Mount Pleasant City Council Regular Session on Wednesday, July 23 at 5:30 p.m

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 at 2:27 pm CDT

The Mount Pleasant City Council will meet in Regular Session on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at City Hall, 307 E. Monroe Street, second-floor meeting room at 5:30 p.m.

 

A G E N D A

  1. Roll Call.         

 

  1. Consent Agenda: To the Public – All items with an asterisk (*) are routine

by the City Council and will be enacted by one motion and a roll call of the Council-

members. There will be no separate discussion of items unless the Mayor, a Councilmember

or citizen so request, in which event the item will be removed from the Consent Agenda and

will be considered in its normal sequence on the Agenda.

 

  1. Receive & file communications.

 

  1. Approve agenda.                   

 

*5.  Approve minutes of previous meetings.

 

*6.  Approve payment of bills.

 

*7.  Receive report of Officers.

 

  1. Old Business-

 

  1. 3rd reading/adopt the Ordinance amending Chapter 12, Section 12-32 (Parking Regulations) of the City Code of Ordinances prohibiting parking on Pearl Street from North Main Street to North Adams Street.

 

  1. 3rd reading/adopt the Ordinance amending Chapter 12, Section 12-6 (Stop Intersections) of the City Code of Ordinances for Harvest Drive and South Walnut Street

 

  1. 3rd reading/adopt the Ordinance amending Chapter 12 Section 12-4 (Speed Limits) of the City Code of Ordinances to decrease speed to 35 mph on South Walnut Street from Harvest Drive south to city corporate limits.

 

*                d)   Renewal of a Special Class C Retail Alcohol License for Paul Revere’s Pizza located at 112 West Washington Street.

 

*                e)   Renewal of a Class C Retail Alcohol License for Westside Tap located at 119 South Jefferson Street.

 

Page 2 of 2

  1. New Business –

 

  1. Resolution authorizing the change of assignment of Joseph Whalen with the Mount Pleasant Fire Department.

 

  1. Approve the purchase of a linelazer to paint city streets and parking lot lines.

 

  1. Resolution approving the release of real estate mortgage and authorizing the Mayor to execute on behalf of the City.

 

  1. Public Forum.

 

  1. Adjourn to meet in regular session on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 5:30 p.m.

“Darwin “Dar” Charles Cooley

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 at 10:44 am CDT

“Darwin “Dar” Charles Cooley, 74, of Burlington, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington.

 

Born on September 21, 1950, in Burlington, Iowa, Darwin was the son of Charles and Leona (Wirt) Cooley.

 

Darwin was a 1968 graduate of Burlington High School and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy from the University of Iowa in 1974. He was a dedicated pharmacist who had many professional achievements and impactful contributions serving as the Director of Pharmacy at Great River Medical Center for 46 years.

 

Beyond his professional achievements, Darwin found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved spending time outdoors gardening, fishing, golfing, or just relaxing in nature.  He was a member of Carthage Lake Club where he spent lots of time hanging out with friends and family, sharing stories and enjoying the outdoors.  His lifelong dedication to bowling was reflected in numerous accomplishments and a cherished circle of friends.  Dar was a fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, making many road trips to St. Louis with his son and friends.

 

He was an excellent cook and loved making food for his family, friends, and coworkers.  On several occasions, he would make a gourmet meal for those working Thanksgiving at the hospital.

 

Darwin was a generous man and a proud father and grandfather. He loved spending time with his children and granddaughters, and it brought him great joy watching them grow up.

Darwin is survived by his children, Adam Cooley and Lisa (Chad) Lambi; and his beloved granddaughters, Ella and Paige. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Gary Cooley.

 

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has been entrusted to Prugh Crematory. No services are scheduled at this time.

 

Memories and condolences can be shared at www.prughfuneral.com.”

