Month: March 2026

Gas prices are easing slightly across Iowa this week.

According to AAA, the average price for regular unleaded gasoline dropped four cents from last week, now sitting at $3.31 per gallon statewide. Despite the weekly dip, prices remain about 30 cents higher than this time last year. Nationally, gas prices are moving in the opposite direction, climbing 14 cents over the past week to reach an average of $3.98 per gallon.

Crude oil prices also saw a notable decline. West Texas Intermediate crude fell $8.53 per barrel this week, bringing it to $90.54. Brent crude dropped $7.25, now priced at $101.66 per barrel. For comparison, a year ago WTI crude was selling for $69.48, while Brent crude stood at $73.78.

Meanwhile, diesel prices in Iowa are on the rise. The statewide average jumped 22 cents this week to $4.85 per gallon. That’s significantly higher than the $3.33 average recorded one year ago.

Tips for saving energy on the road or at home are available at energy.gov and fueleconomy.gov.

The Mount Pleasant City Council met in regular session Wednesday evening, March 25, 2026, at City Hall, approving several infrastructure, development, and financial items.

Council members passed the final reading of an ordinance updating industrial zoning and signage rules, allowing for taller structures — including Continental’s planned 125-foot tall expansion.

A public hearing was held on a proposed loan agreement, with no public comment. The council then approved issuing up to $1.235 million in general obligation capital loan notes. The funds will go toward a new street sweeper and the upcoming Winfield Avenue project, with no change to the debt service levy.

The council also approved an alcohol license renewal for the Mount Pleasant Golf and Country Club.

In new business, members approved a site plan for a new car wash on East Washington Street out near All God’s Creatures and the next phase of the Continental Industrial expansion, both recommended by the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Council members approved 2025 tax abatements for residential construction, offering up to $75,000 in exemptions, and accepted a $9,920 bid from Kinney & Sons Excavating and Grading to demolish property at 403 East Green Street. City officials say the site could potentially be sold to the school district for student-built housing.

A public hearing on the fiscal year 2027 city budget is set for April 22, 2026 at 5:30 p.m.

The council also approved increases to employee health and dental insurance plans, rehired Shelbi Swinscoe as administrative assistant in the City Clerk’s office and confirmed Steve Emerson’s mayoral appointment to the Construction Board of Appeals.

During public comments, residents noted ongoing fiber installation from Windstream throughout town and utility work tied to the Winfield Avenue project.

The meeting adjourned just before 6 p.m.

The council will hold special sessions April 2nd and 3rd to interview candidates for City Administrator. As allowed under Iowa Code, these interviews are not open for the public to attend.

KILJ Radio is launching a search for its next Information Director, opening the door for a passionate journalist to step into a key role at Southeast Iowa’s Information Station.

The position comes as Shelbi Swinscoe prepares to transition back to her role with the City of Mount Pleasant. If you miss her voice, she will be back to greeting you with warmth at the City Office! While her time at KILJ has been marked by strong local coverage and community connection, station leadership is now focused on finding the right person to continue and grow that momentum.

KILJ is seeking a driven, community-minded individual to lead its local news coverage. The News Director will be responsible for gathering, writing, and delivering news across multiple platforms, including on-air broadcasts, the station website, and social media. The role also includes covering local government meetings, conducting interviews, and helping ensure the station remains a trusted source for timely and accurate information.

This is a unique opportunity for someone who values local storytelling and wants to make a direct impact in the community. KILJ’s News Director plays a vital role in keeping listeners informed on everything from city and county government to local events and issues that matter most to Southeast Iowa residents.

A full list of responsibilities and qualifications, along with application details, is available online at work-at-kilj.

KILJ is now accepting applications and encourages interested candidates to apply soon.

For more information or questions about the position, contact General Manager Kadie Johannson at sales@kilj.com or by calling 319-385-8728.

KILJ looks forward to welcoming its next Information Director—someone ready to carry forward the station’s commitment to local news, strong community ties, and keeping Southeast Iowa informed.