THE IOWA DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS was messy, but revealing. Young voters voted for the oldest candidate, Bernie Sanders (78), and older voters preferred the youngest candidate, Pete Buttigieg (38). Given that Iowa is not a typical U.S. state, as far as demographics go, maybe the pattern will not be repeated in other state primaries. Still, the Iowa caucus results are interesting considering the projected demographic patterns for the 2020-2030 decade.

With preparations underway for the May 2 water district, hospital board, school board, and city elections, four candidates have filed for places on the ballots. Nine open seats are available, altogether.

Canadian City Manager Joe Jarosek announced this week that TxDOT has released a June 1, 2020, start date for its US 60/83 Utility Relocation Project. The project is expected to take a full year to complete. Jarosek said he expects TxDOT will hold a pre-construction conference to explain the work sequence, and that as soon as he has more definitive information, he will pass it on. The utility relocation project involves the relocation of municipal water and sewer lines to the highway right-of-way, in preparation for the roadway rehabilitation project, which will extend from Birch to Main Streets in Canadian. Bid letting for that project is slated for January 2022. The rehabilitation project’s scope includes replacing the existing pavement with concrete, as well as construction of sidewalks, pedestrian accommodations, and improved mobility and accessibility to area motorists.

The Texas Tribune reported last week that all four suspected cases of coronavirus in Texas have tested negative—a report confirmed by public officials. More cases are expected, but U.S. health officials said risk to the general public remains low, while vigilance remains high.