Mount Pleasant Municipal Utilities Regular Board Meeting Minutes

Mount Pleasant, Iowa April 18, 2023
The Board of Trustees of Mount Pleasant Municipal Utilities met in regular session at
1:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chamber located at 307 E. Monroe St.
Trustees Present: Dan McCabe, Harvey Ungerman, David George, Michelle Rosell
and Lori White.
Trustees Absent: None
Others Present: Nate Lucas, General Manager; Jody Fuller, Treasurer/Accounting
Supervisor; Morgan Forbess, Accounting Clerk; Shawna Sammons, Board Clerk; Matt
Zurmuehlen, Electric Supervisor; Loren Rich, Water Supervisor; Louie Ervin, Project
Consultant; Timothy Whipple, Attorney; and General Public.

It was moved by Michelle Rosell and seconded by Lori White to approve the agenda.
Roll call on the motion was as follows: Ayes: D. McCabe
H. Ungerman
D. George
M. Rosell
L. White
Nays: None
It was moved by Harvey Ungerman and seconded by David George that the minutes of
the regular board meeting of March 21, 2023, be approved.
Roll call on the motion was as follows: Ayes: D. McCabe
H. Ungerman
D. George
M. Rosell
L. White
Nays: None
The following bills were presented:
Board Meeting April 18, 2023
Hand Paid:
Menards New Restroom Materials $ 27.70
Aflac Employee Insurance Premiums $ 559.86
Homan, Rick / Marie Deposit Refund $ 452.00
Essex, Michelle Deposit Refund $ 180.00
Rich, Matthew A Deposit Refund $ 218.00
Schrader Used Cars Deposit Refund $ 100.00
Davis, Travis C Deposit Refund Less Final $ 185.20
Rundquist, Amanda/Paul Credit on Acct $ 88.99
Brice Rentals LLC Credit on Acct $ 44.54
Boyd, Michelle Credit on Acct $ 1.00
Lane, Gary Deposit Refund $ 197.00
Lee, Martha Deposit Refund $ 100.00
Patrick, Diane Deposit Refund $ 142.00
Perez, Juan Alberto Ascencio Deposit Refund $ 1,700.00
Radhey Lodging Inc Deposit Refund $ 5,000.00
Stump, Nicole Deposit Refund $ 384.00
Vantiger, Whitney Deposit Refund $ 230.00
Ball, Denise / Rick Deposit Refund $ 223.00
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April 18, 2023
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Boyd, Hannah Deposit Refund $ 110.00
Elmore, Ashley Deposit Refund $ 236.00
Garcia, Abraham Deposit Refund $ 177.00
Gillis, Sharon Deposit Refund $ 88.00
Hatfield, Kari Deposit Refund $ 292.00
Henkel, Matt Deposit Refund $ 473.00
Hull, Elizabeth Deposit Refund $ 168.00
Vroom, Stacey Deposit Refund Less Final $ 99.85
Reserve Account Postage $ 1,000.00
Mt. Pleasant Utilities Employee Utility Bills $ 53.76
SE Iowa Union MP News Sub. 12 Month $ 149.00
Access Systems Leasing Copier Maintenance Agreement $ 535.58
Windstream Monthly Services $ 156.90
Menards Fly Strips / Mosquito Traps $ 216.41
Capital One Courtesy $ 20.93
Federal Express Shipping $ 57.87
Resale Power Group of Iowa Wholesale Electric Feb ’23 $ 451,952.08
Windstream Monthly Services $ 152.71
Lucas, Nathan Mileage Reimbursement $ 161.14
Fuller, Jody Mileage Reimbursement $ 199.12
Federal Express Shipping $ 95.62
Aplara, Mike Meal Reimbursement $ 16.96
Hildebrand, Keith Online Course Reimbursement $ 160.00
Kreutner, Kris Sterlingnow Background Ck Reim $ 65.00
Martin Equipment – IL 2023 JD 310Sl Loader Backhoe $ 38,500.00
Menards New Restroom Materials $ 1,186.44
Federal Express Shipping $ 96.66
Alliant Energy Monthly Services $ 4,835.33
Alliant Energy Monthly Services $ 424.16
Adams, Tony Mileage Reimbursement $ 113.32
Hildebrand, Keith Mileage Reimbursement $ 166.37
Rich, Loren Meal / Mileage Reimbursement $ 169.67
HR Green Inc. Well #7 Engineering – CAP $ 8,167.33
Hy-Vee Courtesy $ 57.50
City of Mt. Pleasant Sewer / Trash / Landfill Collections $ 144,825.50
Mt. Pleasant Utilities Employee Utility Bills $ 53.76
Assurity Life Insurance Employee Insurance Premiums $ 56.28
Alliant Energy Monthly Services $ 22.51
Natel Monthly Services $ 809.60
Tools Direct of North America Iron Blades / Rescue Utility Blade $ 613.79
Fuller, Jody Mileage Reimbursement $ 155.24
Windstream Monthly Services $ 98.44
US Cellular Monthly Services $ 375.33
Access Systems Leasing Repairs $ 55.00
Federal Express Shipping $ 30.58
Adams, Tony Mileage Reimbursement $ 117.90
Menards New Restroom Materials $ 580.22
Federal Express Shipping $ 126.13
Credit Bureau Services of IA CBSI’S Share of Feb 23 Collections $ 221.68
Credit Bureau Services of IA CBSI’S Share of Feb 23 Collections $ 31.18
Adams, Tony Mileage Reimbursement $ 187.99
Hand Paid Bills Total: $ 668,548.13
