Author: Kadie Johannson

Mount Pleasant Community School District eighth grade students in Mrs. Mullin’s class recently stepped outside the classroom to explore local history firsthand in Mount Pleasant.

The students toured several historic sites, including the Harlan-Lincoln House, Pioneer Hall, Old Main, and statues honoring Belle Babb Mansfield and Senator James Harlan. The visit focused on how local Iowans have shaped education, government, and the broader community.

During the tour, students learned that some classrooms in the area have been used for nearly 170 consecutive years. They also heard about the destruction and rebuilding of Old Main, the founding of the P.E.O. Sisterhood, and the many contributions of James Harlan, who served as Secretary of the Interior under President Abraham Lincoln.

One highlight for students was discovering the close connection between the Harlan and Lincoln families. Robert Todd Lincoln, the president’s son, married Harlan’s daughter, Mary, and the couple’s children often spent summers in Mount Pleasant.

Students described the experience as eye-opening, gaining a deeper appreciation for the rich history located just blocks from their own middle school.

The Mount Pleasant Community School District Board of Education held a special session Monday evening, April 27, with a major focus on enrollment trends and potential facility changes. Board President Angie Blint led the meeting, with all board members present.

During the superintendent’s report, John Henriksen provided updates on several district projects and planning efforts.

Kindergarten Roundup numbers show a notable difference between attendance centers, with 78 students registered at Harlan Elementary compared to just six at Salem Elementary. District officials noted those numbers may increase slightly closer to the start of the school year.

Henriksen also reported progress on the district’s central office remodel. One bid has been received from Jean C. Wiley & Sons totaling just over $75,000, with another contractor expected to complete a walkthrough and submit a quote. The district may hold an additional special meeting to approve the project, as officials aim to have the renovated space ready by August 1.

Safety concerns were also discussed regarding the high school baseball field, where neighbors have raised issues about foul balls hitting parked vehicles. A representative from Pierce Fencing is expected to evaluate the site, as many schools are now installing taller fencing to better contain balls within the field of play.

In other business, the district’s finance committee meeting has been rescheduled from May 1 to May 8 at 2 p.m. to allow more time for monthly financial reports to be completed.

The most significant discussion of the evening centered on the possible closure of Salem Elementary beginning in the fall of 2027. To open that conversation, Henriksen reviewed enrollment projections from the Iowa Department of Education showing district enrollment could decline by 182 students, dropping to approximately 1,523 by the 2029–2030 school year.

Board members discussed a range of possible adjustments aimed at aligning district resources with enrollment trends. Those included administrative restructuring, staffing changes, grade reconfiguration, and program modifications. Options mentioned included reducing the number of elementary principals, adjusting instructional coaching positions, implementing traveling “flex” teachers, shifting grade levels between buildings, and reevaluating programs such as Wisdom Quest, IJAG, and Career and Technical Education.

Some board members also noted the district currently operates seven attendance centers, compared to three or four in similarly sized districts, as part of the broader discussion on long-term sustainability. It was also noted that even with potential adjustments, additional steps may be needed to address future budget concerns.

Following lengthy discussion, board member Josh Maher made a motion to close Salem Elementary, which was seconded by Mike Hampton.

Before a vote was taken, board member Kevin Schrader proposed delaying the decision to allow incoming superintendent Dr. Sharon Dentlinger time to review district finances and provide input. That proposal was seconded by Craig Hurd. However, because a motion to close the school was already on the table, the board proceeded without acting on the delay.

The board then voted 4 to 3 in favor of closing Salem Elementary, effective in the fall of 2027. Voting in favor were Blint, Maher, Hampton, and Aaron Williamson. Voting against the motion were Mark Overberg, Hurd, and Schrader.

District officials say the decision is part of ongoing efforts to address enrollment trends and plan for the district’s future aiming to ensure financial stability and an equitable education for all students in the Mount Pleasant Community School District.

View the livestream of the meeting here.

The Henry County Heritage Trust is asking for community support to address urgent repairs at its museum facility in Mount Pleasant—while also highlighting the historical significance of the building and the extensive collections housed inside.

In a recent letter to members and donors, the organization said more than $80,000 in critical maintenance work is needed at the former Saunders School building. Built in 1916, the structure served as one of Mount Pleasant’s neighborhood schools for more than 80 years, with its final classes held in 1998. The City of Mount Pleasant later donated the vacant building to the Heritage Trust in 2008 for use as a museum, though no funding was provided for ongoing operations or maintenance.

