A battle is brewing in Washington over the Keystone XL oil pipeline. The State Department released a report last week saying it found no environmental concerns with the project, after the pipeline was re-routed around the Nebraska Sandhills. Environmentalists, including the Sierra Club, don't like it. They say it undermines US progress in promoting clean energy. Pipeline supporters say it would create jobs and billions of dollars in revenue.
An effort is underway in South Sioux City, Nebraska to cut down on the amount of plastic grocery bags stores use. Those behind the "Bring Your Own Bag," or BYOB, have a list of recommendations. They include encouraging people to switch to bio-degradable bags, increasing community clean-ups and trying to bring in a plastic bag recycling industry.
Governor Terry Branstad says his health care proposal for some low-income Iowans will not provide the same benefits as an expanded Medicaid, but he says his approach is more fiscally responsible. Branstad wants to get federal approval to set up "Healthy Iowa" instead of pursing a Medicaid expansion permitted under President Obama's health care overhaul.
Sioux City's West 7th Street between Hamilton and Wesley Parkway would get a whole new look under a $4 million project being considered. It includes a full reconstruction of the street and utilities. Businesses would be encouraged to take part in a program to upgrade the outside look of their buildings. Other ideas include sidewalk benches, new lighting and public artwork. Work would start in the summer of next year.