Electronic Payments:
IRS Federal Tax Deposit $ 22,254.78
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IRS Federal Tax Deposit $ 24,280.08
IPERS IPERS Tax Deposit $ 27,892.35
Iowa Dept. of Revenue Sales + Use Tax Deposit $ 24,045.74
Iowa Dept. of Revenue Water Excise Tax $ 8,844.87
Iowa Dept. of Revenue State Tax Deposit $ 6,321.10
EBS Insurance Insurance Benefits $ 47,485.76
PCS Hardware Support $ 955.75
Visa Misc. Supplies $ 2,325.45
Electronic Payments: Total: $ 164,405.88
EBS Deduct. Buydowns:
Hillcrest Family Services Ck. #480502843 $ 107.00
Caroline M. Beebe LPC Ck. #480502844 $ 118.00
Hy Vee Pharmacy 1433 Ck. #480502845 $ 138.70
Avera Midwest Ck. #480502846 $ 148.71
Avera Mckennan Hospital Ck. #480502847 $ 982.07
HCHC Ck. #480502848 $ 1,207.15
Iowa City Ambulatory Ck. #480502849 $ 3,742.27
Employee Ck. #480502850 $ 0.94
Employee Ck. #480502851 $ 17.63
SE IA Regional Medical Ck. #480502852 $ 23.06
JCHC Ck. #480502853 $ 80.00
Employee Ck. #480502854 $ 119.62
Employee Ck. #480502855 $ 126.00
JCHC Ck. #480502856 $ 135.00
Muhammad Wahab MD Ck. #480502857 $ 194.00
Mercy Hospital Ck. #480502858 $ 1,243.47
Henry County EMS Ck. #480502859 $ 1,398.00
Employee Ck. #480502860 $ 3.55
Employee Ck. #480502861 $ 4.06
Employee Ck. #480502862 $ 26.89
Employee Ck. #480502863 $ 2,291.34
Employee Ck. #480502864 $ 29.50
Employee Ck. #480502865 $ 21.69
Employee Ck. #480502866 $ 24.09
Advance Chiro. Center PC Ck. #480502867 $ 45.75
HCHC Ck. #480502868 $ 46.93
Employee Ck. #480502869 $ 148.69
Kauffman Chiro. Center Ck. #480502870 $ 91.50
Lynne A. Vestal LMHC Ck. #480502871 $ 106.00
Hillcrest Family Services Ck. #480502872 $ 107.00
Community Medical Supply Inc. Ck. #480502873 $ 107.60
Caroline M. Beebe LPC Ck. #480502874 $ 118.00
WCHC Ck. #480502875 $ 162.45
Employee Ck. #480502876 $ 357.10
Family Practice Ck. #480502777 $ 1,512.00
Erin W. Rasmussen MD Ck. #480502778 $ 2,315.39
Employee Ck. #480502779 $ 4.12
Kauffman Chiro. Center Ck. #480502880 $ 45.75
Weber Chiropractic PLC Ck. #480502881 $ 65.00
Family Medicine of Mt. Pleasant Ck. #480502882 $ 187.50
WCHC Ck. #480502883 $ 230.00
Employee Ck. #480502884 $ 256.67
Carol A. Menke PA Ck. #480502885 $ 305.00
Employee Ck. #480502886 $ 815.48
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HCHC Ck. #480502887 $ 1,288.88
Mercy Clinics Inc. Ck. #480502888 $ 1,590.00
Mercy Hospital Ck. #480502889 $ 3,108.15
EBS Deduct. Buydowns: Total $ 25,197.70
Warrant List:
A & M Truck Service Repair – Unit #16 / 17 $ 2,735.74
Agri-Center Hose $ 5.20
Ahlers Cooney Attorneys Legal Services $ 2,340.00
Altorfer Inc. Power System Maintenance Agreement / Freight (2) $ 7,948.11
American Public Power Assc Utility Membership $ 5,183.57
Breuer Towing Towing – Unit #18 $ 309.75
Brown’s Shoe Fit FR Clothing $ 291.02
C + M Plumbing Nipple / Adapter $ 7.82
Cahoy Pump Service APP #14 – Well #7 – CAP $ 43,225.00
Cobb Oil Diesel / Gasohol (6) $ 4,225.57
CodeWorks Software Software Support $ 790.00
Courtesy Door Door Lube $ 36.00
Culligan of Burlington Courtesy $ 45.30
Dairyland Power Cooperative March Billing Statements (6) $ 2,875.97
Dave’s Lock & Key Keys – Made $ 75.00
Detrick’s Truck & Trailer Repair – Unit #17 $ 623.51
Douds Stone Roadstone 3/4″ / 1″ – CAP (4) $ 5,642.42
Electronic Engineering Door Magnet Contacts $ 65.20
Fastenal Company Hardware $ 21.93
Fletcher Reinhardt Crossarms / CT’s / Sleeves / Rod (2) $ 6,771.92
Frank Millard and Company Testing Backflow Preventers $ 487.50
Fye Excavating Inc. Henry – Work/Rock Hauling-CAP (2) $ 18,448.43
Gamrath-Doyle-Vens Cyber Insurance Renewal $ 6,548.00
Hach Company Chemicals (2) $ 751.68
Hawkin’s Water Treatment Chemicals (3) $ 14,012.22
HCHC Drug & Alcohol Testing $ 92.00
HR Green Inc. Well #7 Drilling/Engineering-CAP (2) $ 15,278.82
IAMU Facility Design / Safety Training (2) $ 4,631.08
Ideal Ready Mix Concrete / Kool Rod $ 877.56
Idexx Distribution Corp. Comparator / Vessels $ 71.70
Irby Harness Return $ (229.73)
John Deere Financial Fittings / Fuel (6) $ 301.03
Kempker’s True Value Fittings / Paint / Brushes (11) $ 200.27
Latham,Ervin,Vognsen Consulting Services – CAP $ 2,250.00
Linde Cylinder Rental $ 65.86
Mt. Hamill Lumber Returned Boards / Adhesive/Cord (4) $ (90.75)
Municipal Supply Misc. Main Supplies SRII’s /Rings (3) $ 66,853.80
Pitney Bowes Ink Cartridges $ 182.58
Powercon Corp Adams Sub. Renovation – CAP $ 332,355.45
Precision Collision Repair – Unit #3 $ 348.78
Quill Ink Cartridges Soap (4) $ 436.50
