News

Here's How Unemployment in Delaware County, Iowa Compares

Delaware County's unemployment rate in December was 2.8%—ranked #27 highest out of 99 in the state. Nationally, unemployment has leveled with pre-COVID rates , measuring between 3.5% and 4% for most of the past two years. Bureau of Labor Statistics data showed a 3.7% unemployment rate in January. Previously, unemployment skyrocketed to 14.7% at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in April 2020, and those rates remained elevated through late 2021. Though national unemployment has mostly normalized, local economies vary widely. The unemployment rate in Delaware County is 0.9 percentage points below the national level, and 0.4 percentage points below the state level. It ranks #27 among counties in Iowa —ranked first by the preliminary December 2023 unemployment rate, then breaking ties by the number of unemployed people. In real terms, it means an estimated 294 of Delaware County's approximately 10,346 working residents are out of a job at the moment. That's 56 more than last month and 25 more than a year ago. Some economists fret another recession may be on the horizon, which would drive unemployment up with business closures and layoffs.

Dyersville Residents: Register for Swim Lessons Starting May 7th

Registration for swim lessons for Dyersville City residents and property owners starts on Tuesday, May 7th at 10:00 am. Non-residents can begin registering on Thursday, May 4th at the same time. Participants should confirm their child's swim level from the previous year before registering by contacting City Hall. To register, log in or create an account in advance. This helps ensure that all participant information is current and correct, making the registration process faster and more efficient. Swim lessons are important for safety and recreation. They help improve fitness and well-being for people of all ages. For more information and to register, go to cityofdyersville.com.

Highway 20 Construction to Impact Travelers

Travelers on Highway 20 in Delaware County should plan for delays as road construction is taking place between Exit 285: County Road X35 near Earlville and the Highway 136 overpass in Dyersville. Commuters and residents in the surrounding areas are advised to allow extra time for travel or to seek alternative routes if possible. This construction activity may impact traffic flow. Further updates will be provided as they become available.

Former Dubuque Priest Arrested for Sexual Abuse

A former Dubuque priest accused of sexual abuse while he was serving with the Archdiocese of Dubuque in the 1980′s was arrested in Florida on Wednesday. Father Leo Patrick Riley, 68, was charged on Wednesday with five counts of second degree sexual abuse. Dubuque police said they coordinated with the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office in Florida to make the arrest. He’s being held in jail in Florida awaiting extradition. Four people reported being sexually abused by Father Riley, who currently works in Port Charlotte, Florida. Police began releasing information about the allegations last year. Riley was the associate pastor of Resurrection Parish in Dubuque from 1984-1986. All the victims were grade school-aged, altar boys at the time of the alleged abuse, according to police. Riley moved to the Diocese of Venice, Florida in 2002 to be closer to his parents, and became a priest there in 2005. The Archdiocese of Dubuque said Riley was placed on administrative leave while the Archdiocese of Dubuque Review Board for the Protection of Minors investigated the allegations. Anyone with additional information regarding this case is asked to contact Dubuque Police Department Corporal Isaiah Hoff at 563-589-4429.

Worthington Home Damaged by Fire

A Worthington home was damaged by a fire Wednesday. At approximately 4:50 PM the Dubuque County Sheriff's Office along with the Worthington and Dyersville Fire Departments responded to the Schilling residence at 308 1st St S in Worthington. A fire began on the rear porch, spreading to the house. The investigation revealed the origin of the fire was most likely an electrical issue with the porch lighting. Damage to the home and it's contents is estimated to be $200,000.00. No injuries were reported.

Man Accused of Killing Monticello Fareway Employee to use Intoxication Defense

The man accused of killing a Monticello Fareway employee plans to use intoxication defense in his case. Court records show the man charged with killing a Monticello Fareway employee plans to argue that he was intoxicated when his trial begins this summer. Nathan Russell is charged with first degree murder, and going armed with intent. Russell is accused of shooting and killing Aaron McAtee outside the Monticello Fareway on Nov. 7. By arguing intoxication, Russell’s defense will try to prove that he was incapable of forming intent. Russell’s trial is scheduled to begin in August.