Two Mount Pleasant mayoral candidates — incumbent Steve Brimhall and challenger Kim (Kacey) Conrad — took the stage Thursday night for a public forum hosted by the Mount Pleasant Area Chamber Alliance: Government Relations Committee. The event gave residents a close look at each candidate’s priorities, experiences, and visions for the city’s future.

Conrad opened by thanking the Chamber and current Mayor Brimhall for his years of service. A small business owner of more than 40 years, Conrad said she and her husband moved to Mount Pleasant to be closer to family, and stayed because of the community. Since arriving, she’s co-founded a professional women’s group and helped raise over $8,000 for school libraries alongside the Kiwanis Club. “I’m not a cookie-cutter candidate,” she said. “I’m a builder.”

Mayor Brimhall, who is seeking reelection after decades in local government, highlighted his long record of civic service. Born and raised in Henry County, Brimhall served on the City Council for 19 years and is active in several local boards. “Our families deserve good jobs, safe neighborhoods, and responsive government,” he said.

Experience and Qualifications

Brimhall emphasized his background in finance and policy, noting that he helped develop the city’s personnel manual during his early years on the council. “I look at the budget monthly,” he said, adding that careful oversight has helped the city secure favorable loan rates and maintain financial stability.

Conrad drew from her international experience as a chief operating officer for an educational consulting firm, where she managed large-scale budgets, staffing, and facility projects. “I opened six private schools from start to finish,” she said. “I’ve built things from the ground up — that’s what I do.”

Economic Development and Growth

When asked about using local incentives such as Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts, both candidates voiced cautious support. Brimhall said such incentives are “almost a necessity” in today’s competitive environment but warned against overly generous terms. “Give what you have to give to a new business,” he said, “but don’t give away the store.”

Conrad agreed that incentives can help but focused on supporting small and locally owned businesses. She proposed a “concierge page” on the city’s website to streamline information for new entrepreneurs and highlight available properties and zoning details.

Tourism and Community Amenities

Both candidates acknowledged the economic power of Midwest Old Threshers but said tourism could be broadened. “Old Threshers is great,” Conrad said, “but it shouldn’t be the only game in town.” She suggested developing downtown events, promoting the city’s diversity, and partnering with Amtrak and local hotels to attract weekend visitors.

Brimhall credited Old Threshers and Main Street programs with generating vital revenue and volunteer engagement, noting that city hotel-motel taxes help fund both efforts.

On parks and trails, Brimhall discussed plans for new recreation areas, including a long-planned park in the Lee Town area and trail extensions on Winfield Avenue.

Kim Conrad praised existing trail plans but urged better year-round maintenance and creative use of outdoor spaces like Oakland Mills.

Future Vision and Priorities

Steve Brimhall said housing development remains one of the biggest challenges to growth. “To increase population, you have to increase places for people to live,” he said, pointing to several new apartment projects underway since Iowa Wesleyan’s closure.

Conrad outlined three key strategies for growth: boosting tourism, recruiting remote workers, and attracting new small businesses through outreach and improved communication. “We can grow if we make Mount Pleasant more attractive for families and entrepreneurs,” she said.

When asked what she would add to the community “if money were no issue”, Conrad proposed public transportation and more benches downtown to make the area more accessible for seniors.

Brimhall said his dream project would be a long-discussed recreation center, though its cost has made it “a hard sell without a major bond issue.”

Utilities, Taxes, and Civic Engagement

On utility rates, Brimhall said the city works to keep costs low but remains “at the mercy of the market.” Conrad suggested exploring renewable options like wind and solar power to stabilize long-term energy costs.

Both candidates agreed that partisanship should stay out of city government. Conrad proposed quarterly town halls to increase citizen input, while Brimhall said he appoints people to city committees based on ability, not political affiliation.

Looking ahead, Conrad said she envisions a Mount Pleasant that’s “one-third larger, thriving, and diverse,” with a lively downtown and stronger connections between residents. Brimhall said continued growth will depend on housing, infrastructure, and cooperation among local leaders.

The Mount Pleasant mayoral election will take place on Tuesday, November 4, with early voting now open at the Henry County Courthouse. Sample ballots are available online at the county website.

Public Comment – Henry County Auditor Robin Detrick:

When Taking on the position of Henry County Auditor it’s something I have worked hard for and take great pride in. This role is not about the title, and it’s not about the money — it’s about making a difference. As Auditor, my duty is to serve the taxpayers of Henry County with integrity, transparency, and dedication. The Auditor’s Office operates independently, elected directly by the people. My responsibilities include keeping accurate county records and serving as secretary to the Board of Supervisors by recording the minutes — I also want to clarify that the Auditor is an equal elected official, independent of, and not subordinate to, the Board.