Resco Seals / Bucket Hooks (4) $ 1,801.59
Safeguard Business Systems Envelopes $ 376.37
SE Iowa Union Legals / CCR (3) $ 1,120.82
Shermco Industries Adams Sub. Engineering – CAP (2) $ 3,832.30
Solomon Corporation Transformers $ 93,042.92
State Hygienic Lab. Water Testing $ 135.00
Swailes Auto Supply Drill Bits / Hydro Oil (7) $ 309.63
T & R Electric Transformer Returns $ (4,839.00)
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April 18, 2023
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T.H.E. Company Filter Return $ (43.01)
UnityPoint Clinic Pre – Employment Drug Screen $ 42.00
USA Blue Book Digital Stirrer $ 328.69
Van Meter Fuses $ 408.11
Van Wert Inc. Electric Meters $ 8,505.18
Veolia EDR – Well #6 Upgrade – CAP (3) $ 155,504.00
Watersmith Engineering Engineering – Henry St. – CAP (2) $ 548.00
Wemiga Waste Co. Trash $ 183.75
Wilson Distributor Service Meter Tags $ 615.92
Zoro Tax Credit $ (102.20)
Warrant List: Total: $ 808,861.88
Grand Total: $ 1,677,013.59
It was moved by Michelle Rosell and seconded by Lori White that they dispense with
the reading of the bills, and that the bills, as presented be approved and warrants be
drawn on the Treasurer in payment of same.
Roll call on the motion was as follows: Ayes: D. McCabe
H. Ungerman
D. George
M. Rosell
L. White
Nays: None
Treasurer’s Report: Jody Fuller presented the Treasurer’s Report to the Board, to
include the following financial statements for the month of March 2023; P & L Budget
Performance, Statement of Financial Income & Expense, and Statement of Financial
Position.
It was moved by Lori White and seconded by Harvey Ungerman to approve the
Treasurer’s Report as presented.
Roll call on the motion was as follows: Ayes: D. McCabe
H. Ungerman
D. George
M. Rosell
L. White
Nays: None
Jody Fuller presented to the Board Resolution 2023-01 establishing revised commercial
and industrial demand rates due to an increase in the transmission rate from MidContinent Independent System Operator (MISO), and a decrease in the wheeling rate
from Northeast Missouri Power Cooperative (NEMO) and an increase in the
transmission and reservation rate from Resale Power Groupe of Iowa (RPGI).
After Board review, it was moved by Harvey Ungerman and seconded by David George
to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2023-01 – RESOLUTION INCREASING THE
CUSTOMER DEMAND RATE (DM-031) AND THE CUSTOMER INDUSTRIAL
DEMAND RATE (ID-033) AS A RESULT OF AN INCREASE IN THE MOUNT
PLEASANT MUNICIPAL UTILITIES’ PURCHASED POWER RATE.
WHEREAS, Mt. Pleasant Municipal Utilities, “MPMU”, has received an increase in the
transmission rate from Mid-Continent Independent System Operator (MISO), and a
decrease in the wheeling rate from Northeast Missouri Power Cooperative (NEMO), and
an increase in the transmission and reservation rate from Resale Power Group of Iowa
(RPGI), all rates being components of MPMU’s purchased power rate, and all rates
combining for a net increase in MPMU’s purchased power cost, and
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WHEREAS, MPMU desires to pass on said net cost increase to its customers,
including appropriate margin, to ensure revenues adequately cover its operational
expenses,
NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF
MPMU AS FOLLOWS:
1. The net increase and necessary margin in purchased power cost shall be passed
on to MPMU’s customers
2. The adjusted rate for Commercial Demand shall be $ 16.70041 per kW
3. The adjusted rate for Industrial Demand shall be $ 16.70041 per kW
4. These rates shall be effective for billings after July 1, 2023
5. All prior Resolutions, actions, and orders of MPMU which conflict in whole, or in
part, with any of the provisions of this Resolution, are hereby repealed
Roll call on the motion was as follows: Ayes: D. McCabe
H. Ungerman
D. George
M. Rosell
L. White
Nays: None
Jody Fuller presented to the Board Resolution 2023-02 adjusting the electrical rates and
rate structure as of billing statements issued after July 1, 2023.
After Board review, it was moved by David George and seconded by Michelle Rosell to
approve RESOLUTION NO. 2023 – 02 – RESOLUTION ADJUSTING ELECTRICAL
RATES AND RATE STRUCTURE AS OF BILLING STATEMENTS ISSUED AFTER
JULY 1, 2023.
WHEREAS, the Mt. Pleasant Municipal Utilities management has conducted an electric
rate study for the purpose of revising the existing electric rate structure to reflect current