Brian Emery Blankenburg

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 at 9:40 am CDT

Brian Emery Blankenburg, 71, of Donnellson, Iowa, passed away at on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at Birkwood Village in Fort Madison, Iowa.

He was born on October 31, 1953, in Keokuk, Iowa, the son of Donald Lee and Alvera Bell (Bentzinger) Blankenburg.

He is survived by his brother: Evan (Jan) Blankenburg.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Brian graduated from Iowa Wesleyan University and worked as a pharmacy technician at HyVee until his retirement. He enjoyed baseball and was an avid New York Yankees fan and an avid collector.

His body has been entrusted to the crematory of Schmitz Funeral Homes for cremation.

A visitation will be held from 12:00 noon to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Schmitz Funeral Home in Donnellson, where the family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

A memorial has been established in his memory.

Schmitz Funeral Home of Donnellson is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.schmitzfuneralhomes.com.

Micah Peck Takes Baton as New Band Director for Mount Pleasant Community Schools

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 at 7:57 am CDT

Mount Pleasant Community Schools will begin the 2025–26 academic year with a new face leading the music department, as Micah Peck steps in as the new high school band director.

Peck takes over following the departure of the previous director, who served the district for just two years. While the change may come as a surprise to some community members, school leaders are optimistic about the future of the music program under new leadership.

Though Peck is new to the district, he brings a fresh energy and commitment to building on the tradition of excellence in Mount Pleasant’s band program. Students and families can expect him to be visible and engaged early on, especially with the marching season just around the corner.

The band program has long been a point of pride in Mount Pleasant, with community members frequently turning out to support performances at football games, parades, and concert events. The change in leadership is sure to draw interest from supporters and alumni alike.

Stay tuned for a follow-up interview with Micah Peck as he shares more about his musical background, goals for the program, and how he plans to hit the ground running this fall.

Henry County Democrats Invite Community to August 9th Open Meeting

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 at 7:56 am CDT

Mount Pleasant, Iowa — The Henry County Democrats are inviting the public to an open meeting on Saturday, August 9th at 10:00 a.m. at the First Methodist Church in Mount Pleasant.

Organizers describe the event as a welcoming space for longtime Democrats, curious neighbors, and new voices ready to get involved. As the 2025 election season ramps up, the meeting will feature updates, upcoming events, and opportunities for civic engagement.

A highlight of the morning will be a special 10-minute workshop led by Dave Helman, focused on writing with clarity and impact across platforms. Attendees are encouraged to bring a notebook and prepare to take away practical tips for making their voices heard.

“All are welcome,” organizers say. “Connection and community await.”

Whether you’re looking to get active politically or simply want to learn more about local efforts, this event promises a chance to engage with others committed to building momentum for change in Henry County.

Salem City Council to Address Personnel, Infrastructure, and Property Items at July 22 Meeting

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 at 7:56 am CDT

The Salem City Council will convene for its regular meeting on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at the Salem Community Center, located at 201 S Main Street.

The agenda includes a range of business items spanning employee matters, maintenance staffing, infrastructure concerns, and property issues. The meeting will begin with the formal opening, followed by the council’s consideration of several new business items:

  • Employee Separation – The council will address the departure of a current city employee.
  • Maintenance Employee Position – Discussion is expected on filling or restructuring a maintenance role within the city workforce.
  • Building Permit Request – A permit for 511 E Oak Street will be reviewed.
  • City Park Rental Questions – Council members will examine questions or concerns surrounding park use and rentals.
  • Sinkhole Concerns – The city will consider reported sinkholes near W Jackson and Van Buren Streets.
  • 206 N Main Street Property – A reversion agreement related to a new buyer of the property will be discussed.

The meeting will conclude with formal adjournment. Residents are encouraged to attend and stay informed about developments impacting the city

Danville Schools Seeking Coaches for Multiple Sports Programs

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 at 7:55 am CDT

Danville Community School District is currently hiring for several coaching positions—and there’s still time to apply! If you or someone you know has a passion for working with student-athletes and a desire to be part of a supportive, energetic school community, now is the time to step up to the plate.

