients, and improve health outcomes.
Upheld the A ffp Fdnb.ln
Expanding Access to Comprehensive Care ^^t and expand aeeess to - behavioral health eeuerage
and dental services. Supp^'t faF tL e Ppezyent:nn ;;Rd Piuhl:e Health Fund the ..•.,RdataFy s„na cn.
E
All Iowa CHCs currently have waiting lists for behavioral health and pFevent'^n aGtiv'ties GFeated b
the AGA/or dental services. Investing in CHC infrastructure will expand access in Iowa, particularly
in rural areas or where access to healthcare is particularly dire. These investments would support
expansion of services and physical locations, improvements to technology, and allowing CHC
remain viable employers and producers of economic activity in their communities. Investing in this
model will reduce healthcare costs, keep patients from accessing more costly care such as
emergency rooms, and generate economic growth through expanded iob opportunities,
construction, etc.
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Appropriate funds for capital expenditures to support community health center infrastructure to
expand access to care.
f. AUTHORIZE PERMANENT MEDICARE TELEHEALTH FLEXIBILITIES
Telehealth services help address geographic, economic, transportation, and linguistic barriers to healthcare
access while boosting staff retention and decreasing no-shows and missed appointments. Because CHCs are
required to offer comprehensive services in areas of high need, including sparsely populated rural areas,
CHCs are pioneering the use of telehealth to expand access to quality healthcare services, especially
behavioral health services, to their over 31 million patients.
REQUESTED ACTION
properties in rewnrm-'Ritie-s ammss the
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Congressional action is needed to extend pandemic telehealth flexibilities to allow CHCs to bill
Medicare for telehealth as a distant site and for audio -only under the PPS rate.
g. IMPROVING MATERNAL CARE ACCESS AND OUTCOMES
Access to quality care is vital both during pregnancy and beyond, providing a foundation for optimal health
for years to come. In 2023, more than 400,000 babies were born in counties with limited or no access to
maternity care. Additionally, healthcare costs related to pregnancy are often very expensive, creating
another barrier to maternity care for many women.
H.R. 9049, introduced by Rep. Zach Nunn, would provide grants to states to assist with coordinated
maternity care through maternal health homes for pregnant women on Medicaid, including community
health centers. Research shows increased access to and utilization of maternity care can reduce instances
of pregnancy -related complications, leading to better health outcomes and lower costs to the healthcare
system overall.
REQUESTED ACTION
Planning led zening reform is l(ey to tackling many of the nation's greatest Ghallenges especially
.Support legislation that aims to improve access to maternity care and
improve outcomes.
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12. PLANNING
a. HOUSING & ZONING REFORM
Communities across the nation are confronting the urgent challenges of housing supply shortages and
outdated zoning regulations. With a national housing deficit of at least 3.9 million homes, federal
leadership is essential to help localities expand housing options and choices that meet the diverse needs of
residents. Planners urge Congress and the Administration to champion policies that strengthen local
Planning capacity, incentivize housing supply solutions, and modernize zoning frameworks to support
attainable, equitable, and abundant housing for all.
Economic pressures —including high interest rates, inflation, workforce challenges, and limited housing
inventory —underscore the need for immediate federal partnership in advancing locally driven reforms. By
aligning federal programs and resources with community -led planning and zoning initiatives, Congress can
help unlock development potential, improve economic mobility, and ensure that local governments have
the tools necessary to address housing affordability and availability. Locally led zoning reform, supported by
strategic federal engagement, is key to building resilient, inclusive, and economically vibrant communities
nationwide.
REQUESTED ACTION
• Fund T-H I^'g PRO Provide funding for the Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing pFegeaFn
f a seeeRd yea
• Pass legislation a..IPRO Housing
the P the h9 5iR ,.I., Reeds of sma'WF remm program
•
Fund and finance adaptive reuse housing projects
• Modernize and expand the Low -Income Housing Tax Credit program
• Renew Opportunity Zones with an improved housing focus
• Fund vital federal housing e"aI estooIs such as aI te side .*:..I eenversien
i.vg FkfarseComm unity Development Block Grants, HOME, Choice Neighborhoods, vouchers,
rural housing, and homelessness assistance.
