Mount Pleasant Mourns the Loss of Longtime City Administrator Brent Schleisman

By Shelbi Swinscoe · Monday, December 15th, 2025 at 11:20 am CDT

The City of Mount Pleasant is mourning the sudden and unexpected loss of longtime City Administrator Brent Schleisman, who served the community for more than 30 years. His leadership and commitment to public service helped guide the city through decades of growth, change, and challenge.

As City Administrator, Schleisman worked closely with the mayor and City Council to carry out policies and programs enacted by elected officials. He directed and coordinated the work of city departments and employees to ensure city services were delivered efficiently and effectively. His responsibilities included overseeing major projects, managing city finances, and developing the information needed for informed decision-making by city leadership.

Schleisman worked with many of the same City Council members over long periods of time, some serving alongside him for much of his tenure. That continuity fostered strong collaboration, institutional knowledge, and stability within city government.

The Mount Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce acknowledged Schleisman’s role as a visionary leader whose work continues to shape the community. He was instrumental in projects such as East Lake Park, the West Gate area, the downtown Clock Tower Corner, the Crossroads Industrial Park and the renovation of the the former Mount Pleasant High School a building that now houses the City offices, Mount Pleasant Public Library and the Heatilator Performing Arts Center.

Through close collaboration with partners such as Main Street Mount Pleasant, the Southeast Iowa Regional Planning Commission, the Mount Pleasant Area Development Commission, and Henry County, Schleisman helped build partnerships that fostered growth and development across the region.

He was known for his careful stewardship of public resources and his ability to find practical solutions during challenging times. His approach to leadership emphasized resilience, adaptability, and moving forward even in moments of loss or difficulty.

In 2021, following the sudden passing of longtime City Clerk Florence Olomon, Schleisman spoke openly about how deeply the loss was felt within City Hall. He acknowledged the difficulty of losing a colleague, while emphasizing the importance of supporting one another and continuing forward together. Those words reflected not only his leadership style, but also his care for the people behind the work, and now stand as a fitting reminder of the values he carried throughout his career.

Schleisman’s passing marks the second significant loss at City Hall in the past five years, a reality that has been deeply felt by city staff and leadership. His absence leaves a notable void, both professionally and personally, within the organization he helped guide for more than a generation.

Mount Pleasant will continue to see his legacy in the city he helped build and maintain through decades of service. Information regarding services or memorial arrangements will be shared as it becomes available.

The Mount Pleasant Community School District Board of Education has named three finalists in its search for the district’s next superintendent.

By Shelbi Swinscoe · Friday, December 12th, 2025 at 9:04 am CDT

The Mount Pleasant Community School District Board of Education has named three finalists in its search for the district’s next superintendent.

Following a review process conducted with Grundmeyer Leader Services, the board selected Dr. Sharon Dentlinger, Ken Kasper, and Derek Philips as finalists for the position.

Dr. Dentlinger currently serves as an assistant professor of practice and superintendent program coordinator at the University of Northern Iowa, where she prepares aspiring superintendents and leads strategic planning efforts. She also serves as director of special education for the Knoxville Community School District and previously worked as superintendent and curriculum director for the Interstate 35 Community School District.

Kasper is the current superintendent for the Garner Hayfield Ventura and Rudd Rockford Marble Rock Community School Districts. During his tenure, district academic ratings improved and student participation in advanced coursework and career programs expanded. His background also includes roles as a principal, assistant principal, and science teacher in several Iowa districts.

Philips serves as principal of Davis County High School in Bloomfield, where he oversees staff and students in grades nine through twelve. His experience includes implementing instructional feedback systems, strengthening professional development, and improving staff retention. He has also previously served as superintendent of the Pekin Community School District.

Formal interviews with each finalist are scheduled for Tuesday, December 16. The board plans to discuss the candidates and make a final decision following the interviews.

The selected superintendent is expected to begin leading the district on July 1, 2026.

