COUNCIL BLUFFS – State leaders are interested in hearing directly from the public on the impacts of flooding and how the Missouri River can be effectively managed at a meeting scheduled for Sept. 9 in Council Bluffs.  The meeting of the State of Iowa Missouri River Authority (SIMRA) is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. at the Looft Conference Center at Iowa Western Community College, 2700 College Road in Council Bluffs. The agenda, which includes participation by Gov. Terry Branstad, includes updates on the flooding impacts and recovery efforts as well as a panel discussion.

The public comment and question period is scheduled from 2:15-3:05 p.m. and all comments will be distributed to the relevant state personnel in the departments/agencies involved in the SIMRA organization for further consideration. Agencies included in SIMRA are the Iowa Governor’s Office, natural resources, economic development, transportation, the Iowa Utilities Board and agriculture.

Those unable to attend the meeting in person can also provide written comments by fax at 202-624-8189 or by email at Christine.bartel@iowa.gov.