industry standards to include, condensing the number of steps contained within each
individual rate block, which is the more modern method to structure rates, and
WHEREAS, the condensed steps contained within the revised rate blocks
produce in some cases an increase in some customer’s bills and in other cases produce
a decrease in other customer’s bills, with the overall goal of ensuring revenues
adequately cover MPMU’s operational expenses, and
WHEREAS, in conjunction with the said electric rate study, the base fee charges
(fixed facility costs), contained within each rate class, were analyzed and adjusted to
reflect the actual cost of providing electric service on a monthly basis to each individual
rate class, and
WHEREAS, at two previous public board meetings the proposed new electrical
rate structure was reviewed, there were no written objections or comments received,
and no one appeared at said public board meetings to object or comment, and
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees, “BoT”, has considered all these factors and
has determined that the following rates are appropriate, and
WHEREAS, the BoT resolves to establish a new rate structure, and
NOW, THEREFORE, it is hereby resolved by the MPMU’s BoT as follows:
1. Beginning with billing statements issued after July 1, 2023, the classifications
and rates for each as shown on attached “Exhibit A” shall be in effect.
2. The term “demand” shall mean the following: billing demand shall be the sum
of the highest integrated kW demand during any 15 consecutive minute
period occurring in the billing month, but not less than 50% of the highest 15
consecutive minute integrated kW demand which has occurred in the
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April 18, 2023
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preceding 11 months, whichever is greater. Individual rate classes, which are
subject to demand charges, shall be assessed a monthly minimum demand
base fee, as shown on attached “Exhibit A”.
3. Should MPMU receive any additional increases in its purchased power rate,
such increases, to the extent that they are passed on to the MPMU’s
customers by subsequent Resolutions, shall appear on the customer’s bill as
a special item with the notation of “Purchased Power Rate Adjustment”. On or
before each July 1, beginning with July 1, 2023, MPMU shall reduce any such
automatic adjustments to zero and shall incorporate any such automatic
adjustment of rate and charges into MPMU’s rates, and shall file, if required to
do so, documentation with the Iowa Utilities Board.
4. A monthly bill shall be rendered to each electric customer and said bill shall
be on a combined utility bill which will bill said customer for electric charges
as herein set forth and for water, sewer, solid waste and landfill charges – if
said customer is receiving those services from either MPMU or from the City
of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, or if the customer is otherwise obligated for the
payment of such charges.
5. The provisions of Resolution No. 2022-04 passed by the BoT on February 15,
2022, concerning the adoption of an official Utility Service Rule Book for the
Mount Pleasant Municipal Utilities, concerning bill payment terms – date
rendered, date of delinquency, and late payment charges and one
forgiveness thereof – are incorporated herein and shall be applicable to any
bill rendered by MPMU.
6. This Resolution shall be published in the Mt. Pleasant News pursuant to
sections 384.84(8)(a)(1) and 362.3 of the 2023 Code of Iowa.
7. All prior Resolutions, actions, and orders of the BoT which conflict in whole, or
in part, with any of the provisions of this Resolution, are hereby repealed.
“Exhibit A”
MPMU ELECTRIC RATES- Effective for billings after 7-1-2023
Residential Base Fee – All residential meters are assessed $1.00 per day accumulating to a maximum of
$16.00 per month.
Residential Electric (RE) – 020 (7% tax) -and- 021 (1% tax)
All kWh $0.1125 per kWh
Residential Electric Heat – Two Meter Service (RH) – 019 (1% tax) Not avail. to new accounts
Heat Meter only – All energy $0.1125 per kWh
Household Meter – Same rate as Residential Electric (RE) – 021
One Meter Service (RC) – 022 (7% tax) -and- 023 (1% tax)
All kWh $0.1125 per kWh
Commercial Base Fee – Non-demand small commercial meters are assessed $1.25 per day accumulating