Attached is the announcement from Mt. Pleasant Community School District

Henry County Supervisors Address Lopez Reimbursement and County Service Costs

By Shelbi Swinscoe · Thursday, December 11th, 2025 at 2:14 pm CDT

The Henry County Board of Supervisors convened on Thursday, December 11, 2025, addressing routine business items including county engineer updates, a discussion and possible action on seeking outside counsel for the Carlos Lopez reimbursement, and a conversation with local morticians regarding county responsibilities.

County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss Weekly Updates

The board received an update from County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss. He reminded the board and the public that the bridge on 235th is now closed for replacement. He noted ongoing issues with motorists ignoring or missing detour signage and attempting to use 235th to enter or exit town. Hotchkiss said the current signage meets DOT standards, but they are discussing additional barricades to prevent drivers from using the closed route.
He also presented a potential lease agreement that would allow ITC to store equipment at the Rock Quarry, which the board will review before making a decision at the next meeting. Hotchkiss informed the board that Secondary Roads had planned to replace a truck next year, but due to long lead times, the ordering process needs to begin before the next fiscal year. The estimated cost of the truck is approximately $250,000.

Discussion & Possible Action Seeking Outside Counsel for Reimbursement to Carlos Lopez

Chad White opened the discussion by stating he agrees that Carlos Lopez should be reimbursed for his legal fees. However, he believes the supervisors should seek outside counsel for an unbiased legal opinion to confirm the county’s authority to issue the reimbursement. Steve Detrick agreed Lopez should be reimbursed but disagreed on hiring outside counsel, saying he believes the code already makes the county’s authority clear. The board ultimately voted 2 to 1 to seek outside counsel, with Steve Detrick voting against. During public comment, several residents expressed frustration with the decision, urging the board to stop “kicking the can down the road.” The board then adjourned and reconvened at 11 a.m. with local morticians.

Discussion with Local Morticians & County Responsibilities

The supervisors met at 11 a.m. with morticians from Mount Pleasant, Winfield, and New London. The discussion focused on the cost of removals and cremations for low-income individuals who qualify for county assistance. The board requested that morticians submit a breakdown of their service costs. They will then meet with Katie Reuter, Director of Public Health, to discuss how the county may revise eligibility requirements for these services.

 

KILJ Radio Announces Search for News Director and Morning Show Co-Host

By Shelbi Swinscoe · Thursday, December 11th, 2025 at 11:15 am CDT

KILJ Radio in Mount Pleasant has opened applications for a full time News Director and Morning Show Co-Host. The station, known for its locally focused news coverage since 1970, is looking for someone to lead daily news operations while co-hosting the weekday morning talk show.

The role includes managing the news department, gathering and reporting local news from Monday through Saturday, creating text and audio news reports, and directing part-time staff. Responsibilities also include conducting interviews, covering public meetings, maintaining the community calendar, and assisting with social media and production work. The position will require some night, weekend, and holiday shifts.

KILJ is seeking candidates who demonstrate strong writing and communication skills, sound judgement, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Experience in journalism or broadcasting is preferred.

Applicants are asked to submit a cover letter, resume, and demo by 5 pm on Monday, December 29, 2025. Materials may be emailed to General Manager Kadie Johannson at sales@kilj.com or delivered to KILJ Radio, 2411 Radio Drive, Mount Pleasant.

City Council Moves Forward on Ordinances, Projects

By Shelbi Swinscoe · Thursday, December 11th, 2025 at 8:00 am CDT

The Mount Pleasant City Council met in regular session Wednesday night and moved through a series of updates and approvals affecting city operations and future planning.

Council members read for the second time an ordinance to prohibit panhandling in certain areas within city limits, noting concern over professional panhandlers who come from outside the community and intimidate or take advantage of residents. Officials emphasized that the city is not targeting people in genuine need but wants to better address individuals who are harassing citizens.

The council also approved the second reading of updates to the hazardous materials response charge ordinance. Beginning in January, the city will adopt an annual resolution reflecting the fee schedule set by the state board, ensuring consistency in how hazardous materials response costs are handled. Officials noted this ordinance allows the city to bill when the fire department must respond to any call regarding hazardous materials.

