SIMPCO proudly celebrated its 60th anniversary with a memorable Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony held at the historic Warrior Hotel in Downtown Sioux City. The evening was graced by our respected guest speaker, Debi Durham, Director of the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) and the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA).
The event provided a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the remarkable journey of SIMPCO, from its humble beginnings to its current success. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended and made the night truly special.
Thank you once again to all our members, partners, and supporters for your unwavering dedication and commitment. Here's to many more years of growth and success together!
We were honored to recognize and celebrate the following individuals for their outstanding contributions to the SIMPCO organization and the Siouxland Region:
Outstanding Support Award
The Outstanding Support Award recognizes individuals who have made unique and exceptional contributions to SIMPCO. Nominated by the SIMPCO staff, recipients of this award demonstrate commitment, leadership, and dedication to the organization.
Mark Nahra
Retired County Engineer - Woodbury County
SIMPCO is proud to recognize Mark Nahra for his exceptional dedication and unwavering support through his tenure as Woodbury County Engineer, a role he held since January 2009 until his recent retirement.
Mark was a highly active and valued member of SIMPCO, contributing his expertise to several key committees, including the Metropolitan Planning Organization Transportation Technical Committee, the Siouxland Regional Transportation Planning Association Technical Advisory Committee, the Legislative Committee and the Water Resources Committee.
Mark consistently went above and beyond in his service, offering thoughtful insights and practical solutions to the challenges facing not only Woodbury County but the entire Siouxland region. His collaborative spirit and leadership were especially evident in major regional initiatives, such as the proposed Southbridge Interchange, a project poised to significantly benefit the area.
Outstanding support is not just about individual effort – it’s about meaningful collaboration. Mark exemplified this through his consistent engagement, strategic thinking, and commitment to regional progress.
SIMPCO extends its heartfelt appreciation to Mark Nahra for his outstanding support and last contributions to the organization and the communities we serve.
Bob Giese
Past Dakota County Commissioner & South Sioux City Mayor
It is with great appreciation that we recognize Bob Giese for this dedicated service and outstanding contributions to SIMPCO. Bob has been a valued SIMPCO Board member, representing Dakota County, Nebraska, and previously the City of South Sioux City.
His commitment extended beyond the Board, as he also served on the Metropolitan Planning Organization Policy Board and the Dakota County Rural Economic Development Committee.
Throughout his years of involvement, Bob has been a steadfast advocate for SIMPCO’s mission. He consistently supported our staff, often reaching out to explore funding opportunities and championing initiatives that would enhance the quality of life for the residents of Dakota County. His collaborative spirit and genuine appreciation for the work of SIMPCO staff left a last impression.
Bob’s leadership and dedication have not only benefited Dakota County and South Sioux City but have also strengthened the entire Siouxland region. His efforts reflect a deep commitment to regional progress and community wellbeing.
Today, we proudly honor Bob Giese for his exceptional service, unwavering support and lasting impact on SIMPCO and the communities we serve.
Community Leader Award
The Community Leader Award recognizes those individuals for their roles as community leaders. Nominated by the SIMPCO staff, recipients of this award demonstrate a positive impact in their community, leadership qualities, serves as a role model for their community, show concern for and promote the welfare of their community, and have contributed to a cause or have been an advocate for a need in the community.
Angel Wallace
City of Sioux City Parks and Recreation Manager
SIMPCO is proud to recognize Angel Wallace as recipient of the Community Leaders Award for her exceptional leadership, dedication and lasting contributions to the Siouxland region.
As the Parks and Recreation Manager for the City of Sioux City, Angel has worked closely with SIMPCO over the years to enhance the region’s trail system – projects that have significantly improved the quality of life for countless residents.
Angel has worked closely with SIMPCO over the years to enhance the region’s trail system – projects that have significantly improved the quality of life for countless residents.
Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing initiatives that promote active transportation and community wellness.
Angel has served for many years on the SIMPCO Bicycle and Pedestrian Roundtable, where she played a key role in projects such as the installation of decorative bicycle racks, the organization of various active transportation events, and researching a shared bicycle program. Her creativity and commitment have helped foster a more friendly and connected community. In addition to her planning and project leadership. Angel is a highly skilled grant writer, securing millions of dollars of funding for trail development and infrastructure improvements in Sioux City. Her tireless efforts and strategic vision have brought transformative changes to the city’s recreational landscape.
SIMPCO commends Angel Wallace for her drive, determination, and unwavering dedication to the residents of Sioux City. Her work exemplifies the spirit of community leadership and serves as an inspiration to others across the region.
