The Mount Pleasant City Council met in adjourned session Tuesday evening, December 23, at City Hall, approving multiple ordinances, resolutions, and purchases affecting city operations.
Among the major items of business, the council approved the third and final readings of two ordinance amendments. One ordinance updates Chapter 14 of the city code, prohibiting loitering and panhandling in certain public areas, including roadways and rights of way. City officials said the ordinance is intended to improve public safety.
The council also adopted an ordinance amending Chapter 25, which updates municipal fees and charges related to hazardous materials response. The new rates align with those set by the Iowa Fire Service.
In new business, council members approved and authorized the mayor to sign an amended agreement with All God’s Creatures for animal impound care. The council also approved the purchase of property at 403 East Green Street for $20,000, plus closing and filing fees. Building and Zoning Administrator Gary Shahan reported the property has been on the city’s nuisance list for several years and that staff recently reached an agreement with the property owner.
Several appointments were approved during the meeting, including Mayor Steven Brimhall’s temporary appointment to the Southeast Iowa Regional Planning Commission Board of Directors. The council also approved multiple reappointments to the Utility Board of Trustees and the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Council members authorized the purchase of a new street sweeper for the Public Works Department from MacQueen Group of Ankeny at a cost of approximately $433,846. The street sweeper is expected to be delivered in September 2026, with no payment due at this time. Public Works Director Drew Schumacher explained the city follows a six-year replacement schedule for sweepers, which falls next year. Due to extended lead times, the Personnel and Finance Committee recommended beginning the purchasing process now to ensure timely replacement.
Additional actions included approving continued membership with Iowa Communities Assurance Pool for 2026 and authorizing the appointment of William Kinney to the Fire Department Reserves.
The council also approved hiring a search firm to assist with the recruitment and hiring of a new city administrator, following the sudden passing of longtime City Administrator Brent Schleisman. Councilmember Steve Engberg spoke on the proposal from Theia Management Consulting, emphasizing the council’s responsibility to do everything possible to find the right candidate. Engberg noted that while the firm will help guide the process, Schleisman’s depth of knowledge and experience can never truly be replaced. Mayor Steven Brimhall said the city does not anticipate having a new city administrator in place until April.
Before adjournment, Mayor Brimhall noted that several citizens have made donations to the bike trail in Schleisman’s memory. Those wishing to contribute may donate through the Mount Pleasant Parks and Recreation Department, with “Brent Schleisman Memorial” listed in the memo line. Brimhall said the bike trail reflects values important to Schleisman throughout his career, including thoughtful planning, community investment, and projects intended to benefit residents for generations.
The meeting concluded with a public forum and adjournment. The Mount Pleasant City Council will next meet in regular session on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.