• Improve federal housing finance programs for "missing middle," multifamily, and mixed -use
housing-preduct .
PFayide iRee..tiyes andFp,;R---Fepq fAF I. sal Fp fe.,....Rd ,..,,.achy b ding to dFiye
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New funding and fiscal tools are important, but ultimately insufficient to meet the moment and support
critical reforms alone. Congress should also act to provide policy research, models, and data; remove
outdated and unnecessary regulatory barriers; support key code reforms; and align housing supply and
planning with federal infrastructure, economic development, and energy initiatives. Needed policy actions
include:
• Direct HUD, in coordination with DOT and other federal agencies, to expand efforts to provide
frameworks, models, and analysis for local zoning, building code, and land use reforms
• Create new models for modular housing and remove outdated definitions that limit
manufactured and modular housing
• Streamline environmental reviews for targeted housing projects and support state and local
building code reforms
• Ensure policies in key existing housing and infrastructure programs meet today's needs and
support a comprehensive approach to community growth and development
Incorporate pro -housing policies and local aAd aI he °..,...I...,.,ing in BUF .
r INPRACTDI I('TI RE
safety, ^ reforms into transportation aptieRs, advaRGe equity, and taGPI^
REQ E4T,Q 44PT49-N
•
idaR,.^ ERsuF^ fell funding ing faF C.,f. Streets fee All and etheF key QII , infrastructure, and
environmental programs
Elb. CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROGRAM
The Certified Local Government (CLG) program was established as part of the National Historic Preservation
Act of 1966 to create federal, state, and local governmental partnerships, provide historic preservation
training and technical assistance, and encourage preservation and wise use of historic resources at the local
level.
In Iowa, the Certified Local Government program is one of the historic preservation offerings of the State
Historic Preservation Office, part of the State Historical Society of Iowa, a division of the Iowa Department
of Cultural Affairs. To participate in the CLG program, a local government must have a local historic
preservation program that complies with CLG program requirements. To qualify for or obtain "certified
status", the local government must demonstrate that its local historic preservation program meets certain
standards.
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For the local government, its staff and Historic Preservation Commission, there are some direct benefits of
participating in the CLG program. There is free historic preservation training and technical assistance from
the State's historic preservation staff. Participating cities and counties receive a start-up preservation
reference library for use in developing and administering the program. Cities and counties in the CLG
program qualify for a small, competitive, matching CLG grant program that is open only CLG program
participants. These federal pass -through grants can be used to underwrite all historic preservation activities
except rehabilitation.
In Iowa, the CLG program has helped cities and counties to develop their local historic preservation
programs as a tool to help promote downtown revitalization; to protect, stabilize and revive historic
neighborhoods; and to provide an authentic foundation for heritage tourism.
REQUESTED ACTION
The City of Dubuque supports continued federal funding for the Certified Local Government (CLG)
Program.
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13. SUSTAINABLE & RESILIENT COMMUNITIES
The City of Dubuque identified becoming a more sustainable city as one of its top priorities in 2006. Since
then, multiple strategies and practices have been implemented to make Dubuque a more sustainable
community. In 2016, the City was honored to be recognized as one of the White House's 16 Climate Action
Champions. The City is a member of Climate Communities, ICLEI and the Urban Sustainability Directors
Network and joins those organizations in supporting local government action on climate change and
resiliency as essential for America to achieve energy independence, renew economic prosperity and
preserve biodiversity. We are in the middle of an environmental crisis that most acutely impacts those who
are already marginalized and vulnerable. Federal policies must empower local governments with the tools
and resources to respond to climate and social challenges. We request your support in achieving the
following goals:
• Invest in local climate capacity through annual federal appropriations such as the Storm water
and Drinking Water funding and Green Infrastructure programs.
