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For the first time since last March, state officials are reporting none of the states nearly 700 nursing homes and assisted living facilities is experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak. According to state data, 2,225 long-term care residents have died from COVID-19.
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announced yesterday that all adult Iowans would be eligible for COVID-19 vaccination starting April 5. During her weekly news conference, the governor said so long as vaccine supplies from the federal government keep up with demand, she expects all Iowans to be eligible for the vaccine.
The economy in rural parts of 10 Plains and Western states appears to be on record pace. That's according to a monthly Rural Mainstreet Survey of bankers released today. The overall index shot up more than 18 points to 71.9 in March from February's 53.8. That is the highest reading since the survey began in 2006. Any score above 50 suggests a growing economy, while a score below 50 indicates a shrinking economy.
Sioux City's robust housing market last year has fueled an 8.5% surge in residential property valuations, according to new figures from the city assessor's office. City Assessor John Lawson tells the Sioux City Journal that the increase in valuations for most homes in Sioux City is partly attributable to low interest rates and a reduced inventory of homes. The assessor is not responsible for raising or lowering taxes.