On the heels of her annual State of the City of Cedar Rapids address, Mayor Tiffany O'Donnell discusses the City of Cedar Rapids' strategy to balance affordability, placemaking, and workforce needs as the community grows grows. Learn about the City's work on housing, resilience, and partnerships that support community amenities. Learn more and watch the full 2026 State of the City address at CityofCR.com/SOTC. 

Meet the Mayor 

What does it really mean to have a home? This episode dives into the heart of housing in Cedar Rapids. Join Laura Shaw, the City’s Housing Services Manager, and J’nae Peterman, Homelessness Systems Manager, as they explore how the City is creating safe, stable, and affordable homes — from rebuilding after disasters to tackling homelessness at its roots. Hear the stories behind the roofs, the strategies shaping neighborhoods, and the programs helping residents.

Welcome to the first episode of Our CR, the City of Cedar Rapids’ podcast giving you a behind-the-scenes look at city government, projects, and the people shaping our community.

In this pilot episode, City Manager Jeff Pomeranz and Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell, with our host (and City Economic Development and Development Services Director) Bill Micheel — dive into economic development — what it means for Cedar Rapids, why it matters, and how the city plans for smart, intentional growth while improving quality of life.

Hear about recent successes, upcoming strategic projects, and why developers and residents alike are drawn to Cedar Rapids’ vibrant lifestyle and opportunities.