Henry County Supervisors Board of Supervisors June 26, 2025 9:00 a.m.

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 at 10:09 am CDT

Henry County Supervisors

100 E Washington St Ste 202

Mt Pleasant IA  52641

Fax: 319-385-3601

 

  Chad White, Vice-Chair               Marc Lindeen, Chairman               Steven Detrick, Member    

           319-385-0759                                 319-385-0760                                     319-385-0761________                        

 

AGENDA

Board of Supervisors

June 26, 2025

9:00 a.m.

  • Agenda
  • Approve Minutes
  • Approve Claims
  • County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss Weekly Updates
  • Motion to Approve Contract with County Engineer
  • 3rd Final Reading of Alternative Energy Overly District
  • Discussion Open Burning Ordinance.
  • 1st Reading of Standard Penalties Amendment.

Supervisor’s Sub-Committees.

Raymond Edward Goehring

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 at 8:39 am CDT

Raymond Edward Goehring, 91, a resident of Fairfield, passed away Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Parkview Care Center in Fairfield.

Funeral services celebrating his life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 30, 2025 at First Lutheran Church in Fairfield with Rev. Nathaniel Adkins officiating. Burial will be at Memorial Lawn Cemetery in Fairfield. Visitation for family and friends will be 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Lutheran Church in care of the family at 1601 Dogwood Dr. Fairfield, Iowa 52556. Behner Funeral Home in Fairfield is assisting the family.

Ray was born July 1, 1933 in Jefferson County, the son of Andrew Louis and Hazel (Hill) Goehring. Ray served his country in the United States Army from 1954 – 1956 during the Korean War as a radio repairman in Germany. On October 7, 1956 in Fairfield, he married Letha Berg.

Throughout his life Ray worked for First National Bank from 1956-1966, worked in feed sales 1966-1967, managed Packwood Elevator 1967-1970, drove a school bus for Fairfield Community School District from 1970-1997; and was a farmer, specializing in purebred sheep from 1970-2008, showing at the Iowa State Fair for 31 years and other various national events. He also worked as the custodian for First Lutheran Church from 1991-2013.

Ray enjoyed jigsaw puzzles and collecting wood planes. Ray and Letha enjoyed many trips with Libertyville Travel Club and First National Travelers. He traveled on an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. in May 2013.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Letha; sons and daughters-in-law, David and Rhonda Goehring of Fairfield, and Mark and Margie Goehring of Fairfield; grandchildren, Amy, Nicole, Michelle, and Travis; and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Glen, Keith, Carroll, Karl, Fern, Darlene, and Mable.

Online condolences may be made to Ray’s family by viewing his obituary at www.behnerfh.com.

Iowa’s Hands-Free Driving Law Takes Effect July 1: What Drivers Need to Know

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 at 8:05 am CDT

Starting next Tuesday, July 1st, a new hands-free driving law goes into effect statewide.

The goal of the law is simple: to reduce distracted driving and make Iowa’s roads safer. But what exactly does “hands-free” mean?

Under the new law, drivers cannot hold their phone in any way while behind the wheel. That means no texting, no scrolling, no typing, and no manually entering an address into GPS while you’re driving.

You also won’t be allowed to stream videos, make video calls, or view social media — not even if you use voice commands to start them. And unless you’re using a hands-free or voice-activated feature, you can’t call, text, or dial at all.

And it’s not just your phone. The law applies to tablets, laptops, PDAs, and gaming devices as well.

So, how can you stay hands-free and legal?

  • You can use an auxiliary cable to connect your phone to your car’s speakers and control it with your voice or a single touch.
  • A vehicle mount can hold your phone in place so you can use voice commands safely.
  • Bluetooth® devices like earpieces or adapters are another option to stay connected without touching your phone.
  • And remember, speakerphone is free — just set your phone in a secure spot and use voice commands.

Law enforcement will be watching, and this will be a primary offense — meaning officers can pull you over just for using a device illegally.

Again, Iowa’s hands-free law takes effect Tuesday, July 1st. Plan ahead, drive safely, and keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.

For more information, visit the Iowa Department of Transportation’s website.

Fairfield Schools Seek Director of Operations to Help Keep District Running Smoothly

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 at 8:01 am CDT

The Fairfield Community School District is hiring! The district announced an opportunity for a dynamic and dedicated individual to join its leadership team as Director of Operations.

This vital role is responsible for overseeing key functions that ensure the smooth daily operation of schools, including transportation, facilities management, and district-wide operations. The Director of Operations will play an essential part in creating safe, efficient, and supportive environments for students, staff, and families.

“We’re looking for someone who is passionate about helping our schools succeed behind the scenes,” the district shared. “This position provides the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and in our community.”

Those interested in applying are encouraged to visit the district’s employment page at fairfieldsfuture.org to learn more about the position and submit an application.