Ron Hanson
Sergeant Bluff Mayor Pro Tem
SIMPCO is proud to recognize Ron Hanson, Mayor Pro Tem of the City of Sergeant Bluff, as a distinguished Community Leader for his outstanding dedication to public service and regional collaboration. Ron has been a steadfast partner to SIMPCO, contributing to several impactful initiatives over the past few years.
His leadership has been instrumental in projects such as the Safe Routes to School/Complete Streets Coalition, the Senior Services Study, and most notably, the development of the Sergeant Bluff Comprehensive Plan.
In addition to his project work, Ron serves on SIMPCO’s Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Policy Board, where his insight and leadership continue to shape transportation and planning efforts across the Siouxland region.
Ron’s commitment to his community is evident in every aspect of his work. He not only brings forward thoughtful, forward-looking ideas but also plays an active role in turning those ideas into action. His vision is clear: to make Sergeant Bluff a vibrant and thriving place to live.
Always looking ahead, Ron seeks out opportunities to strengthen the community and attract valuable resources. His proactive mindset and collaborative spirit make him a true asset—not only to Sergeant Bluff, but to the entire Siouxland region.
SIMPCO is honored to recognize Ron Hanson for his leadership, dedication, and lasting contributions to community development.
Jeff Dooley
City Administrator of North Sioux City
SIMPCO is proud to honor Jeff Dooley, City Administrator for the City of North Sioux City, with the Community Leader Award in recognition of his outstanding leadership, service, and long-term commitment to the region.
Since take on this role, Jeff has demonstrated exceptional dedication to the growth and well-being of North Sioux City.
His leadership has been instrumental in in advancing key priorities such as housing, transportation, economic development and overall quality of life of life for residents.
Jeff brings valuable expertise in disaster recovery and is currently leading efforts to secure funding and support to update the city’s 1976 flood mitigation plan for the Big Sioux River – a critical initiative for the safety and resilience of the community. At the same time, he continues to manage the daily operations of city government with professionalism and vision.
Beyond his local responsibilities, Jeff actively contributes to regional planning efforts. He serves on SIMPCO’s Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Transportation Technical Committee and participates in the SIMPCO Water Resource Committee, where his insights hep shape infrastructure and environmental strategies across the Siouxland region.
Jeff’s long-standing commitment to the communities of southern Union County, South Dakota, has resulted in meaningful, lasting contributions that directly benefit residents. His collaborative spirit and forward-thing approach make him a true asset to the region.
SIMPCO is proud to recognize Jeff Dooley as a Community Leader whose work continues to make a positive and lasting impact.
Community & County of the Year Award
Each year, SIMPCO presents the Community and/or County of the Year Award to recognize outstanding achievements in community and economic development. This award honors both a community and a county that have demonstrated exceptional progress in areas such as economic growth, quality of life, housing, and overall community development.
Nominated by SIMPCO staff, the recipients exemplify innovation, collaboration, and dedication to improving their regions. The award is supported not only by SIMPCO staff but also by elected officials and members of the public, reflecting a broad base of recognition and appreciation for the recipients' efforts.
City of Sioux City
SIMPCO is proud to present the 2025 Community of the Year Award to a city that continues to lead with vision, innovation, and strong regional collaboration—the City of Sioux City. Over the past year, Sioux City has made tremendous progress across multiple fronts.
The transformation of the Missouri Riverfront through the Chris Larsen Park Redevelopment has created a vibrant public space with event areas, a splash pad, fitness stations, and more—turning a once-vacant site into a destination for families and visitors alike.
In housing, Sioux City continues to lead with innovative solutions. The city secured funding from the Iowa Finance Authority to develop a housing project for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Additional projects, like the redevelopment of historic buildings into residential units, are helping to expand housing options and revitalize historic spaces. Additionally, the city is seeing new construction across multiple neighborhoods, where modern townhomes and single-family homes are helping meet growing demand.
On the economic development front, the city has successfully blended historic preservation with modern growth. The restoration of the Warrior Hotel and Davidson Building has boosted tourism, created jobs, and breathing new life into the city’s urban core.
In transportation, Sioux City and SIMPCO recently adopted the 2025 Transportation Safety Action Plan, funded by a federal Safe Streets and Roads for All grant. This plan outlines strategies to reduce roadway fatalities and improve safety for drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, and transit users. The city is also working with SIMPCO on the South Lakeport Street Corridor Study, aimed at reducing congestion and enhancing mobility and safety along one of the city’s busiest corridors.
But what truly sets Sioux City apart is its commitment to collaboration. The city has worked closely with SIMPCO on a number of initiatives—leveraging regional planning, transportation coordination, and development support to bring these projects to life. This partnership has helped align local goals with regional strategies, ensuring long-term success and sustainability.
