Ashley Hinson, Republican candidate for U.S. Senate, made a campaign stop in Mount Pleasant this week to meet with Henry County and share her priorities. 

Hinson introduced herself as a “mama bear” who is running to secure a strong future for the next generation. She and her husband, Matt, live in Marion with their two sons, Max and Jax. 

“My priorities are Iowa’s priorities,” Hinson said. “I want to make sure President Trump has a strong ally in the Senate to keep Iowa great and make America great again.” 

If elected, Hinson said her first focus will be protecting American agriculture. She criticized current trade policies under President Biden and voiced support for strengthening markets for Iowa farmers. 

She also highlighted concerns about China, citing the need for tougher trade enforcement and resources for the Department of Justice to hold violators accountable. 

Looking ahead to November’s gubernatorial race, Hinson expressed confidence Iowa will continue with strong Republican leadership.  

As she closed, Hinson offered encouragement to Henry County voters: “This country is worth fighting for. Iowa values are heartland values, American values, and in me you have someone who will stand up for those values and put Iowa first.” 

The Henry County Board of Supervisors met on Thursday, October 2, 2025, approving the day’s agenda and minutes from the September 25 session before moving into reports from department heads.

Treasurer’s Office Reports Strong Tax Collections
County Treasurer Kellie Sloan reported that her office processed nearly $17 million in transactions during September, including $16.4 million in property tax collections. Approximately $1.15 million remains delinquent, accounting for about 7 percent of what was billed. Sloan also noted her office issued 386 driver’s licenses, processed more than 3,000 vehicle registrations, and handled over 600 title transactions.

She highlighted the importance of surcharge funds generated by citations, which currently flow into the county’s general basic fund. Supervisors discussed the possibility of earmarking those dollars—estimated between $22,000 and $45,000 annually—for courthouse security.

Planning and Zoning, Emergency Management Updates
Zoning Administrator Joe Buffington said two subdivisions will likely appear on the supervisors’ agenda next week. He also completed a draft of the county’s new cemetery ordinance, currently under attorney review, and reported initial work on a proposed cell tower north of town.

Emergency Management Director Walt Jackson shared details of a recent search-and-rescue in Wapello County, where his department drones helped locate a missing six-year-old boy that was in a tree.

Assessor and Secondary Roads Reports
County Assessor Nate Milks announced that the state had lifted a proposed 5 percent equalization order on commercial properties, avoiding what he called a “big win” for Henry County. His office is now rolling up 2025 values to the auditor and preparing for field inspections on more than 700 properties.

County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss said road crews have been performing shoulder maintenance, brush cutting, and bridge repair work. Crews are finishing ditching near Salem and completing repairs on 162nd Street, with larger bridge projects expected to continue into next year.

Sheriff’s Office Notes Milestone
Sheriff Rich McNamee reported that the jail has now brought in more than $4 million in revenue from housing out-of-county inmates, marking the halfway point toward paying off the county’s bond for the facility. He praised staff for their work and said the county passed its annual state jail inspection.

McNamee also reported a decrease in countywide emergency service calls compared to the last two years and reminded residents about upcoming trick-or-treating schedules. He said deputies will again participate in community events by handing out badge stickers and candy.

Veterans Affairs, Courts, and Elections
Veterans Affairs Director Roger Pittsenbarger shared that his office handled 301 calls and 76 office visits in September, in addition to outreach at Old Threshers.

Henry County Attorney’s Office                                                                                                                                                                                                                        County Attorney’s office updated supervisors on upcoming court schedules and training events. He noted a judge recently ruled in favor of a plaintiff in a case involving the attorney’s office and the Brady-Giglio list. He also reported the office reorganization project is complete.

Before the Supervisors meeting came to a conclusion, It was brought to the boards attention that the County I.T Director, Derek Wellington has submitted his letter of resignation. KILJ is waiting for a statement from the County Auditor as the I.T Department operates under the Auditors office.

Finally, Auditor Robin Detrick said ballots for the November 4 city-school election have been approved and will be ready for early voting by October 20.