to a maximum of $35.00 per month. Non-demand large commercial meters are assessed$2.75 per day
accumulating to a maximum of $75.00 per month.
Small Commercial Electric (CE) – 024 (7% tax)
All kWh $0.1475 per kWh
Large Commercial Electric (CE) – 025 (7% tax)
First 6000 kWh $0.1475 per kWh
All Over 6000 kWh $0.1050 per kWh
Small Commercial Electric Combined (CC) – 026 (7% tax)
First 2000 kWh $0.1475 per kWh
All Over 2000 kWh $0.1050 per kWh
Large Commercial Electric Combined (CC) – 027 (7% tax)
First 6000 kWh $0.1475 per kWh
All Over 6000 kWh $0.1050 per kWh
Commercial Demand (7% tax) – Effective after 7-1-2023
Commercial Demand Base Fee – Minimum of $150.00
For 3-phase service with >= 100 kVa and < 1,500 kVa monthly demand
* Demand (DM) – 031 $16.70041 per kW
Energy (DM) – 032 $0.0750 per kWh
Industrial Demand (7% tax) – Effective after 7-1-2023
Industrial Demand Base Fee – Minimum of $1,500.00 or $1.00 per kVa of tranformation
requirement, whichever is greater
For 3-phase service with > 1,500 kVa monthly demand
* Demand (ID) – 033 $16.70041 per kW
Energy (ID) – 034 $0.0750 per kWh
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Security Lights (SL) (7% tax)
With New Pole – $19.00 With Existing Pole – $14.50
Roll call on the motion was as follows: Ayes: D. McCabe
H. Ungerman
D. George
M. Rosell
L. White
Nays: None
Legal: None
Operations:
Well #7 Cedar Lane Well and Water Distribution System Design Project:
Package #1 – In late March, the drilling rig broke down at a depth of 1865’, only 35’ from
the bottom of the well. The drive for the top head assembly of the rig had to be removed
for repairs. Repairs are expected to be completed by the 21st of April.
Package #2 – Woodruff is making progress in equipping the well, most of the work is
complete and the water line from the pump house to the distribution main that was
installed last year is being completed. They will be working with Cahoy to bring the pipe
from the pump house to the top of the well.
E Henry St Water Main Project: We began construction of this replacement project on
East Henry. Approximately half of the water main has been installed. No new progress
due to currently working on West Henry. The Utilities will return to East Henry after work
is finished on West Henry.
Adams Street Substation 15 kV Sheltered Aisle Switchgear Replacement Project: The
Utilities is currently working with timelines and contractors on the demolition of the old
substation.
Transmission System Power Supply Project: A meeting has been arranged with NEP on
Wednesday, April 19th, 2023, to continue the negotiations with the Utilities.
Monthly Activities:
Electric line crew employees have been working on Osmose Pole Treatment reports
and pole replacements.
Water crew employees have spent most of their time working on the water main
replacement and service tie overs on W. Henry Street.
Miscellaneous Activities:
We experienced one electric system outage and one water main break during the
month of March.
Electric department employees installed 3 new electric services in the month of March.
Customers: None
Employees: None
Other Business: At 1:28 p.m. Chairman Dan McCabe invited a motion to move into
closed session and Board member Harvey Ungerman seconded that the Board
adjourns to closed session pursuant to Section 388.9 and Section 21.5(1)(a)(k) of the
Iowa Code to discuss certain proprietary information and pricing strategies that is
related to electronic transmission planning and construction required to be kept
confidential pursuant to non-disclosure agreements and that is also related to critical
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9 Page
infrastructure, the disclosure of which information would harm the competitive position
of MPMU, increase the vulnerability of critical infrastructure, and serve no public
purpose.
Roll call on the motion was as follows: Ayes: D. McCabe
H. Ungerman
D. George
M. Rosell
L. White
Nays: None
2:36 p.m. a motion was made by Lori White and seconded by Michelle Rosell that the
Board return to open session.
Roll call on the motion was as follows: Ayes: D. McCabe
H. Ungerman
D. George
M. Rosell
L. White
No action was taken following the closed session involving the subject matter of the
closed session.
It was moved by Michelle Rosell and seconded by David George to adjourn the
meeting.
Roll call on the motion was as follows: Ayes: D. McCabe
H. Ungerman
D. George
M. Rosell
L. White
Nays: None