Henry County Supervisors Narrow Focus of Burn Ordinance, Eye Simpler Rules for Red Flag Warnings

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 at 7:59 am CDT

The Henry County Board of Supervisors met on Monday in a public work session to hash out the details of a proposed burn ordinance. The Supervisors hope to move toward a simpler, more focused set of rules aimed at curbing dangerous burning during red flag warnings while minimizing unnecessary regulation on responsible landowners.

At the heart of the discussion was the desire to craft an ordinance that puts teeth into enforcement during periods of high fire danger, while relying on common sense and courtesy for routine burns. Supervisors agreed that the purpose section should be tightened up to reflect that goal.

Supervisors agreed that notification requirements could serve as a safeguard, helping alert residents to red flag conditions. Joe Buffington with Planning & Zoning said, “Sometimes people just don’t know there’s a red flag warning. If they call dispatch, they can be told, ‘Hey, you can’t burn today.’ That might stop a problem before it starts.”

Ideas discussed included requiring calls for burn piles over a certain size (such as 500 or 1,000 square feet) and combining related sections of the ordinance to avoid redundancy. The board also acknowledged the reality of fire behavior. “You can set up your burn pile however you want, but fire is fire. Mother Nature can take over pretty quickly,” one supervisor cautioned.

Despite differing views on some details, the supervisors appeared unified on the need for a straightforward ordinance that emphasizes safety during red flag conditions while respecting property owners’ good judgment. County staff will work on revised language, and the board expects to review a new draft at an upcoming meeting.

Fire Damages Rural Union Township Apartment; One Pet Lost, No Injuries Reported

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 at 7:58 am CDT

 The Burlington Fire Department responded to an apartment fire Monday evening that resulted in significant damage to a rural residence and the loss of a family pet.

At approximately 6:54 p.m. on June 23, 2025, emergency crews were dispatched to 3750 Old Highway 61 following reports of a fire at a four-plex apartment complex. Firefighters arrived on scene within six minutes and found flames visible from one of the units in the single-story building.

The residence, owned by Shipley Construction and insured at the time of the fire, housed multiple families. All occupants were able to evacuate safely before firefighters arrived. Unfortunately, one cat perished as a result of the blaze.

Firefighters were able to contain the fire to a single apartment unit, preventing further spread and damage to the rest of the structure. Notably, smoke alarms were not present in the affected unit.

The Burlington Fire Department received assistance at the scene from the West Burlington, Wever, Gladstone, and Denmark Fire Departments, as well as the Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office, Access Energy, and the American Red Cross. No injuries were reported among civilians or firefighters.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Burlington Fire Department and the Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the incident to contact the Burlington Fire Department at (319) 753-8396.

Fire Marshal Robert Berndt indicated that additional updates will be provided as the investigation continues.

Glen Wayne Woodsmall

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 at 7:57 am CDT

Glen Wayne Woodsmall, 75, of Salem, died Sunday, June 22, 2025 at Savannah Heights, Mt. Pleasant.  He was born in Mt. Pleasant on January 3, 1950 to Denzel LeRoy “Ike” and Mildred Mae Milks Woodsmall.  On January 19, 1975, he married Rhonda Rae Mills at Salem Friends Church.  She died November 21, 2023.

He was a graduate of Sigourney High School, then joined the Army and served two tours in Vietnam.  Following the service, he worked at The Fina gas station in Mt. Pleasant, the at Goodyear for several years before he became disabled.

He enjoyed watching NASCAR and spending time with his grandchildren.

Survivors include his daughter Sarabeth (Dr. Ben) Carter of New London; sons Nathan (Jill) of Winfield and Glen II (Angie) of Ankeny; ten grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; sister Glenda Woodsmall; and brothers Danny, Delbert, Donnie, Dale, David, Dennis and Doug.  He was preceded in death by his wife; parents; and nephew Danny Woodsmall Jr.

According to his wishes, his body has been cremated and a private inurnment along with his beloved wife, will be held at a later date at Burge Cemetery, New London.  Elliott Chapel, New London, is assisting the family and online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com.

Sports, June 24th

By Slaten Swords · Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 at 6:26 am CDT

High School Baseball

Burlington Notre Dame smacked New London last night 13-2. Gavin Menke-Bailey tallied the lone two RBIs for the Tigers, while Memphis Watson sprinted around the bases for a triple. 

New London will compete against Danville at Community Field tonight at 7:30 pm.

Van Buren County will take on Burlington Notre Dame tonight at 5:30 pm on the road. 

Danville hung in against BGM last night but came up short, falling 2-0. 

Mt. Pleasant has now won five of their last six games after pummeling Washington last night in their doubleheader, 14-4 in game one and 13-3 in game two. Zach Newton and Grayson Lowery collected the wins on the mound for the Panthers. 

Mt. Pleasant will host #6 Mediapolis tomorrow, June 25th, at 7 pm. KILJ 105.5 FM, kilj.com, will be on the call with the pregame show at 6:45 pm.