These accomplishments are the result of a shared vision—driven by dedicated city staff, elected officials, and engaged residents who work together to build a stronger, more vibrant community.
On behalf of SIMPCO, it is my great pleasure to present the 2025 Community of the Year Award to the City of Sioux City. Congratulations—and thank you for your leadership, your innovation, and your continued partnership with SIMPCO in shaping the future of our region.
Woodbury County
We are thrilled to announce that the 2025 County of the Year Award goes to Woodbury County, Iowa.
Woodbury County has demonstrated exceptional commitment to collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth.
A standout achievement is its partnership with SIMPCO on the County-wide Comprehensive Plan update—a visionary roadmap shaped by community input and data-driven insights. This plan exemplifies smart planning that positions the county for long-term success.
What truly sets Woodbury County apart is its spirit of cooperation. From the long-anticipated progress on the Southbridge Interchange—a SIMPCO priority since 2005—to the opening of the county’s first roundabout in partnership with the City of Sioux City, teamwork has been at the heart of every milestone.
The county’s dedication to economic development is equally commendable. The Woodbury County Board of Supervisors provided critical funding to support a new childcare facility in Moville, addressing a vital community need. In Salix, the county worked hand-in-hand with local leaders to tackle stormwater drainage challenges, showcasing its responsiveness and problem-solving approach.
Additionally, Woodbury County Emergency Management continues to enhance disaster preparedness and response, strengthening the county’s overall resilience.
On behalf of SIMPCO, it is our great pleasure to present the 2025 County of the Year Award to Woodbury County, Iowa. Congratulations, and thank you for your leadership, your vision, and your unwavering commitment to shaping a stronger, more connected region.
Ron Rapp Award
In memory of Ron Rapp, the SIMPCO Board of Directors approved establishing an award to honor long-standing members who have served on the Board of Directors or have supported the organization. Nominated by the SIMPCO Executive/Finance Committee, recipients of this award have shown outstanding leadership and support to the organization.
Gary Bogenrief
Former Council Member of North Sioux City
This year, we are proud to present the Ron Rapp Award to Gary Bogenrief.
Gary Bogenrief, a former member of the North Sioux City Council, has been a dedicated advocate for regional collaboration and progress.
Since 2021, Gary has served on the SIMPCO Executive/Finance Committee, the Board of Directors, and the Water Resources Committee. In 2024, he was appointed as an alternate representative for SIMPCO on the Missouri River Recovery Implementation Committee (MRRIC).
Throughout his tenure, Gary has provided invaluable insight and leadership, consistently championing initiatives that benefit not only North Sioux City but the entire tri-state Siouxland region. His commitment to SIMPCO’s mission and his belief in the power of regional cooperation have made a lasting impact.
We thank Gary for his service and are honored to recognize his contributions with the 2025 Ron Rapp Award.
Skip Meisner Golden Carp Award
The Skip Meisner Golden Carp Award is given to a SIMPCO representative chosen for their outstanding community and SIMPCO leadership and participation. SIMPCO founder and previous Executive Director, Skip Meisner chose the carp as its award aphorism because the carp, while not the most sought-after fish in the world, is considered to be a sign of achievement and survival.
Emily Guthrie
SIMPCO Executive Assistant
Emily Guthrie is the recipient of the 2025 Skip Meisner Golden Carp Award. This distinguished honor is awarded annually to a SIMPCO representative or staff member who exemplifies exceptional leadership, dedication, and service to both SIMPCO and the broader Siouxland community.
Named in memory of SIMPCO’s founding Executive Director, Skip Meisner, the Golden Carp Award symbolizes resilience, strength, and the ability to thrive in challenging environments—qualities that Skip admired and that continue to guide SIMPCO’s mission today.
“As the most recent recipient of this award, it is my honor to recognize someone who truly embodies the spirit of the Golden Carp,” said Keith Radig, past SIMPCO Board Member. “Emily Guthrie’s contributions to SIMPCO over the past decade have been nothing short of extraordinary.”
Emily joined SIMPCO in 2014 and quickly became a familiar and welcoming presence at the front desk. Over the years, she has grown into a vital member of the organization, recently being promoted to Executive Assistant. In this role, she has taken on strategic responsibilities supporting SIMPCO’s marketing efforts and housing programs.
Behind the scenes, Emily is the creative force behind SIMPCO’s newsletters, social media, and public communications—ensuring that communities across the region stay informed and engaged. Beyond communications, she works directly with clients in SIMPCO’s housing programs, offering guidance with compassion, professionalism, and a deep commitment to public service.