The council approved the City’s five-year Capital Improvement Plan with the FAA, a requirement for securing federal funding for airport projects. The Airport Advisory Committee worked alongside the city’s engineering firm to develop the list of proposed improvements.

In personnel matters, the council approved the hiring of Amber Thorne as the new Administrative Assistant in the City Clerk’s office.

Public Works Department received approval to purchase a 2009 dump truck, which will be used to assist with snow removal this winter.

The council approved a resolution to purchase real estate at 405 E Madison Street from the Mount Pleasant Community School District. The move follows the school board’s narrow vote to sell the property to the City, and officials said they expect to close on the property toward the end of January 2026.

The council also moved forward with hiring an engineer to evaluate needed repairs at the property they will obtain from the school district. Mayor Brimhall noted that the City is still discussing the options of how they plan to use the building. Thomas McInerney, the engineer selected, is familiar with the city’s needs, having worked on the Mount Pleasant Park Shop and previously collaborated with the school district on various projects.

The meeting concluded with no public comments during the forum. The City Council will meet again Tuesday, December 23rd at 5:30pm.

 

Mount Pleasant Community School Board Narrowly Approves Property Conveyance, Greenhouse Project Moves Forward

By Shelbi Swinscoe · Tuesday, December 9th, 2025 at 9:54 am CDT

The Mount Pleasant Community School Board met Monday night for its regular meeting, where several high-profile items were on the agenda.

A public hearing was held regarding the proposed conveyance of district property located on East Madison Street, next to City Hall, to the City of Mount Pleasant. No comments were received from the public, and the board narrowly approved the resolution to proceed with the sale. The motion passed 4 to 3, with board members Schrader, Maher, and Hurd voting no.

Another major item on the agenda was a revised contract request from DeCarlo Corp. regarding the demolition of the PEO Memorial Building. Due to weather conditions preventing the use of equipment requiring water, the company requested an extension of the project timeline to March 31, 2026. The extension was narrowly approved on a 4 to 3 vote, with Schrader, Williamson, and Hurd opposed.

The board approved a construction proposal from Greiner Buildings to build a new Ag Education greenhouse, with one member abstaining due to conflict of interest. Materials for the project came to a total cost of $112,195 and construction costs total $35,000. Continental contributed a grant toward the project in 2019 in the amount of $129,000 to support expanded career and technical educational opportunities for area students.

The meeting also included other routine items and committee reports before adjourning.

School Improvement Advisory Committee Reviews Student Data, District Goals at First Meeting

By Shelbi Swinscoe · Thursday, December 4th, 2025 at 1:39 pm CDT

The Mount Pleasant Community School District’s School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC) met Wednesday evening in the high school media center, bringing together students, teachers, principals, school board members, parents, and staff — including the school resource officer — for the first session of the school year.

Superintendent John Hendrickson opened the meeting by noting that this initial session would differ from past years. Rather than functioning as a roundtable discussion, the focus would be on gathering information to help guide future recommendations to the school board. Under Iowa Code, SIAC committees advise local boards on major educational goals, student performance, bullying and harassment prevention, and other improvement areas.

Dr. Angie Butler, Director of Instruction, led much of the evening’s presentation. She outlined how the district’s Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) operate, emphasizing three core ideas: a focus on learning, a collaborative culture, and a results-oriented approach. Butler also reviewed the Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS), which details how the district responds when students need additional academic or behavioral assistance.

Focusing on the first pillar, focus on learning, the committee examined data from the Iowa School Performance Profiles, including student demographics, attendance, academic growth, graduation rates, post-secondary readiness, and building-specific results for Van Allen, Salem, the Middle School, and the High School. Butler highlighted several areas of progress, including a significant drop in chronic absenteeism — down to 11.2% in 2025 from 27.5% the previous year — and an increase in science proficiency, rising to 67.8 points from 58.3 in 2024.

