Here is the latest Iowa news from The Associated Press…

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa lawmakers are set to return tomorrow to the Capitol for the 2014 legislative session, but their focus may already be on the campaign trail, as many will be seeking re-election this year. The fact that it’s an election year means many lawmakers will want to approve a budget as quickly as possible so they can shift to campaigning. That sentiment seems to be shared by Republican Governor Terry Branstad, who is expected to soon announce a bid for a sixth term.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Des Moines Water Works says it’s received a record number of water main breaks during recent extreme frigid weather. The utility says about 30 main breaks were reported within a recent seven-day period. Officials say they have an average of 300 main breaks annually, and half occur during winter months.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Authorities are investigating fires involving chicken coops outside Des Moines residences. The fire department for Des Moines says one fire happened Thursday afternoon.

DAVENPORT, Iowa (AP) — Some residents near a private university in Davenport continue to voice their disapproval of the school’s plans to build a new athletics complex. The Quad-City Times reports St. Ambrose University recently submitted information to its Neighborhood Relations Council over plans for the 45-acre site three blocks north of the school. The group has 90 days to review data on lights, traffic, parking and other issues before St. Ambrose submits an application to the city over zoning.