The next regular board meeting will be on Tuesday, May 16th, at 1:00 p.m

A Look at the Cast from Southeastern Iowa for the Drake Relays

Drake Relays- The Drake Relays officially get underway tomorrow, but the high school events won’t begin until Thursday with the 3200 and the field events. Here’s a look at some of the local athletes competing in Des Moines this year.

Mt. Pleasant will be competing in the girls 4×100 meter relay. Will Davidson will be competing in three events with the 100 meter dash, the 110 meter hurdles, and the 400 meter hurdles. Davidson has hit the Blue Oval Standards in the 110 meter hurdles with a best time of 14.67 seconds and the 400 meter hurdles with a time of 54.67 seconds. The 4×100 relay team will also be competing for the Panthers. Lastly, Isaac Jerrel will toss the shot put on Thursday. Jerrel’s best heave is 52 feet and 1 inch. The Blue Oval Standard is 54 feet.

Winfield-Mt. Union will have two Wolves competing with Gabriel Hemsworth running in the 400 meter hurdles and Cam Buffington leaping into the long jump. Hemsworth’s personal best is 54.40 seconds and Buffington’s best jump is 22 feet and 2.25 inches.

Boden Pickle will be participating in the 100 meter dash and Kade Benjamin will look to fly in the high jump for New London. Both have cleared the Blue Oval Standards this year.

Central Lee and Danville will each have one participant. Thomas Eschman will compete in the long jump for the Hawks. His best leap is 22 feet and 0.75 inches. For the Bears, AJ Bonnesen will show off his endurance in the 3200 meter run. Bonnesen’s best run beats the Blue Oval Standard by almost four seconds.

The field events will start with the discus at 2:30 pm on Thursday. For a full list of the schedule, click on this link: Drake Relays Schedule. For a full list of the competitors, click on this link: Drake Relays Competitors.

High School Track and Field Qualifying Sites and Assignments

State Track and Field- The joint state qualifying sites for track and field were released on April 10th, but now the assignments have been released.

WACO will be one of ten host sites for the qualifying meet for Class 1A. Danville, New London, and Winfield-Mt. Union will be a part of the 14-team crowd at WACO.

In Class 2A, Tipton will host 12 teams in their qualifying meet. Central Lee and Mediapolis will make the trip and one of the top discus throwers in the state, Spencer Kessel, will be at the meet with Louisa-Muscatine.