• Build self-reliant communities that are prepared for climate impacts.
• Support community revitalization by enacting legislation that enables basic sustainability
principles, such as historic preservation, improved energy efficiency, brownfield redevelopment,
and community redevelopment.
Local governments rely on the federal government to regulate in sectors where municipalities cannot. This
is especially true for environmental regulation, and we advocate for robust federal environmental
protections to bolster local governments' climate efforts.
Inflation Reduction Act
Maintain the Inflation Reduction Act and the funding made available to local governments to pay for clean
energy, electric vehicles and green building projects; as well as funding for businesses, residents and non-
profits. Specifically maintain tax credits and elective pay provisions and continue the home energy
efficiency and electrification rebates.
Weatherization Assistance Program
Dubuque, like communities across the country, is striving to increase equitable access to affordable housing
for all residents. Excessive energy costs exacerbate the housing cost burden low-income residents
experience. On average, low-income households spend 7.8 percent of annual income on energy services,
compared to 3 percent of income for all households. Recognizing the increasing cost of energy and the
significant impact this required cost has on low- and moderate -income residents, the City advocates for
continued sufficient funding of the Weatherization Assistance Program and that funds be used to invest in
home improvements wherever possible. By investing in improvements rather than assisting with energy
bills, these funds can be used to fix the root of the problem rather than putting a band -aid on it.
National Energy Planning Policy
The City encourages adoption of a long-term, sustainable national energy policy, addressing decreasing
availability of petroleum, energy self-sufficiency, economic competitiveness, greenhouse gas emissions,
environmental protection, and social equity. This policy should recognize and separate the long-term
development of replacement and alternative energy sources from short-term fluctuations in market prices
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for energy. This policy should also recognize the impact that energy -efficient land use patterns, building
design, and transportation modalities have on the demand for energy.
(Data and Measurement Commented [GU3]: How specific can we be?
The City recognizes the importance of easy, consistent, and affordable access to energy data at the
I'd like to say "Continue to maintain and publish
community level as an integral component of energy, sustainability, healthy communities, and community
the CEJST (Climate and Economic Justice
planning. We advocate for transparent data processes that allow communities to review utility data while
Screening Tool) but also don't want to flag it
also ensuring adequate data security and privacy.
IYKYK
PACE Financing
Commented [JT4R3]: I think you make a very
We encourage federal and state legislation supporting Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing so
good point here and I'd agree. Typically, I'd say
that the costs associated with energy efficiency improvements can be shared by the property owners who
the more prescriptive the better but in this case,
experience the benefits of those improvements.
I'd leave it as general as it is. Thanks for thinking
about it the way you have.
Environmental Justice
We support state and federal efforts in striving to attain environmental equity and justice with regard to
the siting of energy facilities, resource extraction, energy generation, distribution infrastructure, and
energy -related waste disposal.
Distributed Energy Generation
The City supports distributed energy generation systems that utilize community energy generation and
"smart grid" public infrastructure that supports both conservation and energy efficiency.
Smart Grid Technology
We support modernization of the nation's electrical grid that will allow for the efficient integration of
innovative technologies such as renewable energy systems and electric vehicles and makes it possible to
offer dynamic electricity pricing options that can reduce strain on the grid while benefitting consumers.
Advances in metering technology also create opportunities to provide consumers with access to more
information about their electricity usage and costs, which can inform their decisions about energy
consumption.
Research and Development
The City recognizes that in the short-term, oil, coal, and natural gas will continue to be significant sources of
energy for the United States and other nations until other forms of energy can be developed at a scale to
adequately replace the world's reliance on fossil fuels. Therefore, continued focused research and
development in improving the efficient use of these sources while reducing the environmental costs must
be a high priority for the United States. We support expanded research and development funding and
efforts to create and improve alternative and renewable energy sources and the development of energy
transition scenarios for use by local officials and the general public.
