IOWA CITY

Johnson County is rolling out a pilot program that could help expand housing in Lone Tree and Hills, among four other small cities in the county.

Members of Johnson County’s Planning, Development and Sustainability Department are planning to speak about the program at upcoming Lone Tree and Hills City Council meetings, in addition to Council meetings in Swisher, Solon, Oxford and Shueyville.

The pilot program is a result of a Johnson County non-metro housing assessment study, which was completed in November 2025 and proposed a housing initiative for the county’s smaller cities.

“This is going to be the opening of a conversation,” said Jon Green, Chair of the Johnson County Board of Supervisors and a former Lone Tree mayor. “Excited to get the ball rolling.”

Another Johnson County initiative may include a supermarket being located in Lone Tree.

The housing pilot program includes offering low or no-interest loans to Lone Tree, Hills and the other small cities for new construction or rehabilitation of properties.

IT Expansion

A potential move of Johnson County’s IT Department is resulting in a study by OPN Architects of Iowa City at a cost of nearly $70,000.

Melissa Robert, Special Projects Manager, told the Board that IT has outgrown its current space in the Health and Human Services building on the county campus and the architectural study will determine designs for a move to the third level of the building and other options.

Board Action

The Board approved an AI (Artificial Intelligence) policy.

The Board approved a supplemental agreement for additional services by Snyder and Associates for pipeline inspection services on a natural gas pipeline that will be installed in southern Johnson County, including just west of Hills.

The Board approved Homestead tax credits, military exemption and 65-plus Homestead exemptions.

The Board approved a criminal mental health court contract between the Johnson County Attorney’s Office and Iowa Primary Care Association.

The Board issued a proclamation in honor of Preparedness Month.

Next Meeting

The Board’s next formal session is scheduled for 9 a.m. Sept. 17.