Henry County Attorney Darin R. Stater has issued a public statement following a recent court ruling in the case of Lopez v. Henry County Attorney’s Office (HCAO). While rules of professional conduct limit prosecutors from speaking in detail about court decisions, Stater confirmed that Deputy Lopez has been removed from the Brady/Giglio list maintained by his office as of September 30, 2025, in compliance with the court’s order.

“I respectfully disagree with the ruling, [but] I respect the Court’s order,” Stater stated.

Shifting his comments to the broader role of prosecutors, Stater reflected on his nearly 25 years of service in Henry County. Having begun his career as an assistant prosecutor in 2001, Stater was first elected as Henry County Attorney in 2006 and has since served five terms.

He noted that while the phrase “Back the Blue” often highlights law enforcement, the role of prosecutors is sometimes overlooked. “A County Attorney is the chief law enforcement officer of their respective county,” Stater explained, adding that the nature of prosecutorial duties often creates friction with law enforcement officers and elected officials. “To put it simply, I spend a lot of time saying ‘no,’ and 24 years is plenty of time to build up hard feelings.”

Stater firmly stated he would not engage in personal attacks, online or otherwise, against colleagues, elected officials, or others in the justice system, nor would he be influenced by politics. He cited the American Bar Association Criminal Justice Section’s Standard 3-1.3, which underscores that prosecutors serve the public, not any specific government agency, law enforcement unit, or individual.

“A prosecutor is an administrator of justice, a zealous advocate, and an officer of the court,” Stater emphasized.

In closing, Stater expressed gratitude to Henry County residents for their long-standing support and pledged to continue serving with integrity. “I will continue to serve the public by upholding the Constitution, ensuring due process, and protecting the rule of law.”

Iowa drivers saw a slight break at the pump this week, while diesel costs held firm. 

According to AAA, the average price of regular unleaded gasoline in Iowa was $2.86 per gallon as of Wednesday, down 5 cents from last week and 13 cents lower than the same time last year. Nationally, the average price for regular unleaded stood at $3.16, unchanged from last week.Retail diesel prices in Iowa remained steady with a statewide average of $3.50 per gallon. A year ago, diesel was averaging $3.31 in Iowa. Even so, Iowa drivers are paying less than the national average for diesel, which sits at $3.71 per gallon. 

At the Des Moines Terminal, rack prices as of Wednesday were reported as follows: 

• U87-E10: $1.82 per gallon 

• Unleaded 87 (clear): $2.04 per gallon 

• ULSD #2: $2.35 per gallon 

• ULSD #1: $2.73 per gallon 

• E-70: $2.03 per gallon 

Fuel prices continue to fluctuate with seasonal demand, refinery production, and global oil market trends. 

WAPELLO – Jim Carlin, candidate for the United States Senate, will be the featured speaker at the upcoming Louisa County Republican Fundraiser on Saturday, October 4. 

The event will begin at 5:00 p.m. and will be held at the Briggs Civic Center, located at 317 N. Water Street in Wapello. Carlin, who has been active in Iowa politics, is expected to share his campaign vision and discuss key issues facing voters ahead of the election season. 

The fundraiser is hosted by the Louisa County Republican Party and will bring together community members, supporters, and local leaders for an evening of conversation and political engagement. 

Those interested in attending are encouraged to come early, as seating is expected to be limited. 

Mt. Pleasant student-athletes and coaches will be hitting the streets this Sunday, October 5, beginning at 3:30 p.m., to promote and grow support for local athletics. 

As part of an annual tradition, teams will be going door-to-door throughout Mt. Pleasant and surrounding communities to offer memberships to the Mt. Pleasant Athletic Booster Club. Funds raised through memberships and contributions play a vital role in enhancing athletic programs, providing equipment, and supporting student-athlete success. 

Community members are encouraged to consider joining the Booster Club or making a contribution of any kind. Organizers note that every level of support helps ensure continued development and opportunities for Mount Pleasant’s athletic programs. 

The Booster Club has long been a backbone of Panther athletics, helping sustain programs that benefit hundreds of students each year. Sunday’s effort gives residents a chance to connect directly with athletes and coaches while making a meaningful impact on the future of local sports. 

For more information about the Mt. Pleasant Athletic Booster Club and how to get involved, community members can look for representatives during Sunday’s drive or reach out directly to the organization.