Officials say the historic brick building remains structurally sound, but recent leakage issues have made roof and masonry repairs a priority. The organization says addressing those concerns now is essential to preserving both the building and the history it protects.

Inside, the museum houses a wide-ranging collection documenting Henry County’s past. That includes early county and township records, Mount Pleasant school documents and ledgers dating back to the 1850s, and bound volumes of local newspapers from the same era. The Trust also maintains genealogy records and has been entrusted with hundreds of family artifacts, including clothing, plaques, and military service records. Its holdings extend to detailed histories of local businesses, churches, homes, and community institutions.

A major recent addition came in 2023, when the organization was selected to receive special collections and archives from Iowa Wesleyan University following its closure. Those materials include presidential files, alumni records, and a wide range of memorabilia tied to the university’s long history. In addition, the Heritage Trust serves as the keeper of the Van Allen Family Collection and the Crane Family Collection, along with an extensive archive of maps, atlases, photographs, and postcards that help illustrate the development of the region.

Over the years, donor support has allowed the organization to gradually transform the former school into a functioning museum and research space. Improvements have included accessibility upgrades such as ramps and lifts, the addition of restrooms, installation of HVAC systems, replacement of windows and lighting, and the conversion of classrooms into exhibit areas, a research library, archival storage, and event space.

Still, the group says continued investment is needed to protect both the historic structure and the irreplaceable materials it contains. In their message to supporters, board members emphasized that preserving the building means preserving the community’s shared history. The Henry County Heritage Trust says community donations will play a critical role in ensuring the museum remains a place where that history is collected, protected, and shared for generations to come.

Financial donations may be mailed to:

Henry County Heritage Trust
PO Box 333
Mount Pleasant, IA 52641

Or given online here.

Henry County leaders are in the early stages of exploring changes to county office space and meeting facilities, with a focus on improving public access, efficiency, and safety.

On April 16th, county officials toured multiple county buildings alongside representatives from All Makes, a design and planning firm helping evaluate how spaces could be reorganized and modernized before any construction or remodeling decisions are made.

One idea under consideration is the creation of a dedicated Board of Supervisors meeting room, equipped with audiovisual technology to allow meetings to be streamed to the public. The goal is to improve transparency and make meetings more accessible to residents who cannot attend in person.

Leaders are also discussing potential office relocations to improve workflow, safety, and ADA compliance. At the same time, infrastructure concerns have been identified—most notably that current IT server areas lack fire suppression systems, a risk that may need to be addressed in any future upgrades.

Another option being explored is converting the county assessor’s space into a larger meeting room, potentially doubling current seating capacity, though no final numbers have been determined.

Officials emphasize that all plans remain preliminary, with no cost estimates finalized and no formal decisions made. Further discussions are expected as the county continues to evaluate its needs and options.

Henry County Attorney Becky Wilson provided an update on staffing within her office during the Henry County Board of Supervisors meeting on Thursday, April 23.

The discussion came under “other business,” when Supervisor Steve Detrick asked Wilson for an update on recent hiring efforts.

Wilson told the board she has hired two attorneys, pending routine paperwork and background checks, to serve as assistant county attorneys.

Attorney Ed Harvey, who had been working temporarily to address a backlog of public records requests, has now been officially hired. Harvey will work 34 hours per week at an annual salary of $97,500 and brings 27 years of legal experience to the office.

Wilson also announced that Attorney Terri Quartucci plans to join the office as a full-time assistant county attorney. Quartucci currently serves in a similar role in Des Moines County and has 14 years of experience. She will earn $100,000 per year, with a projected start date of May 6.

In addition, Kelly Patterson began work this week as the County Attorney’s Office Manager at a salary of $45,000 per year. Patterson previously served as director of the Salem Crew Public Library since 2002.

Wilson said she is continuing to hire for additional positions and is looking forward to building a full team and getting the office back up to speed prosecuting cases.

Because the staffing update was not listed on the meeting agenda, no formal action was taken. Wilson said she expects to bring the necessary paperwork and resolutions to the board for approval at an upcoming meeting.

Mount Pleasant residents could see a slight drop in their tax rate, even as the city moves ahead with new spending and projects.

At its meeting Wednesday night, the Mount Pleasant City Council approved the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, setting the tax rate at $11.94 per thousand dollars of taxable value. That’s down slightly from last year. No one from the public was present to speak at the public hearing.

The budget passed unanimously including roughly three percent pay increases for city employees, firefighters, and seasonal staff—part of an effort to stay competitive with nearby communities.

