A Linn County judge gave a West Branch man a suspended five-year sentence after reaching a plea deal last month for enticing a minor.

Dog dies, home destroyed by morning fire in Downey
by Gregory R. Norfleet · News · March 19, 2025
Fire destroyed a home in Downey and then rekindled, prompting West Branch Fire Department to return to the scene on March 13.

Firefighters climbing for lung research
by Gregory R. Norfleet · News · March 19, 2025
Inspired by a local resident and in honor of 9-11 firefighters, West Branch will send four of its own smoke-eaters to climb steps for healthier lungs and charity.

No injuries in rollover crash
by Gregory R. Norfleet · News · March 19, 2025
Driver Patrick Stearns, 31, of Davenport, Fla., refused treatment after his 2021 Freightliner semi rolled onto its side about 3:30 p.m. March 11 near the 251 milemarker on eastbound Interstate 80.

Hills’ indecent exposure case continues
News · March 19, 2025
A Johnson County judge set a case management conference for 9 a.m. March 24 for a West Branch man accused of indecent exposure and an Iowa City Wal-Mart.

Bohannan joins Hoover Foundation board
News · March 19, 2025
The Hoover Presidential Foundation has announced the addition of Zach Bohannon to the Board of Trustees.

Campus news
News · March 19, 2025
Coe College has awarded Karley Staker of West Branch a William E. Shrope Scholarship for the 2024-25 academic year.

Church news
News · March 19, 2025

School menus
News · March 19, 2025
School menus for Mar. 20 through 26 at West Branch Community Schools.

Upcoming events
News · March 19, 2025

City finds $400K owed to it by Department of Transportation
by Gregory R. Norfleet · News · March 12, 2025
West Branch will get a payment of almost $400,000 after city staff found old expenses not reimbursed by the state.

Franchise fee gets 1st OK, but will state stop funding?
by Gregory R. Norfleet · News · March 12, 2025
Despite pending legislation that would ban franchise fees, the West Branch City Council approved the first readings of such ordinances last week.