Mt. Pleasant will host their qualifying meet with conference foes Fairfield, Fort Madison, Keokuk, and Washington also making the trip. Clear Creek-Amana, Solon, and West Burlington/Notre Dame will round out the meet.

The state qualifying meet is scheduled to run on May 11th if the weather permits.

Iowa Wesleyan University to Celebrate 2023 Graduates on May 6

Iowa Wesleyan University will celebrate the graduating class of 2023 with its Spring and final Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at 1:30 pm. 

Commencement will provide an opportunity to recognize over 120 undergraduate and graduate students for their academic accomplishments. Abena Sankofa Imhotep, Director of Sankofa Literary & Empowerment Group and Sankofa Strategies Counseling, will be the commencement speaker. A celebration song, written by graduating senior Journey Allison, will be performed by the IW Choir. 

Alumni & Friends, and their families, are also invited and encouraged to join us in the Ruble Arena on May 6, 2023, at 1:30 pm to celebrate the final Iowa Wesleyan graduating class. A live stream will also be available on the Iowa Wesleyan YouTube channel, and KILJ Radio will air it live on 105.5 FM and kilj.com.

Linda K. Dodd

Linda K. Dodd, 66, of Bonaparte, formerly of Mt. Pleasant, died Monday, April 24, 2023 at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City.

Funeral arrangements are pending at the Kimzey Funeral Home, 213 North Main Street, Mount Pleasant.

Online condolences may be directed to www.kimzeyfh.com.

IOWA FARM BUREAU AWARDS $230,000 IN COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS TO IOWA STUDENTS 

Farm Bureau announces 116 current and future college students as scholarship recipients

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa—April 24, 2023—To support students seeking opportunities in the agricultural industry, the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) has awarded scholarships to 116 students continuing their educational pursuits following high school.

“Iowa agriculture is a dynamic industry with countless opportunities. IFBF is honored to support students pursuing an education in agriculture or in one that will play a significant role in advancing Iowa’s farms and rural communities,” said IFBF Community Resources Manager Ronnette Vondrak.  “One in five jobs in Iowa is tied to agriculture, and innovation continues to bring about exciting new opportunities and career paths for the next generation.  Iowa agriculture leads the nation in production, research and innovation, and Iowa Farm Bureau is proud to support these students with a quarter of a million dollars in scholarships for the next school year as they pursue their goals and dreams.”

Twenty-seven scholarships were awarded to first-time recipients who are planning to obtain a two- or four-year degree at an accredited higher education institution. This includes community colleges and technical schools. Eligibility is based on Farm Bureau membership, academic achievement, financial need, community and extracurricular involvement and letters of recommendation. Additionally, students prepared an essay outlining their commitment to rural Iowa. These students

Argyle, Everlee Harvey, Leonard & Tonya Harvey, Iowa State University

Farmington, Nehemiah Westercamp, Steven & Christine Westercamp, Iowa State University

Sperry, Jack Myers, Chad & Joni Myers, Iowa State University

Scholarships are renewable up to four years for students who maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.5 and are in good standing with the organization.  IFBF approved 88 scholarships for renewal in 2023.

In addition, Tinley McLain of Milton received the Daniel Johnson Memorial Scholarship, a one-time $500 scholarship award for a student residing in southeast Iowa. Johnson is a former Iowa Farm Bureau director, farmer, volunteer firefighter and school board president.

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About Iowa Farm Bureau

The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation is the largest statewide, grassroots farm organization in Iowa, celebrating 100 years of creating a vibrant future for agriculture, farm families and their communities.  For more information, visit www.iowafarmbureau.com.

 

 

 

 

Sports, April 25th

High School Track and Field

The Mt. Pleasant girls and boys teams will travel to compete in the Keokuk Relays today.

The Central Lee boys and girls teams will be competing at the Keokuk Relays tonight.

The boys and girls teams of WACO, and Winfield-Mt. Union will travel to Sigourney to compete in a meet today.

The boys and girls teams of Danville and New London will compete in the Chris Selby Invitational hosted by New London tonight.

High School Soccer

The Mt. Pleasant boys team lost to Washington last night 5-1. Jackson Newman scored the lone goal for the Panthers off an assist by Noah Lange. The Panthers will host Keokuk on April 27th.

The Mt. Pleasant girls team had a streak of 7 games in a row going to overtime against Washington snapped last night on senior night as the Panthers won 3-0. The lone senior being honored was Elly Manning and she put two goals in the back of the net. Manning talked about how that felt after the game,

“It’s so nice I mean, obviously, I just wanted us to win. I told them before the game I don’t really care personally I just said for my senior night, let’s not go into overtime, let’s get it done, 80 minutes!”

