The Mount Pleasant City Council met this week to handle a series of routine items, including grant agreements, audit contracts, and park and recreation board appointments.
The meeting opened with approval of the consent agenda and a minor adjustment to the night’s schedule, with one item—9D—removed prior to the vote.
Surface Transportation Projects Move Forward
Two resolutions were approved authorizing Mayor Steve Brimhall to sign agreements with the Iowa Department of Transportation for Surface Transportation Block Grant funding.
The first resolution relates to the Winfield Avenue project, with an estimated total cost of approximately $1.950 million, of which about $1.450 million will be covered through federal aid.
The second resolution authorizes the city to proceed with the trail project near Greenview, a transportation-related improvement estimated at around $500,000.
Both items passed unanimously.
Conflict Waiver with School District Attorneys
Council members also approved a conflict of interest waiver with Ahlers & Cooney, P.C., a law firm used by both the City and the Mount Pleasant Community School District. The waiver allows the school district to continue using the firm for real estate transactions involving property sales to the City. City officials clarified that this is a formality, as no bonding or tax increment financing (TIF) funds are involved.
Annual Audit Contract Approved
The City approved an agreement with Larkin & Company to conduct the fiscal year 2026 audit. City staff praised the firm for its efficiency and professionalism, noting that the auditors completed their work quickly and with minimal disruption to staff.
Community Updates
Library Director Kayleigh Septer invited council members and residents to the Story Walk Grand Opening at Oakland Mills Nature Center, set for Saturday at 10 a.m. The event will include a short program, ribbon-cutting, and a chance to enjoy the new outdoor reading trail.
Septer also shared hopeful news that the Carnegie Corporation of New York may soon award Mount Pleasant’s library $10,000 as part of a nationwide celebration of Carnegie libraries’ enduring legacy.
Closing Remarks
Mayor Brimhall reflected on the recent city election, expressing gratitude to the community for its continued support and acknowledging the challenges of leadership. “It’s been a long campaign and a long day,” he said with a smile. “I’m very happy with the public’s response, but I’ve told folks—I’ll serve these next two years, and that’s it.”
The meeting adjourned following the Mayor’s comments.