News

Since 1869, Fort Dodge has had 37 mayors

A total of 37 men have served as mayor of Fort Dodge since William Williams was the first person elected to the post in 1869. The longest serving mayor was Matt Bemrich, who served 16 years from 2010 to 2025. Albert Habhab served as mayor for 14 years from 1960 to 1974. At the opposite end of the scale, R.P. Furlong appears to have served as mayor for just one year. He was elected in 1883, but there was another mayoral election in 1884, which returned Richard Meservey to the office for his second term. Mayors served a two-year term up until the early 1980s. Here is a list of ...

O’Brien Joins REMAX of Fort Dodge

REMAX of Fort Dodge is proud to announce that Brady O’Brien has officially joined the brokerage as a REALTOR, bringing with him a deep passion for real estate, a heart for community service, and a lifelong commitment to helping others. As a Fort Dodge native and St Edmond graduate, O’Brien has long been inspired by the world of homes and the role they play in people’s lives. His interest in real estate began at a young age, driven by a fascination with how spaces are designed, built, and ultimately transformed into places where families create lasting memories. Today, he turns ...

EMS open houses planned for next week

Emergency medical services providers throughout Webster County will hold a series of open houses next week. These events are being held so that the public can meet their local providers, see their buildings and equipment, and learn more about the services. Here is the schedule of open houses. Monday • 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Badger Fire Department • 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Otho Fire Department. A freewill donation taco bar will be offered. Tuesday • 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Southwest Webster Emergency Medical Service in Gowrie, joined by the Callender and Harcourt fire departments. There ...

Former Humboldt fire chief laid to rest

From our files: May 2011

News of Record: May 15, 2026

Police Log FORT DODGE Wednesday A robbery was reported in the 200 block of North 12th Street. Disorderly conduct was reported in the 2500 block of Fifth Avenue South. Criminal mischief was reported in the 2000 block of 10th Avenue North. A hit and run accident was reported in the 1500 block of Sixth Avenue North. An alcohol or tobacco violation was reported in the 800 block of North 25th Street. A theft was reported in the 2200 block of Ninth Avenue South. A vehicle accident was reported in the 300 block of Second Avenue South. A parking complaint was reported in the ...