Council members also approved a change order for the airport taxilane and hangar project. The adjustment adds just over $15,000 to the cost, largely due to cold weather delays during construction.

In other action, the council renewed local alcohol licenses, including permits for Hy-Vee, and the Mount Pleasant Redemption Center.

The council also approved a new mayoral appointment to the library board. Mike Tometich will serve a six-year term, replacing outgoing member Paulette Shappell.

Looking ahead, residents may notice continued work on Winfield Avenue, with construction expected to ramp up in early June once utility work is completed and city engineers are able to move in contracted crews.

A public hearing to amend the current 2025-2026 city budget has been scheduled for May 27 at 5:30 p.m. This is a routine occurrence, happening once per year.

No one from the public spoke at Wednesday’s meeting. The council is scheduled to meet again May 13 at 5:30 p.m.

The Mount Pleasant Street Committee addressed public safety concerns, infrastructure updates, and future development during its April 22nd meeting at City Hall.

A key concern raised during the meeting involved a dangerous drop-off along South Jefferson Street. Wesley O’Connor, Operations Supervisor and Critical Care Paramedic, spoke to the committee about a 25-foot ravine located just west of the roadway near Yocum Lane. A creek sits at the bottom of the ravine, and O’Connor noted there are currently no barriers or fencing in place to prevent someone from falling. He emphasized the potential liability for the city and the risk to public safety, particularly for children or cyclists. While committee members pointed out that a sidewalk and bike trail exist on the opposite side of the street, O’Connor cautioned that not everyone uses designated paths. The committee agreed to further evaluate the situation.

Residents from the Harvest Drive and South Walnut Street area also brought forward concerns, specifically regarding dust control on the gravel roadway. Mitch Yaley, along with four neighbors, requested that the city share in the cost of dust control treatments. The total cost for two annual applications is $635, and residents are asking the city to cover half. While neighbors expressed appreciation for the recently installed four-way stop improving safety, they said it has not reduced dust caused by frequent truck traffic in the area. The committee took the request into consideration but cautioned what they do for one, they must do for all and they do not have a formal dust control policy in place.

City engineers provided updates on several ongoing and planned infrastructure projects. The Winfield Avenue project continues to move forward, with utility work nearing completion. Officials say the project—done in partnership with Henry County—came in 15 percent under the estimate and will be completed in four to five phases, beginning on the west end near the Agri-Center and moving east.
As part of that work, the city also plans to improve sidewalks between Winfield Avenue and Harlan Elementary School, enhancing pedestrian access alongside the road and bike trail improvements.

On Walnut Street, engineers reported plans to replace a damaged culvert with a concrete double box culvert following storm damage from recent years. Approximately 64 percent of the project, or about $564,000, will be funded through the Iowa Department of Transportation.
The Cherry and Wilson Street project remains in the planning phase, with costs continuing to be a concern. Engineers noted aging brick sanitary sewer manholes will need replacement, along with a water main located in the right-of-way. Discussion also continues around whether to include sidewalks, though no final decision has been made.

Updates were also given on the Goodyear Road, West Washington Street, and 235th Street improvement project, tied to Continental’s expansion. Funding applications, including a request for RISE funds through the Southeast Iowa Regional Planning Commission, are still pending. Plans include widening the roadway and adding a dedicated truck lane if funds are approved for the project.

The committee also discussed the potential extension of Maple Leaf Drive east of Iris Street. The proposal is tied to a possible new industry or regional distribution center considering Mount Pleasant. While no land has been purchased, officials say the project could require infrastructure improvements to accommodate anticipated heavy truck traffic if the development moves forward.

The Mount Pleasant Optimist Club received support from the committee for its request to expand its Avenue of Flags display. The group hopes to extend flag placements west along Washington Street to the Goodyear Road and Hickory Avenue area.

During open forum, residents along Winfield Avenue also attended the meeting to ask questions about the ongoing construction project. Marci Adams thanked the city for the improvements but raised concerns about communication, access to driveways, mail delivery, and garbage pickup during construction. City Engineer Jim Warner said updates will be shared with residents via email as the project progresses. He noted the city is working with local partners to address garbage collection challenges and is awaiting a response from the post office regarding mail service. Warner also reminded residents that the city does not control utility work but expects communication to improve as construction shifts to contracted crews. Once complete, the city will handle snow removal along the new bike trail.

The meeting concluded with no formal action taken on several discussion items, as committee members continue to gather information and evaluate next steps.