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It’s about the people.

Serving a diverse Central Iowa community, Polk County is among the nation’s most innovative public institutions. We bring together creative leaders, collaborative organizations and key resources to empower our communities and make life better for all people in Polk County.

5 Points of Progress

County Attorney News
Altoona man sentenced to 50 years for lascivious acts with children in Polk, Dallas counties

In December 2024, Altoona police received a report of sexual abuse against Mr. Ertz when one of the victims came forward. When police served a search warrant, they discovered child pornography.

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5/12/2025

Trail Construction at Easter Lake Park
Conservation Events
Trail Construction at Easter Lake Park

Join us for a morning of teamwork, conservation, and community as we continue building a new and improved trail at Easter Lake Park.

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5/13/2025

3 Things to Know About Property Tax Credit Programs
Treasurer News
3 Things to Know About Property Tax Credit Programs

The Polk County Treasurer’s Office accepts applications for the Iowa Property Tax Credit for Senior and Disabled Citizens. Individuals who meet age and annual household income requirements may qualify for an annual property tax credit.

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5/1/2025

Dig Your Natives: Prairie Production Plots
Conservation Events
Dig Your Natives: Prairie Production Plots

Join Polk County Conservation’s efforts to restore our prairies and preserve local biodiversity!

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5/14/2025

Invasive Buy Back Program
Conservation News
Invasive Buy Back Program

Polk County Conservation is implementing a Callery (Bradford) Pear and Burning Bush “buy-back” program for residents of Polk County, Iowa.

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5/1/2025

Trail Construction at Easter Lake Park
Conservation Events
Trail Construction at Easter Lake Park

Join us for a morning of teamwork, conservation, and community as we continue building a new and improved trail at Easter Lake Park.

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5/15/2025

Election News
Historical Election Results & Data Research

Past Election Results and Data Research

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5/1/2025

Trail Construction at Easter Lake Park
Conservation Events
Trail Construction at Easter Lake Park

Join us for a morning of teamwork, conservation, and community as we continue building a new and improved trail at Easter Lake Park.

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5/16/2025

County Attorney News
Former Ankeny Chamber CEO pleads guilty to four felonies

Melisa Ginae Cox, 47, of Johnston is accused of stealing more than $250,000 in 2023 and 2024. The defendant admitted that she used more than $10,000 of the organization’s money for personal expenses and property, and she altered chamber records to hide how the money was spent.

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4/30/2025

Endangered Species Awareness
Conservation Events
Endangered Species Awareness

Every year on the third Friday in May, people around the world join together to celebrate, learn about, and take action to protect threatened and endangered species. This program will identify the factors that cause animals to become endangered and learn how you can help them.

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5/16/2025

New Beginnings: Explore New Spots this Summer
Conservation News
New Beginnings: Explore New Spots this Summer

From groundbreakings for new projects to ribbon cuttings for completed parks, this summer will be filled with new beginnings and new spots for you to explore.

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4/30/2025

Nature Play Day at Thomas Mitchell
Conservation Events
Nature Play Day at Thomas Mitchell

Gather your family together to spend a morning taking part in nature play! We’ll explore Iowa’s habitats through interactive play as we visit some of the highlights of Thomas Mitchell Park.

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5/17/2025