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14. INDIAN GAMING REGULATIONS
The City is concerned about the uncontrolled growth of Indian Casinos on off premises (reservation) lands.
The City supports legislation that places safeguards on the growth of Indian casinos.
REQUESTED ACTION
1. Rewrite Section 20 of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), which authorizes reservation
shopping. This means that under no circumstances can a tribe that already has land in trust
acquire more land that is not contiguous to its reservation and use it for gaming. This will put a
permanent end to reservation shopping.
2. Give local communities a seat at the table during the process to mitigate impacts of casinos
proposed by newly recognized or restored tribes. This means the tribe and local community
must enter into a memorandum of understanding where the tribe must pay the community for
mitigation of direct effects of the casino on infrastructure and services like transportation and
public safety.
3. Ban any attempts to establish off -reservation casinos outside of the state where the tribe
presently resides.
4. Allow States to regulate Fantasy Sports and internet gambling.
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15. En�HUMAN RIGHTS
The Gity of Dubuque's Imagine r,,,l.,,,.,,e G^,.,pFeh^^^,.,^ P,^ :S pFemiseelHuman rights in the *h•l^gs-9
community is ^'^^^ . , United States are facing significant challenges that demand urgent attention.
Despite longstanding commitments to fair, and just with the 9pp9Ftw44W_Lccess for peep'^ to have the
realistice of achieving their Yet ecally,regiona' ationally-wmll communities, structural
issues continue to
aiiii6tonn;ilcnmm--n*t6p,;nfrnlnr Arrnsq all indiratersefwellbeing health, education, employment,
hauling; shape outcomes in education, housing programs, healthcare, and criminal justice — FAGP GRR Atrrroc" ^}i" "^' " he
^"OAR^^ AR °A^^ and EgUity and jGiRS, disproportionately affecting underrepresented communitiesaEress
*"rr�c-Rat'nnat'^*'^^. These failings undermine the dignity and freedoms of millions. Fixing them is essential not only
to uphold the principles enshrined in 5WPP9FtiRg 106a' ..,.•,,.......,,..t A40AR E)R advaReing equity, leadi^R with
raee. Federal policies must empower local governments %vith thc- teelq and rpse, irres te a VARCP Facial
e++ty the Constitution but also to ensure that every person can live with safety, opportunity, and respect.
Addressing these iniustices is not optional. it's a moral imperative for a truly fair and iust society. We
request your support through the following legislative actions.
a. MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCING
Mandatory minimum sentences are punishments ordered by judges with
priserrminimum incarceration terms set by the legislature. Mandatory minimum sentencing laws
effectively strip judges of their authority to take the circumstances of a crime into account and shift
IaFaetiee, heweveF, this is YeFy FAUGIR R9t the ease- Judges aFe FneFe likely to levy heavieF sentenees agaiRst
people Gf GGI9F OR geReFal thaR they aFe against whites, while fedeFal PFGI;eG-,t- A-F,; @Fe eveF twice as likely to
the i IRmt d IS44ORRS BR RaGi ai DMsP FMti^^ O the i i c C;FimiRal Usti^,, System, 20 o� pOWer t0 prOSeCULOfS,
allowing prosecutors to use the threat of bringing charges under these mandatory minimum sentences laws
to convince defendants to plead guilty in order to receive a reduced sentence.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support striking mandatory minimum sentencing provisions, allowing judges to apply the federal
sentencing guidelines with individualized reviews that take facts into consideration in determining
the appropriate sentence.