Henry County is my home. As both a resident and as your elected Auditor, it saddens me to see how easily misinformation and rumors can spread — often by those who may not have all the facts. These false narratives mislead the public and create division where cooperation should exist. In my nearly 15 years of working for Henry County, I have always welcomed anyone — citizen, employee, or board member — to come directly to the Auditor’s Office for accurate information. To date, individuals who speak during public comment or the individuals who record our meetings have not come to me personally to confirm the facts. I welcome those conversations—I have nothing to hide, and my door remains open.

Henry County government should operate as a team — elected and non-elected officials alike — working together for the good of our taxpayers. Unfortunately, recent behavior and misleading claims have made that teamwork difficult. It’s time we return to cooperation, respect, and truth. To the residents of Henry County: if you want the facts, please come to the source. My office is open, and I am committed to transparency and service to you.

Thank you.

Robin Detrick, Henry County Auditor

At a recent Henry County Board of Supervisors meeting, discussion continued on a proposal to add a part-time courthouse security deputy — a position that officials say would improve safety during court sessions while remaining cost-effective. 

The conversation stemmed from earlier discussions several weeks ago, with the Sheriff returning to the board to present data and recommendations. After consulting with the Clerk of Court and the Treasurer’s Office, he confirmed that courthouse surcharge revenues have averaged between $40,000 and $45,000 annually since 2021. Those funds could be used to cover the salary of a part-time deputy, which is estimated at $27,000 to $35,000 per year depending on pay scale and hours worked. 

The position would be strictly part-time, averaging around 20 hours a week, and would not include benefits. The deputy would primarily work during court sessions — Mondays for district court, Fridays for magistrate court, and every other Wednesday when an associate district court judge is present. 

Board members also suggested reviewing how courthouse surcharge funds are tracked and used. Supervisor discussions emphasized the importance of earmarking these dollars specifically for courthouse security needs — including personnel, equipment, or future safety upgrades — rather than letting them blend into the general fund. 

Once final procedural checks are complete, the proposal to hire a part-time courthouse security deputy will return to the board’s agenda for approval. 

The Henry County Board of Supervisors met Thursday morning, approving previous minutes and discussing county infrastructure, landfill operations, and courthouse technology needs. 

Engineer Jake Hotchkiss reported steady progress on fall maintenance work, including ditching, shoulder repairs, and seeding along rural roads. Two utility permits were approved—one for IMON Communications and one for Windstream. Bids will be opened next week for the Fremont Avenue culvert replacement, with construction possibly beginning this winter. 

Planning Director Joe Buffington presented a resolution approving the Smyth Subdivision near Salem, which the Board unanimously adopted. Supervisors also set an October 30 public hearing to consider the sale of Lot G in Linden Heights, an unused county-owned property. 

Supervisor Steve Detrick updated the Board on courthouse IT and security improvements. The county will post a new IT position soon and will host a technology audit October 29–30 with help from the Iowa State Association of Counties. Temporary assistance from Lee County’s IT staff continues as Henry County evaluates long-term needs. 

Four candidates seeking seats on the Mount Pleasant Community School District Board of Education gathered this week for a public forum, offering voters insight into their backgrounds, qualifications, and goals if elected.

The forum, moderated by the Mount Pleasant Area Chamber Alliance Government Relations Committee, provided each candidate two minutes for opening remarks before answering questions about leadership, fiscal priorities, superintendent hiring, and community partnerships.

Candidate Introductions

Craig Hurd, plant manager at Continental, said his professional and volunteer background inspired him to seek a position on the board.
“I’ve been involved with several volunteer organizations like Habitat for Humanity and the Cub Scouts,” he said. “I know that without people getting involved, those organizations can’t be successful. The school board is really the same way. Unless we have people willing to step up, we’ll never see all the different perspectives needed to make the best choices for the district.”

Hurd said his experience in quality assurance and engineering has taught him to make the most impact with limited funds — a skill essential in public education.

Kevin Schrader, a Mount Pleasant resident since 1983 and longtime business owner, emphasized communication and community involvement.
“I’m a good listener,” Schrader said. “I have no agenda. My agenda is your agenda—what do the people want to do, and where do they want to go?”
He noted that operating a business through both “good times and bad times” has taught him how to manage budgets and make careful decisions.

Derek Mullin, a 1999 Mount Pleasant graduate, farmer, and former teacher, is seeking reelection to the board.
“I value education and the opportunities it provides,” Mullin said. “I’ve taught in both small and large districts, worked in the trades, and helped reestablish agricultural education here in Mount Pleasant after decades without it.”

Melinda Huisinga, the incumbent representing District 1, is also seeking reelection. A retired vice president of human resources at EMC National Life, Huisinga previously served 12 years on the Carlisle Community School Board.
“I’m running for reelection because there’s unfinished business I’d like to see through—namely hiring a new superintendent and guiding the work of our newly formed facilities committee,” she said.

Engaging with Childcare and Early Learning

When asked whether the district should be more involved in supporting childcare services, candidates agreed that collaboration benefits the entire community.

