DES MOINES – Lawmakers continue to debate a potential overhaul of property taxes. The Des Moines Register reports that Iowa House Republicans are in favor of a strict, two-percent year-to-year cap with few exceptions, while Senate Republicans would tie increases close to inflation. Republicans have strong majorities in both chambers, largely leaving Democrats out of the process. Representatives from cities of all sizes testified at the Iowa Statehouse last week, arguing any restrictions to property taxes reduces essential services.

CORYDON – The Cordyon Fire Department battled a fire at a petroleum plant over the weekend. KCCI-TV reports that several explosions were reported, but no injuries were reported. Several city blocks were evacuated and it took crews approximately eight hours to fight the flames.

IOWA – Some thermometers in the state may break records today as temperatures climb into the 70s this afternoon, before another possible round of severe weather returns on Tuesday. According to the National Weather Service, some uncertainty remains with the severe threat, but regardless, cooler days will return by the middle of the week. The current best chance for intense thunderstorms is in the southeast portion of the state.