b. EXPAND THE EARNED INCOME AND CHILD TAX CREDITS
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC) are useful antipoverty measures that still
leave too many people out. In the case of the EITC, the beneficiaries are largely families with dependent
children. Childless adults generally find that their EITC is severely inadequate compared to families with
children; childless adults receive @R aveFage of $2 9 up to $649 in EITC compared to adults with children
who can receive up to $8.046 depending on the number of qualifying children
(Williams, 20O)..Internal Revenue Service, 2025). While the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) passed in
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July of 2025 helped those with children, it did not improve benefits for childless adults. The result is that
over 5 million Americans are unable to escape poverty or are further impoverished. As feF the CT-',
although it was increased by $1000 for each child, the 201-7 t;;* lavi that ehanged it excluded tpnr A
m illiew; ef,.,...I(ing families gettiRg the fell i se (MaF. Huang ,& Pai..,.,.... 2020) Expanding the EITC
for childless adults would lift an estimated 5 million Americans out of poverty (Marr & Huang, Childless
Adults Are Lone Group Taxed Into Poverty, 2020). "n As for the CTC fully .^fi uRdabl^ • •^uld havp ^m"^•
pffee# f....yeF 77 FRO"OeR the OBBBA does little for families with low incomes because the phase -in rules
pre-OBBBA are still in place. These phase -in rules mean that even more children frn.. WOO ;^,.^. e fam;16^,.
(MaF. WiRgtg^^ Mee, `n iRdha^ & G^. '^'^` will be affected because their families don't earn enough
to qualify (Tax Policy Center, 2025).
For tax year 2021, the EITC hag ac-crt^^^^ was made more generous on a temporary basis. These changes should
be made permanent and expanded even further.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation to permanently expand the Earned Income Tax Credit and/or the Child Tax
Credit.
c. INCREASE THE FEDERAL MINIMUM WAGE
At $7.25 an hour, the federal minimum wage has not changed since 2009. Because it has not received any
adjustments since that time, the buying power of a minimum wage job has decreased drastically over the
years to the point where the federal minimum wage of $7.25 was worth 3-927% less in 29142022 than it was
in 2009 and 40% less than in 1968 (Cooper, Raising the Minim. -Um. %A.faa to C 7 by 2020 Would l 6f' ni f
x nA.4116,... n.. e.rican Workers, 20 c� et al., 20221
The current wage is not enough to support working families. An individual working 40 hours a week would
only make about $15,000 a year aft up tting them $444WWroughly 517,000 below the poverty threshold
for a family of four (Poverty Guideline 2020) Raising ♦1.e Fni..i...u...wage %ye-uld. lift ever n milli,...people
Minimum Wage to $ 2 by 7020 Would Lift Wages for AS Million American Ana Fkers 2015HHS.gov, 2025).
According to David Cooper (2GI92022) of the Economic Policy Institute, gradually raising the minimum wage
to $15 would increase the buying power of minimum wage jobs and would lead to greater wage equality
between low and middle wage workers as well as li4 wages fAF 33 5 million ••, .', and bringtens of millions
of people out of pove
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation to gradually raise the minimum wage to $3r15 an hour or more.
d. LICENSE PEOPLE WHO LEARN TRADES WHILE IN PRISON
Inmates who learn trades in prison often have difficulty in finding employment when they leave, partially
because they have been prevented from getting the licenses, they need to work certain jobs. While inmates
may learn useful skills and receive training in prison programs, they are effectively banned from getting a
license when they leave. This has far-reaching ripple effects on other issues, such as housing, for ex -
offenders. If they are unable to attain steady employment, ex -offenders are much less likely to be able to
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access housing services. In turn, this can lead to homelessness and a host of additional economic and
societal implications.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that places restrictions on the use of criminal records to disqualify individuals
from receiving occupational licenses for jobs such as hairdressers, taxi drivers, trades learned in
prison, etc.