The Panthers will travel to face off against Keokuk on April 27th and Coach Stribe discussed what he’s hoping to see his from his team down the stretch,

“The last couple of games, the Burlington game the first 40 minutes, Fort Madison I think the first 60 minutes, I thought we played really really good soccer and we just kind of had that mental lapse and that’s all it takes. One minute and it’s over. Just so proud of this group to be able to see them play the full 80 minutes, get the three goals, keep the clean sheet, do all the things we know we can do. It’s definitely going to be a big confidence builder for this group and hopefully we can keep building on this.”

The WACO boys team fell to Central Lee last night 5-1. Dante Merschman had a hat trick for the Hawks. The Warriors will look to get back in the win column on April 28th against Columbus at home. The Hawks will take on Centerville on April 27th at home.

The Central Lee girls team will compete against Fort Madison tonight.

High School Golf

Winfield-Mt. Union faced off against Highland last night and the boys team came out on top 208-196. The top golfer for the Wolves was Carter Loyd with a 42 on the day. The girls team fell 235-218 to Highland with Afton Wilkerson leading the way for the Wolves. The boys team will compete in the West Liberty Invitational tomorrow and the girls team will face off against New London on April 28th.

The Mt. Pleasant boys team traveled to Fort Madison yesterday and Washington finished in 1st place as a team with Roman Roth leading the way with a score of 38. Nate Dismang led the way with a 43 and Nick Matheny followed right behind with a 44 as the Panthers finished in 3rd. The Panthers will compete at the Oskaloosa Invite today.

The Mt. Pleasant girls team will host their Invitational on April 28th.

The New London boys team will face off against Winfield-Mt. Union on April 28th.

The Central Lee girls and boys teams will take on Danville on April 27th.

High School Tennis

The Mt. Pleasant girls team lost to Fort Madison yesterday 6-3. Bethany Drury and Audrey Richmond picked up all the wins for the Panthers as they won their singles matches and combined to win their doubles match 8 to 1. The Panthers will travel to Fairfield on April 27th.

The Mt. Pleasant boys team continue to stay undefeated on the year as the Panthers shut down Fort Madison 9-0 yesterday. Tim Cam shutout his opponent in both sets with Phoenix Watson, Elliot Cook, and Jake Ensmiger shutting out their opponent in one set. The Panthers will host Fairfield on April 27th.

Iowa Wesleyan Athletics

The Tiger softball team’s next game will be a doubleheader against Viterbo University today on the road. Alexis Davis was named Continental Athletic Conference Hitter of the Week. Davis went 7 for 8 in their doubleheader against Waldorf, which included a grand slam in the first game as she concluded the weekend with 5 RBIs.

The Tiger baseball team will take on Missouri Baptist University today.

The men’s golf team’s next competition will be at the Continental Athletic Conference championships on May 1st. The women’s team will compete in day two of the Mount Mercy Invitational today.

The outdoor track and field teams will compete at the Drake Relays tomorrow, April 26th.

This Day in Sports History

1950 – Chuck Cooper becomes the 1st African American to be drafted into the NBA (for Boston Celtics).

1981 – Seattle Mariners MLB manager Maury Wills is suspended for 2 games after ordering Kingdome grounds crew to enlarge batter’s boxes by one foot.

1989 – Penguin Mario Lemuix tied NHL playoff record of 4 goals in 1st period.

 

 

Gov. Reynolds Issues Disaster Proclamation for Mississippi River Counties 

DES MOINES — Today, Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation for 10 counties in response to flooding along the Mississippi River. The governor’s proclamation allows state resources to be utilized to respond to and recover from the effects of flooding in Allamakee, Clayton, Clinton, Des Moines, Dubuque, Jackson, Lee, Louisa, Muscatine, and Scott counties. 

 

Also today, Gov. Reynolds instructed the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEMD) to activate the State Emergency Operations Center in Johnston in order to coordinate the state’s response activities. HSEMD is working with county emergency management, state, and federal partners to monitor conditions and provide resources to those areas impacted by flooding. 

 

Iowans who live along the Mississippi River are urged to prepare for possible flooding by having a plan to evacuate if necessary, packing an emergency kit with supplies for several days, staying informed about flood forecasts for their communities, and following information and guidance issued by local officials. 

 

For more information about flood safety and preparedness, visit ready.iowa.gov/floods.