Month: March 2026

Iowa law enforcement agencies are preparing for a statewide effort to crack down on distracted driving next month.

The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau, along with the Central Iowa Traffic Safety Task Force and law enforcement agencies across the state, will conduct a hands-free traffic enforcement project April 6th through April 10th. The effort coincides with National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

Officials say the goal is to educate drivers and increase compliance with Iowa’s hands-free driving law, which prohibits the use of electronic devices while driving unless they are in hands-free mode.

The law first went into effect in July of 2025 with a warning period, and full enforcement began January 1st of this year. Since then, more than 2,400 citations and over 1,900 warnings have been issued statewide.

Violating the law is now considered a moving violation, carrying a fine of 170 dollars.

State officials say there are several ways drivers can comply with the law, including using Bluetooth, speakerphone, voice commands, or phone mounts.

The enforcement project is part of a broader effort to reduce distracted driving and improve safety on Iowa roadways. Officials note that the hands-free law played a role in helping Iowa reach a historic low in traffic fatalities in 2025.

Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead, keep their hands on the wheel, and stay focused behind the wheel.

The National Weather Service is warning of high to critical fire danger across parts of Iowa as dry conditions and strong winds continue.

According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, a combination of low humidity, gusty winds, and dry vegetation is creating conditions where fires can start easily and spread rapidly.

A Red Flag Warning has been issued for portions of the state, meaning critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or expected shortly.

Winds could gust between 25 to 40 miles per hour, while humidity levels may drop as low as 15 to 25 percent. Officials say that combination significantly increases the risk of fast-moving fires.

Even in areas without a warning, elevated fire danger remains across much of the region, especially along and west of the Mississippi River.

Because of this, outdoor burning is strongly discouraged. Officials are also reminding residents to avoid anything that could create sparks, including improperly discarded cigarettes or equipment use in dry grass.

The National Weather Service says any fire that starts under these conditions can quickly become difficult to control.

In-person visitation has been suspended at the Mount Pleasant Correctional Facility, according to a news release from the Iowa Department of Corrections. The agency says video visitations will continue as scheduled, but did not provide a reason for the change. As of Friday morning, more than one thousand inmates were housed at the minimum-security facility.

Officials note that a separate unit on the 152-acre campus, which houses about 160 low-risk inmates who work during the day, will continue to allow in-person visits. The Mount Pleasant Correctional Facility first opened 50 years ago and was reclassified as a minimum-security prison about a decade ago, with a focus on preparing inmates for parole.

The suspension comes just days after the facility’s warden was promoted to a leadership role within the Iowa Department of Corrections, raising questions about the timing of the decision and leadership transition at the prison.

We have reached out to the Iowa Department of Corrections for more information on the suspension of in-person visitation, as well as the process for selecting a new warden at the Mount Pleasant facility, but have not yet received a response.

The Mount Pleasant Area Chamber Alliance took time this week to honor the life and legacy of former City Administrator Brent Schleisman, who passed away unexpectedly at the end of 2025.

Schleisman dedicated more than 30 years to public service in Mount Pleasant, leaving a lasting impact on the community through his leadership, long-term planning, and commitment to local growth. He was also remembered as a treasured coworker by City Hall staff, several of whom were in attendance for the tribute.

During the Chamber’s annual banquet, a tribute video highlighted both his professional contributions and personal character. Longtime city council members Terry McWilliams and Steve Engberg reflected on years of working alongside Schleisman, sharing stories of his steady leadership and dedication to the city.

Mike Norris also spoke in the tribute, describing the lessons he learned from Schleisman and the lasting influence he had on regional planning efforts.

From a more personal perspective, Lisa Oetken, who worked with Schleisman throughout her entire career at Main Street Mount Pleasant, shared her appreciation not only for his collaboration, but for his friendship.

City Engineer Jim Warner highlighted one of Schleisman’s passions, Mount Pleasant’s trail system, saying Schleisman was a strong advocate for expanding trails throughout the community and had future plans in mind before his passing.

Currently, Mount Pleasant’s trail system spans just under 10 miles, with additional trail connections expected as part of the upcoming Winfield Avenue reconstruction project.

Mayor Steve Brimhall accepted the honor on behalf of Schleisman’s family during the banquet.

That passion continues to shape his legacy. Following his death, Schleisman’s family shared that in lieu of services, memorial contributions may be made to the City of Mount Pleasant and designated for bike trail development through the Parks and Recreation Department.

The project reflects values that defined Schleisman’s career, including thoughtful planning, community investment, and creating amenities that will benefit residents for generations to come.

The Chamber’s tribute served as a reminder that while Schleisman may be gone, his vision for Mount Pleasant continues to move forward.

At the 2026 Mount Pleasant Area Chamber Alliance Banquet, the alliance announced award winners, reflected on successes of 2025 and took a moment to remember the legacy and impact of former Mount Pleasant City Administrator, Brent Schleisman.

The Mount Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce has named Willy Amos as this year’s Citizen of the Year. Amos is recognized for his longstanding contributions to the community through both his professional career with Hy-Vee and his civic involvement. Over a 38-year career, he served in leadership roles supporting operations in Southeast Iowa. Willy has long been a champion for Mount Pleasant. He has served on the Mount Pleasant Community School Board, the Mount Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and supported countless community efforts that help strengthen this town. The Citizen of the Year Award honors individuals who have made a meaningful and lasting impact on the Mount Pleasant community.

The Henry County Health Center Foundation was named the Community Impact Award. Recognizing its ongoing commitment to improving health and well-being across Henry County. The foundation supports healthcare initiatives, equipment needs, and community programs that enhance quality of life throughout the region. In 2025, its BEDS Campaign funded more than $100,000 in new hospital equipment, including bariatric beds, recliners, and emergency department transport equipment.

Kevin Dameron, Meadow & Main Realty and Auction was named the Main Street Mount Pleasant Volunteer of the Year. Kevin represents the heart of what it means to lead by example in downtown Mount Pleasant. Since opening his real estate business downtown and joining the Main Street Mount Pleasant Board in 2023, Kevin has been a steady and positive presence, always supporting the mission of building a strong and vibrant community.

These awards recognize individuals and organizations making a meaningful and lasting impact in the Mount Pleasant community. For additional information please contact Rachel Lindeen 319-385-310.