Members also revisited the “Portrait of a Panther,” a framework developed last year to strengthen students’ soft skills. The model outlines six core competencies, each broken into three skills, adapted to be developmentally appropriate for all grade levels.

Under the second pillar, collaborative culture, Butler described how teacher teams operate and the questions they use to evaluate instruction and student learning. After each presentation segment, table groups discussed what they noticed in the data and what questions they still had.

Finally, the committee reviewed action plans related to attendance, graduation rate, academic performance, skills for learning, and professional practice under the third pillar, results-oriented approach. Each goal includes specific action steps, staff responsibilities, and scheduled check-ins three times before the end of the school year. The current graduation rate baseline stands at 80.3%, reflecting the typical one-year reporting delay.

John Hendrickson closed out the meeting by sharing updates about the Facilities Ad Hoc Committee. He outlined what the committee has accomplished in recent meetings, the information they have gathered for assessment, and the list of committee members, which includes a mix of community members, parents, and teachers. All details are available on the district’s website, you can click here to view the information.

The SIAC will reconvene for its next meeting on February 18 and will continue monitoring student progress and guiding district priorities throughout the year.

Henry County Supervisors Hear Department Updates, Discuss Budget Timing and Public Support for Deputy

By Shelbi Swinscoe · Thursday, December 4th, 2025 at 1:35 pm CDT

The Henry County Board of Supervisors met Thursday morning, December 4th, at 9 a.m. The meeting opened with approval of the agenda and the November 25 meeting minutes.

Department heads then delivered routine updates.
Nathan Milks reported that field work began earlier this week. Tracy Sammons of the Secondary Roads Department noted that crews worked 12-hour days over the weekend to complete snow removal following last week’s storm. She also announced that the bridge on 235th Street, west of Mount Pleasant, will close on Monday to begin a full replacement project scheduled for completion in November 2026.

Blake Vierra, Assistant County Attorney, shared upcoming district and trial court dates. He also noted a recent rise in truancy referrals. Under Iowa law, students may be referred to the county attorney once absences reach 20% of a grading period, unless exempt.

Public Health Director Katie Reuter reported steady demand for flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccinations.

Veterans Affairs Director Roger Pittsenbarger updated the board on the November 26th VA meeting and said their next meeting is scheduled for December 18th. He also reported strong turnout for the department’s breakfast events and warned of misleading mailers being sent to area veterans advertising “additional healthcare benefits” that ultimately require paid premiums.

Caleb Waters informed the board that the county dump station is operational, though installation of fiber optics for security cameras has been delayed due to cold weather. Waters also reported the completion of the new Story Book Walk, a collaboration with the Mount Pleasant Library and Rotary Club. He expressed concerns about tight budget timelines, noting that multiple departments must also work through their own governing boards for approvals.

Recorder Lynnae Buffington announced that staff member Marla Willey will retire in February and said she plans to promote Tamara to Deputy without filling the vacancy.

County Treasurer Kellie Sloan updated the board on an upcoming statewide rollout of a new scheduling system for motor vehicle and driver’s license appointments. The system, which goes live January 20, will allow Iowans to schedule appointments anywhere in the state and will replace the subscription-based system the county currently pays for.

Chad White delivered an update on behalf of Sheriff Rich McNamee, who is in training this week. McNamee reported a decrease in call volume this year compared to previous years, with inmate counts remaining in the upper 50s throughout the month. Housing out-of-county inmates has generated $4.2 million during the reporting period. McNamee also urged residents to celebrate safely this holiday season and to keep emergency kits, including blankets, jumper cables, and extra clothing in their vehicles.

Auditor Robin Detrick said her office is working on several year-end reports due this month. The board also announced the hiring of Gunnar Sloan as the county’s new IT personnel.

During public forum, several residents voiced strong support for Deputy Lopez and urged the county to reimburse his legal expenses. Lopez recently succeeded in having his name removed from the Brady-Giglio list and is seeking reimbursement for the costs associated with that process.

The meeting adjourned following public comments.