The top 10 local news stories of 2016: #10 and #9

(decorahnews.com is counting down the Top Ten Local News Stories of 2016):

#10:    There are some news stories that get everyone talking.  Decorah residents Reed and Sandy Carlson unintentionally started everyone in the Midwest talking about their devotion to the Iowa Hawkeyes.  That's because the Carlson submitted an application to the Iowa City Planning & Zoning Commission for a site plan for a second home for the couple—a home that would be a replica of the University of Iowa's Kinnick Stadium.  (http://www.decorahnews.com/archived-stories/2016/06/13954.html).

While the national news media was intrigued, the Carlsons' new neighbors weren't happy.  They attempted to block construction of the home, but the Iowa City Board of Adjustment took up the issue in October—and their 2-2 vote meant the City's decision to grant a construction permit stood.  Neighbors later filed a lawsuit against the City of Iowa over the decision—a lawsuit that is still pending.

#9:    Construction continues to boom in Decorah.  City of Decorah officials in January approved permits for both a new Fairfield Inn and Suites on Highway 9 and the Water Street Condos on Water Street (http://www.decorahnews.com/archived-stories/2016/01/12550.html).  Construction on both projects got underway later in 2016.  Also in 2016, a group proposed construction of the "Water Street Flats," a three-story, 38-unit apartment complex at the former Farmers WIN Co-op property at 824 East Water Street.  The project is still in the process of lining up financing and governmental approvals.