“Emily’s kindness, creativity, and tireless dedication have made a lasting impact on our organization and the people we serve,” said Michelle Bostinelos, Executive Director of SIMPCO. “She is a role model for all of us.”
SIMPCO congratulates Emily Guthrie on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for her continued service in the Siouxland region.
60 Years of SIMPCO
Join us as we celebrate six decades of regional collaboration, planning, and progress across Northwest Iowa, Northeast Nebraska, and Southeast South Dakota. This video recaps the remarkable journey of SIMPCO over the past 60 years, highlighting key milestones, projects, and the dedicated efforts that have shaped our communities. Watch and discover how SIMPCO has fostered growth, connectivity, and a brighter future for our region.
We extend our gratitude to Antidote 71 for their exceptional work in creating this video.
Click Image to Play Video 📽️
2025 Summer Trailblazer Challenge
May 23 - September 1
Get outside this summer to explore Siouxland trails and the many landmarks along the way!
For every trail segment or landmark you visit, earn one raffle entry. At the end of the summer, there will be a raffle to win prizes donated by local businesses! Participants will also have access to discounts from sponsoring businesses along the trail system.
To sign up, download the GooseChase app on your phone. Participation is FREE! Use Join Code ZSMIFZ to get started.
Contact SIMPCO Regional Planner, Nathan Kistner with questions at nathan@simpco.org.
South Sioux City Unveils State’s First Plastic Road
SIMPCO staff joined the celebration as Nebraska’s first plastic-paved road was unveiled near Siouxland Freedom Park—a project two years in the making. The new stretch on Foundry Road used two million recycled plastic bags, showcasing a bold step toward sustainability.
“This is just the start for us,” said Mayor Koch.
You can help keep the momentum going by donating your plastic bags at any Goodwill location across Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Minnesota.
2025 Iowa Downtown Conference
August 5-6 | Muscatine
The Iowa Downtown Conference is a two-day event celebrating historic downtown districts and neighborhood commercial areas. Open to anyone interested in downtown economic development, the conference unites leaders, advocates, and enthusiasts to learn from industry experts about growing and sustaining vibrant downtown districts.
Connect with nearly 1,000 housing professionals to explore how housing drives economic opportunity and supports thriving families, communities, and businesses.
Whether you're working in affordable housing, real estate development, finance, local government, or community planning, this conference offers valuable tools, connections, and inspiration to help you make a lasting impact.
Iowa League of Cities: Annual Conference & Exhibit
Sept 17-19 | Des Moines
Registration is open for the Iowa League of Cities Annual Conference and Exhibit. Held at the Community Choice Convention Center in Des Moines, this event is the league's largest educational offering of the year, attracting hundreds of city officials from across Iowa to connect, share, and learn.
Join us in recognizing the impact of social media on communication and community building. Social Media Day is a great opportunity to connect with others, share your stories, and engage with your communities online.
Iowa Healthiest State Initiative
July 5-2-1-0 Feature | Limit Recreational Screen Time
The Healthiest State Initiative encourages families to enjoy a "Screen Free Summer" by limiting recreational screen time. Kids and teens often spend several hours a day on screens, which can lead to various health issues. Instead, the initiative suggests engaging in activities like playing outside, reading, and family bike rides. Setting healthy screen boundaries, such as no screens during meals or before bed, can help promote a healthier lifestyle.
Supporting Local: Shop Small, Shop Regional!
Check out these innovative platforms that help small businesses across our region thrive. Whether you're shopping for unique gifts, local foods, or handmade goods, these online marketplaces make it easy to support entrepreneurs close to home:
Shop Iowa – A one-stop shop for Iowa-made products from businesses across the state.
Buy Nebraska – Powered by GROW Nebraska, this platform features thousands of locally made items from Nebraska entrepreneurs.
Shop Where I Live – A growing network of local online marketplaces, including some South Dakota communities.
Every purchase helps strengthen our local economies and support the hardworking small business owners who make our region unique.
South Dakota Community Access Road Grants (SD) – This program is a means for small towns to pave or reconstruct important local roads such as their Main Street. For more information, click here. Applications are due by July 15, 2025.
South Dakota Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) - Uses federal transportation funds designated by Congress for specific activities that enhance the inter-modal transportation system and provide safe alternative transportation options. For more information, click here. Letters of intent are due by July 15 with applications due in October.
South Dakota Agri-Business Access Grant (SD) – This program is a means for local governments to address road needs associated with new agri-business, such as ethanol plants, large-scale elevators, etc. In many cases, these new agri-businesses create additional truck traffic that an existing road may not be built to take. For more information, click here. Applications are due by July 15, 2025.