e. REAUTHORIZE THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT
The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act of 2025 would be a strong deterrent to millions of
eligible voters in this country. Restrictions in that legislation include the requirement to show a valid ID in
order to vote, ending same -day registration, shortening early voting, and closing down polling places in
minority communities. According to the Center for Democracy and Civic Engagement, tens of millions of
Americans don't have a valid driver's license, have an expired license, or are unable to obtain a passport or
birth certificate because of financial burdens or other difficulties. This means these same Americans would
be barred from voting. These issues affect individuals across all party lines: however, they
disproportionately affect Black and Hispanic Americans as well as other underrepresented communities.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislative alternatives to the SAVE Act, including legislation to ;;FnpR ' the VAtiRg Right A,.t
to modernize the formula that determines which jurisdictions have shown patterns of
discriminatory voter -suppression practices, mandate that all voting changes must be announced in
public half -a -year before an election, expand the federal government's authority to send observers
to the polls, modernize voter registration with automatic, online, and same -day voter registration,
restore voting rights to the previously incarcerated after they complete their sentence, restrict the
ability to purge voters from the rolls, reform campaign finance transparency and
strengthstrengthen FEC oversight, reform redistricting with independent commissions, and
standardized criteria and transparency.
f TI IITIlIAI 44SIcTAnIrEEQUAL OPPORTUNITY IN HIRING PRACTICES FOR €YrOFFENDERS
Sturlents yiwth drug canvictiens wili find that they must cemplete a drug rehabilitatien program or pass-
(Leenhardt, 2019). Beyend that, student-,; vihe %ve-re cenvicted ef drug pessessien viill be ineligible for aid fer
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Pparl of the C;p ter for Amprican PFOgFess, "One fifth of the incaFeerated population or 456,000
pmblematie, as b i aek people aFe almest eight times as likely to be aFFested as white people despite Feughl
equal usage Fates. Removing e)(isting finanGial aid F@-_A_FirtieAq An iRdividuals with dFug GAR,ArtieR,; %A.FeAel
Removing the checkbox that asks about criminal history from initial iob applications, commonly known as
"Ban the Box," aims to create fairer hiring practices and expand access to employment for people with prior
felony and misdemeanor convictions. By allowing employers to first assess an applicant's qualifications,
experience, and potential, these policies help ensure that individuals are not automatically disqualified
because of their past. Research shows that providing second -chance hiring opportunities supports
community safety and economic growth by reducing recidivism and increasing workforce participation
(NCSL, 2024). Studies have also found that applicants in cities with Ban the Box laws received higher
callback rates and fairer consideration in the hiring process (ILR, 2019). Ultimately, Ban the Box strengthens
communities, and helps employers tap into a wider pool of motivated, qualified talent.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that repeals provisions that prevent individuals with drug convictions from
receiving financial aid through FAFSA or, at a minimum, support legislation that allows a student
who is convicted of a drug offense involving marijuana possession, without the intent to distribute,
to resume or retain federal student aid eligibility while completing a drug rehabilitation program.
g P""RECOGNIZE HOUSING CHOICE ` O GHEE PROGRAM BASED ON AGTI IAI
WPMVOUCHERS AS FORM OF INCOME
Ensuring safe, affordable housing is the most cost-effective strategy for reducing childhood poverty,
increasing economic mobility, and lifting people out of poverty. U.S. housing costs have been rising faster
than incomes for some time. According to the Out of Reach Report, affordable rent for a two -bedroom
apartment in Dubuque requires an hourly wage of $35.7-517.87. Nearly one-third of all Dubuque
households are cost burdened, with 1 in 4 renters spending more than 50% of their income on housing
costs. Families of color, single mother households, the elderly, and people with disabilities are
disproportionately cost burdened. There are approximately 5300 famiI:..S ..,I,,. vie ld ..
.eet income
^u^hemTo compound matters, in 2023, only 32% of landlords in Dubuque accepted Housing
Vouchers as a source of income. This means that families that are eligible for vouchers may still struggle to
find affordable housing where their voucher is accepted.
REQUESTED ACTION
Support legislation that fully fundsprohibits housing ^heir^ veer"^•s at the 'eve'discrimination and
requires housing providers to recognize Housing Choice Vouchers as a legitimate form of
ity need. Alternatively, support a legislative rider to the fi inding bill that resto es
Dubuque's fundiRg levels to these that weFe OR p!aEe pFi8F to the Feduction iR voueheFs-te
909income.
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