The district is looking to fill the following positions:

  • Junior High Head Baseball Coach
  • High School Boys Head Soccer Coach
  • High School Head Golf Coach
  • High School Assistant Golf Coach
  • High School Head Softball Coach

These roles offer a great opportunity to positively impact students while fostering leadership, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

Interested applicants can view job descriptions and apply online at:
IowaWORKS Job Listings – Danville CSD

For more information about the coaching positions, contact Activities Director Amber Taeger at amber.taeger@danvillecsd.org.

Sports, July 23rd

By Slaten Swords · Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 at 6:30 am CDT

Postseason Baseball

Classes 2A and 4A held their quarterfinal matchups yesterday and there was no room for errors in any of the contests.

For Class 2A, #1 Underwood and #8 Cascade were involved in a pitchers duel until Gavin Miles smoked a three-run homer for the Eagles in the only source of offense for the game, as the defending champs defeated the Cougars 3-0. 

In the second matchup of the day, #5 Mediapolis struck first against #4 Unity Christian after Will Luttenegger singled home Braeden Olivier, who opened the third inning with a triple. But a controversial call said Oliver missed the first base bag after appearing to double home two runs; instead, the runs were taken away and the Knights took advantage, scoring four of their five runs with two outs over the fourth and fifth innings to beat the Bulldogs, 5-1. Mediapolis head coach Rick Whitaker was emotional talking about his trio of seniors after the game,

“I broke down a little bit in the huddle…Those guys have been with me for five years as 8th graders all the way up here and just their personality, you know, all the kids are different. But you know, Lance is a bulldog. He’s a fighter. We got Brayden Oliver, who just had a fantastic year. You know, didn’t have the greatest couple of years and then he just had a huge year. He had two hits there, you know. And then Payton, he’s almost caught every inning behind the plate, you know, 95° weather and he’s as tough as nails. He’s one of the better catchers in Class 2A, I for sure love those guys.”

Mediapolis finished the season with a 27-3 record. 

#4 Unity Christian will get their rematch against #1 Underwood tomorrow, July 24th, at 4:30 pm.

The dramatics were on full display in the early evening matchup between #3 Van Meter and #6 Chariton, as a pair of errors allowed the Bulldogs to push across three runs in the bottom of the 7th inning to force extra innings, then Chariton reclaimed the lead in the 8th inning before throwing out a Bulldog trying to advance on a single to win the game in upset fashion, 7-6. Keagen Evans led the squad with three RBIs in the win.

#7 West Lyon attempted to comeback against #2 Pleasantville, but the Trojans slammed the door to escape with the 5-4 victory. JJ Phillips led the way with two RBIs. #2 Pleasantville will take on #6 Chariton tomorrow at 7 pm.

Class 4A had #3 Iowa City High produce three runs in the sixth inning to beat #6 Waukee 5-3. #7 Prairie will meet Iowa City High in the semifinals at 5 pm tomorrow after Tait Tierney tossed a complete game shutout against #2 Johnston to win 6-0. 

#4 Waukee Northwest defeated #5 Iowa City Liberty 4-1 and the nightcap held the biggest surprise as #8 Bettendorf handed #1 Sioux City East a 2-1 loss as Jackson Hatler pitched all seven innings, striking out nine in the victory. The Wolves and Bulldogs will compete tomorrow at 7:30 pm in the semifinals. 

For the Class 1A semifinal matchups, #4 Martensdale-St. Marys and #8 Hillcrest Academy will meet up today at 4:30 pm, while #7 East Buchanan will play #3 Saint Ansgar tonight at 7 pm for the night cap.

In Class 3A, #1 Wahlert Catholic will face off against #5 Saydel at 5 pm and #2 Pella will take on #3 Bishop Heelan at 7:30 pm. 