South Dakota Industrial Park Road Grants (SD) – This program is a means to assist cities and towns that have a new industry coming to their community and need new or expanded access to the industry. For more information, click here. Applications are due by July 15, 2025.
Destination Iowa Fund – Projects will attract visitors and new residents to the state and bolster the quality of life in Iowa’s rural communities. The aim is to make strategic investments that yield lasting results and create a positive ripple effect throughout the community. These projects will not only address immediate needs but also contribute to long-term sustainability and enhance the overall quality of life for residents. For more information, click here. Pre-applications are due between July 22, 2024-May 14, 2025. Applications are due by January 15, 2025 and/or July 15, 2025.
Iowa CDBG Water and Sewer Fund – Funds awarded through this annual competitive program assist cities and counties with projects such as sanitary sewer system improvements, water system improvements, water, and wastewater treatment facility projects, storm sewer projects related to sanitary sewer system improvements and rural water connections. For more information, click here. Applications are due by January 1, May 1, and August 1, 2025.
IEDA Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant - Supports projects focused on downtown revitalization and streetscape improvements such as energy-efficient streetlights and traffic signals; energy-efficient exterior lighting for buildings and public spaces; and the installation of electric vehicle charging stations. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 1, 2025.
FHWA Bridge Investment Program – The Bridge Investment Program is a competitive, discretionary program that focuses on existing bridges to reduce the overall number of bridges in poor condition, or in fair condition at risk of falling into poor condition. It also expands applicant eligibilities to create opportunity for all levels of government to be direct recipients of program funds. Alongside states and federal lands management agencies, metropolitan planning organizations and local and tribal governments can also apply directly to FHWA, making it easier to advance projects at the local level that meet community needs. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 1, 2025.
Iowa Grid Resilience Fund - Works to increase electric grid reliability to reduce the frequency and duration of outages. Some eligible projects include weatherization technologies; fire-resistant systems; undergrounding electrical equipment; vegetation management; installation of microgrids and battery storage; hardening of power lines and substations; and workforce training. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 15, 2025.
Iowa Traffic Safety Improvement Program (IA) – Funds to cities and counties for roadway safety improvements, research, studies, or public information initiatives. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 15, 2025.
Iowa REAP County Conservation Grant (IA) – This program is available to counties, only if they are dedicating at least 22¢ per $1,000 of the assessed value of taxable property in the county for county conservation purposes, through competitive grants. This money is available to counties for land easements or acquisition, capital improvements, stabilization and protection of resources, and environmental education, etc. For more information, click here. Applications are due August 15, 2025.
Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) (NE) - The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) is a federal program that supports outdoor recreation in Nebraska by providing funding to eligible state and local government entities for acquiring, developing, and renovating parks, recreation areas and public lands. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 22, 2025.
Recreational Trails Program (RTP) (NE) - The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) in Nebraska is part of a federal grant program that provides funding to states to develop and maintain recreational trails for a variety of activities, such as hiking, biking, horseback riding and off-road vehicle use. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 22, 2025.
Community Forestry Grant Program (IA) – The Iowa Legislature appropriated state infrastructure funds to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (Iowa DNR) to be used for a community-based tree planting program for derecho recovery tree planting. The Community Forestry Grant Program provides reimbursable grants to be used to purchase and plant trees suitable to Iowa. Award recipients in counties impacted by the August 10, 2020, derecho will be awarded state infrastructure funds in reimbursable funds. An approximate total of $146,500 in funds are available. Award recipients will be reimbursed $500 to $10,000 to buy trees and materials. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 22, 2025.
MRHD Impact Match Grant – The Impact Match Grants Program provides awards ranging from $25,000 to $250,000 for one year to support larger-scale projects or programs. MRHD awards grants in this program to projects that create a significant impact in addressing the needs of the community and the organization’s work. This grant is not renewable and requires cost-sharing or a match. For more information, click here. Pre-application is due by August 31, 2025.
2024 Iowa Leadership Bootcamp Grant – The Iowa Leadership Bootcamp Grant program provides training, mentorship, and funding to communities and regions initiating leadership programs. If Iowa wants communities to survive and thrive, it will take strong local leadership. Many communities have created effective leadership programs, as have various Iowa industries. For more information, click here. Applications are due by September 1, 2025.
Siouxland Interstate Metropolitan Planning Council (SIMPCO) & Siouxland Regional Transit System (SRTS), 6401 Gordon Drive, Sioux City, Iowa 51106, 712-279-6286
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