Mullin said he supports engaging directly with childcare providers and expanding the district’s role where possible.
“A childcare center has proven to be a direct pipeline for students into the district,” Mullin explained. “Right now, we’re providing space for an afterschool program—I believe it’s at Harlan Elementary—and I think we can build on that. If we move forward with a facilities plan, why not include childcare space right where future students will attend elementary school?”

He pointed to New London as an example of how early childhood programs can influence enrollment.
“Mount Pleasant loses open enrollment to New London. Danville loses open enrollment to New London,” Mullin said. “That’s something we need to make a priority—to keep our students in our own district.”

Melinda Huisinga agreed. “That was our idea in having an early childhood center here in Mount Pleasant,” she said. “So children could start as infants in childcare, move right on into preschool, and into kindergarten without families having to go to another community. We’re already working with the current childcare center and after school program, and we’d like to see that expanded.”

Challenges Facing Public Education

Candidates were next asked to identify the biggest challenges facing public education.

“For the state of Iowa, and especially Mount Pleasant, it’s demographics,” Mullin said. “We have 450 fewer students than in 1999, and 60 fewer than last year. That’s over 500 students lost, which directly affects funding—about $8,000 per student. That means we’ll lose roughly $480,000 in state aid next year.”

Mullin said declining enrollment is a rural trend and impacts everything from staffing to programming. “Retaining graduates and bringing back college graduates to our area will be extremely important,” he added.

Huisinga agreed, noting that demographic decline and competition from private and charter schools are compounding factors. “The Department of Education predicts that by 2030, rural schools will lose another 3.5% of certified enrollment,” she said. “That could mean another 175 students for Mount Pleasant—about $1.4 million in revenue lost.”

She added that the district has already begun preparing for budget cuts of up to $1.5 million.

Kevin Schrader said the district should begin examining its programs and facilities immediately. “We can’t wait until next year to start looking at what programs might have to be cut or what building projects can be postponed,” he said. “We need to ask why students are leaving and what we can do to keep them.”

Elementary Facilities and Future Planning

The candidates also discussed the district’s ongoing evaluation of its elementary schools.

Huisinga said an ad hoc facilities committee—made up of 45 community members, parents, and staff—has begun studying options.
“Their purpose is to envision the best educational experience for our elementary students and determine how our facilities fit that vision,” she said. “We currently operate four elementary schools plus the middle and high schools, and financially, we can’t support seven locations.”

She provided comparative per-student cost figures and stressed that safety, security, and efficiency would guide the committee’s recommendations.

Schrader said fiscal caution is critical. “Maybe we don’t need to spend right now,” he said. “Maybe we step back and maintain what we have until we can afford more. We can’t just throw money around—we need to be diligent and involve the community.”

Derek Mullin said his vision includes consolidating or renovating facilities to provide modern learning environments. “Our current buildings were built in the 1950s and don’t meet today’s needs,” he said. “We need 21st-century spaces that support all learners, including those in special education and English language learning.”

He explained that renovation costs could be covered through the district’s SAVE (sales tax) and PPEL (property tax) funds—separate from the general fund affected by declining enrollment.

Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Schrader said the district’s future depends on community collaboration.
“I don’t think we can just hire a superintendent and step back,” he said. “We need to get involved now and plan for the future—four years, ten years, even twenty years out. That means building strong community partnerships, bringing in new businesses, and giving our graduates reasons to come back.”

Mullin said his short-term focus would be ensuring strong leadership and a clear facilities roadmap. “In four years, I want us to have a strong superintendent and strong administrators,” he said. “In ten years, I hope those facilities plans are implemented. Twenty years from now—well, I’ll let the next generation take that.”

Melinda Huisinga said she hopes to see new, modern facilities and continued attention to diverse student needs. “We have students speaking nine different languages in our district,” she said. “We need to support all of them, while also strengthening career and technical programs, competitive pay, and support for teachers and staff.”

Closing Remarks

In closing statements, the candidates reflected on the responsibilities of the board and their commitment to public service.

Derek Mullin said he is proud of his first term’s work. “The purpose of the school board is oversight—of finance, policy, and facilities,” he said. “I’ve shown my commitment by being present and informed. I haven’t missed a meeting in two years because I want to make the best decisions for our students.”

Melinda Huisinga said her experience in human resources and prior school board service have prepared her to continue leading during a period of transition. “We’re making major decisions about personnel, facilities, and finances,” she said. “I believe my background is an asset as we move forward.”

Kevin Schrader encouraged voters to stay engaged. “Your vote doesn’t stop at the polling station,” he said. “I promise to listen, work hard, and be transparent about every financial decision that affects you, the taxpayer.”

The forum was hosted by the Mount Pleasant Area Chamber Alliance Government Relations Committee and broadcast live on KILJ Radio.

Absentee voting is now open at the Henry County Courthouse, with Election Day set for Tuesday, November 4.

The next Mount Pleasant Community School Board meeting will be held October 27 at 6:00 p.m. in the district’s Media Center.