Postseason Softball

In the bottom half of the Class 3A bracket, #7 Washington’s defense fell apart late as #2 Williamsburg escaped with a 7-2 win over the Demons. Colbie Greiner crushed a two-run homer.

#3 Albia snuck past #6 Estherville Lincoln Central 2-1. The Raiders and Lady Dees will meet up today at 4:45 pm.

Washington will take on Estherville Lincoln Central today at 10 am in the consolation bracket.

In Class 2A, #1 Van Meter crushed #8 East Marshall 11-3 and #5 West Fork downed #4 Durant 7-1. The Bulldogs and Warhawks will link up today at 3 pm, while East Marshall will take on Durant in the consolation bracket today at 10:30 am.

In the bottom half of the bracket, #2 Louisa-Muscatine struck quick, scoring four runs in the first inning before cruising to a 5-2 victory over #7 West Monona. Kamryn Taylor knocked in three runs for the Falcons.

#3 West Lyon outsprinted #6 Cascade in their 10-8 win. #2 Louisa-Muscatine and #3 West Lyon will compete at 5:15 pm tonight, while #7 West Monona and #6 Cascade will participate in their consolation matchup today at 12:15 pm.

In Class 1A, #8 Highland threw everything they had at #1 Wayne but still fell short, losing 7-4. Adisyn Prottsman smacked a double for two RBIs. The Falcons will take on #4 Riverside at 7 pm tonight after the Bulldogs defeated #5 Newell-Fonda 14-6.

#8 Highland and #5 Newell-Fonda will meet up in the consolation bracket at 12:45 pm today. 

Lastly, #2 Clarksville will face off against #6 St. Edmond in the semifinals tonight at 7:30 pm after Clarksville snuck past Newman Catholic 5-4 and the Gaels clobbered #3 Wapsie Valley 11-2. The Knights and Warriors will play today at 2:30 pm for their consolation matchup. 

In the consolation bracket showdowns:

In Class 4A, #1 Xavier defeated #4 Dallas Center Grimes 2-0 and #2 Norwalk bested #6 Western Dubuque 10-9. 

For Class 5A, #5 Valley crushed #8 Dowling Catholic 12-3 and #7 Pleasant Valley beat #3 Southeast Polk 11-9. 

In Class 3A, #8 Center Point-Urbana won their consolation bracket bout against #5 West Liberty yesterday 5-4. 

In the championship bracket for Class 4A, #5 ADM will play #8 Pella in the semifinals today at 10 am. #7 North Scott will look for another upset against #3 North Polk today at 12:15 pm. 

For the Class 5A semifinal matchups, #1 Waukee Northwest and #4 Ankeny Centennial will meet today at 10:30 am. #2 Linn-Mar will take on #6 Cedar Falls today at 12:45 pm.

In the top half of the Class 3A bracket, #1 Wahlert Catholic and #4 PCM will face off today at 2:30 pm.

Local Athletic Summer Camps

The WACO youth volleyball camp for 5th through 8th graders and the high school camp’s registration due date is today.

Check out this link for other local summer athletic camps: School Summer Camps

Prospect League

The Burlington Bees had their five-game win streak snapped last night, falling to the Normal CornBelters 5-4 in extra innings. The Bees are back at home at 6:30 pm tonight to start a two-game series against the Thrillville Thrillbillies.

The Clinton LumberKings split their doubleheader against the Quincy Doggy Paddlers last night, losing game one 8-7 and taking game two 17-13. The two will engage in a rubber match today in Quincy at 6:30 pm.

This Day in Sports History

1866 – Cincinnati Baseball club, also known as the Cincinnati Red Stockings, forms.

1931 – France announces it can’t afford to send a team to the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics due to the Great Depression. They eventually manage to send a team.

2009 – Mark Buehrle of the Chicago White Sox becomes the 18th pitcher to throw a perfect game in MLB history, defeating the Tampa Bay Rays 5-0.