Mayor John Haila sees the relationship between Ames and Iowa State University as central to the city’s future, bringing opportunities for growth while underscoring the importance of keeping the community together.
Haila said the university brings energy, vitality and diversity to Ames, and students make up a significant portion of the city’s constituents.
“Iowa State needs a strong Ames, Ames needs a strong Iowa State University,” Haila said.
That relationship is one part of his optimism about Ames’ direction. Haila pointed to housing, development and efforts to improve residents’ quality of life as areas where he sees continued opportunity.
But as the city considers its next steps, his biggest concern is increasing polarization. Haila said the issue extends beyond Ames to society more broadly, but he does not want disagreements over local issues to divide the community.
“I personally do not want to see our city become fractured or fragmented or splintered into different camps about different issues,” Haila said.
Haila pointed to discussions surrounding a potential data center as an example. The issue is in what he described as a “pause mode” while the City Council waits for reports from city staff and a special committee.
Haila said it is possible a future data center could comply with changes to city ordinances and codes and some residents could remain opposed.
“I would prefer to not see our community become so fragmented or upset about it,” Haila said. “But understanding that that may be the case, the council needs to remain objective, looking at all the information.”
While division concerns him, Haila sees opportunities to expand what Ames offers residents.
Housing is one area of focus. He said the council continues looking for ways to increase the quantity and diversity of housing available, with workforce housing a particular need.
Haila also pointed to CyTown, The Linc and activity downtown as developments that could bring new opportunities to the community.
“Council’s always looking for ways to improve the quality of life, the variety of things that are available,” Haila said.
Cooperation with Iowa State also extends to sustainability. Ames’ October sustainability newsletter highlights a partnership to convert more than 20 acres of university property into native prairie, alongside climate grants and recycling efforts.
Haila said progress may not come as quickly as some residents would like, but he remains optimistic about the city’s direction.
“There’s going to be continued movement,” Haila said. “It may not be as fast as some people want, but there’s a commitment to that.”