At their April department head meeting, Henry County officials shared important updates on local projects, staffing, and events.

Treasurer’s Office:
The treasurer reported driver’s license staff have been recertified, and new equipment is up and running. Mobile home and utility credits were certified to the state. Delinquent property tax notices totaling $639,840 (about 1.93% unpaid) were mailed this week. Preparations are underway for the annual tax sale, with online registration open May 19–June 12 and the sale on June 16.

County Attorney’s Office:
Upcoming court dates include district court on May 5, 12, and 19, with a felony trial set for May 13. More defendants are now requesting jury trials, even for minor cases. Three non-jury trials are scheduled for mid- to late May. The office renewed its cost-sharing agreement with the sheriff for GPS tracking devices and recently won an appeal in a controlled substance case.

Conservation Department:
Campgrounds opened April 15, and the major dump station project has started constructon, all 8 tanks are positioned, wiring has begun, with hopes to finish by Memorial Day. Fundraising for a new playground has topped $50,000. Following the cancellation of the AmeriCorps, The Conservation Dept. will not have Americorps volunteers this year. The department is looking to hire a seasonal worker to help during the busy summer season.

Auditor’s Office and Elections:
Budget certifications for county and local governments are complete. Early voting begins today (May 1st) for the Mount Pleasant Community School District special election, with Election Day set for May 13 at Manning Hall.

Board of Supervisors:
Supervisors are working to increase regional project involvement and improve the county website. They also attended Walmart’s 40th anniversary event this week.

The next Henry County Board of Supervisors meeting is May 8^th in The Supervisors Office of the Henry County Courthouse.

As May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, Iowans are being called on to break the silence and stigma surrounding mental illness—an issue that affects 1 in 5 adults across the country each year. With Iowa slipping in national rankings for mental health care access and outcomes, advocates say it’s more important than ever to talk openly about mental health.

The Make It OK Iowa campaign, led by the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative, is offering resources to help individuals and organizations across the state raise awareness, share stories, and support one another. Their free downloadable Make It OK Iowa Toolkit provides practical tools for starting conversations in workplaces, schools, and communities.

The campaign encourages Iowans to take part by sharing their mental health stories and using social media to amplify the message.

Whether you’re reaching out to a friend, starting a conversation at work, or sharing your own journey, every voice helps reduce the stigma. To download the toolkit and learn how to get involved, visit www.MakeItOK.org/Iowa.

Two candidates vying for a seat on the Mount Pleasant Community School District Board shared their views on district priorities, transparency, and fiscal responsibility during a public forum hosted by KILJ and the district this week. Todd Liechty and Mark Overberg, both with personal ties to the district, answered a range of questions from moderators and residents in advance of the May 13 election.

Community Survey Takeaways

When asked about the district’s recent community survey, both candidates had clear takeaways. Mark Overberg listed three: widespread opposition to centralization, concerns about the grade-alike configuration, and a preference for neighborhood schools. He also noted a transparency gap, saying the community didn’t feel fully informed. “It comes back to transparency,” he said. “The community didn’t have the full picture.”

Liechty echoed those concerns and focused on the unpopularity of the grade-alike model. “I would love to have conversations with people about why they’re against it,” he said. “Is it a matter of convenience, or are there concerns that have merit?” He also advocated for higher public support before moving forward with any new bond issues, citing the 37% support for the central campus plan as a cautionary signal.

Addressing Community Unrest

Responding to a pointed question about how they would help soothe community unrest, Liechty emphasized communication and transparency.

Overberg criticized the firm’s work, saying the survey “only did half the job.” He pushed for more regular communication, suggesting that beyond the superintendent’s weekly radio updates, a school board member should also speak publicly each week. He also proposed more open forums as a way to improve public input and trust.

The Future of Salem Elementary

Both candidates were asked directly about their views on keeping Salem Elementary open. Liechty said the emotional nature of the issue should not overshadow facts. “It has to come down to what’s best for all the kids in the district,” he said, noting he would want solid data before making a decision.

Overberg, meanwhile, said the district should make investments in Salem to improve efficiency and demonstrate long-term commitment. He said that could encourage more open enrollment and reduce costs. “If we show the community that it’s going to stay open, I think the enrollment will follow,” he said.

Why They’re Running

Asked why they chose to run for school board, Overberg said his motivation stemmed from regularly attending meetings and wanting to shift from raising concerns to helping find solutions.

Overberg emphasized his real-world leadership experience and family ties to education, saying his skills in communication and fiscal planning would be an asset to the board.

Liechty described out of passion for the students and the district.

He says,  “I can sit here and complain, or I can get involved.” Liechty closed with a reminder of his long-standing commitment to education.

Early voting begins May 1 at the Henry County Courthouse. Election Day is May 13 at Manning Hall, St. Alphonsus Catholic Church 607 S Jackson St, Mount Pleasant, IA.

MOUNT PLEASANT, IA – April 30, 2025 — A crowd of employees, community leaders, and special guests gathered with smiles and applause Wednesday morning to celebrate a major milestone: the 40th anniversary of the Walmart Distribution Center in Mount Pleasant. The event was equal parts celebration and reflection, honoring decades of service, safety, community impact, and a future of continued growth.

“We’re excited, we’ve got a lot to celebrate,” said Pat Haigg, GM of the Distribution Center, noting that the facility recently hit 95 consecutive days without a safety incident. “That shows the culture we’ve built—taking care of each other and going home the same way we came in.”

Chad Sloat, General Manager of Transportation added to the celebration by recognizing two standout drivers.

“Our drivers are out there every day keeping our roads, cities, and communities safe,” HR Director Jeff Nudd, said. “They represent us with pride.”

Mayor Steve Brimhall took the stage to reflect on the center’s four-decade impact on the community. He emphasized how the facility has grown alongside Mount Pleasant and become a cornerstone of the local economy.

To cap off the morning, attendees watched a specially produced video chronicling the evolution of the facility since it opened in 1985. From manual paperwork to automation, from a few hundred employees to more than 600 today, the film highlighted the resilience, innovation, and people-first culture that define the Mount Pleasant Distribution Center.

As Walmart leaders expressed during the event, the 40-year legacy is just the beginning. With ongoing investment in automation and technology, and a team culture rooted in respect and excellence, the Mount Pleasant Distribution Center is ready for the next 40 years—and beyond.