Wapello was whacked by Winfield-Mt. Union last night 12-0. Riley Kaalberg led the offensive effort with a double, a home run, and three RBIs, while Kason Dopler threw a one-hitter and tallied eight strikeouts in four innings of work. Wyatt Marlette picked up the lone hit.

Wapello will face off against Pekin on Thursday, June 26th, at 7 pm at home.

Winfield-Mt. Union will travel to Hillcrest Academy tomorrow at 5:30 pm.

Fairfield took care of business in game one of their doubleheader against Fort Madison last night, winning 11-0, but needed extras to put the Bloodhounds away in game two, taking it 5-4. Aiden Westercamp finished the night with a pair of doubles and four RBIs for the Trojans. Fairfield will attempt to spoil Washington’s senior night on Thursday with first pitch at 7:30 pm.

Central Lee will host West Burlington tonight at 5:30 pm.

#6 Mediapolis will take on Pekin at home at 7:30 pm tonight.

Postseason Baseball Brackets

The Iowa High School Athletic Association released the Class 1A and Class 2A postseason brackets with first pitch scheduled for 5 pm on Saturday, July 5th. Here’s the matchups for our local teams.

In Class 1A Substate 5 District 10, Danville and Van Buren County will be heading off to Moravia for the Saturday doubleheader. The Bears will square off against Moravia at 7 pm, while Van Buren County will start off the night at 5 pm.

On the bottom half of the bracket, Burlington Notre Dame will venture to New London to face off against Keota at 5 pm, while New London will host the nightcap against Wapello at 7 pm.

Moving to Class 2A Substate 4 District 7, Mediapolis earned a bye and will host the winner between West Liberty and Camanche on July 8th at 7 pm.

Over in Class 2A Substate 5 District 9, West Burlington and Louisa-Muscatine will meet up in Wilton at 5 pm in the battle of the Falcons. Winfield-Mt. Union will take on the hosts at 7 pm, where the winner will advance to compete against Central Lee on July 8th at 5 pm at Chariton Middle School.

The Class 3A and Class 4A brackets will be released this week. 

High School Softball

Mt. Pleasant was swept by #11 Washington last night at home, losing 19-5 in game one and 8-0 in game two. Parker Coleman pushed across two runs in the first contest. The Panthers will attempt to get back in the win column tomorrow, June 25th, at home against Cardinal with first pitch at 7 pm.

Fairfield escaped with a pair of conference victories last night, shutting out Fort Madison in game one 8-0 and handling the Bloodhounds in game two 12-4. Leah Helmick did it all, collecting two doubles, a home run, six RBIs, and nine strikeouts from the circle for a no-hit performance. The Trojans will host Cardinal tonight at 7:30 pm.

#14 Central Lee ran away with the 11-3 victory over Mediapolis last night after scoring seven unanswered runs. Avery Crear slapped a double for two RBIs in the losing effort. 

Mediapolis will take on Pekin tonight at 7 pm at home.

#14 Central Lee will look to cement their 1st-place lead in the Southeast Iowa Super Conference South Division tonight against West Burlington/Notre Dame at home with gametime at 7 pm.

WACO lost both games of their doubleheader to Lone Tree last night, 22-4 in game one and 12-1 in game two. The Warriors will travel to Highland tomorrow at 6 pm for a make-up game.

West Burlington/Notre Dame nearly squandered their three-run lead in the top of the 7th inning, but still managed to come out on top over Van Buren County 8-7. Lyndsey Kelley clobbered two doubles with four RBIs in the winning effort. 

Van Buren County will travel to Holy Trinity Catholic tonight at 7:30 pm.

Columbus will face off against Hillcrest Academy at 7 pm tonight on the road. 

Wapello will hit the road to take on #2 Louisa-Muscatine tonight at 7 pm. 

New London will make the trip to Columbus tomorrow at 7 pm.

Danville will contend with Fort Madison tomorrow at 5:30 pm at home.

High School Cross Country

The Mt. Pleasant Cross Country team’s summer runs are underway until their camp in mid-August. The runs are available to any 7th through 12th grader with paces and plans dependent on the level of experience. Coaches may not be present at every run as upperclassmen often lead the runs.

On Mondays and Wednesdays, the runs will begin at 6:30 am at the Old Threshers Museum Theatre. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the runs will begin at Saunders Park by the swimming pool at 7 pm. If you have any questions, then contact Coach Murray at 319-850-0867. 

Prospect League

The Burlington Bees will travel to the Illinois Valley Pistol Shrimp for a doubleheader rematch tonight with game one at 4:35 pm.

The Clinton LumberKings will host the Quincy Doggy Paddlers tonight at 6:30 pm.

This Day in Sports History

1922 – NFL club Chicago Staleys renamed itself the Chicago Bears by team founder, owner and head coach George Halas.

2010 – In the longest match in tennis history, John Isner defeats Nicolas Mahut at Wimbledon after 11 hours and 5 minutes of play over 3 days.

2017 – World record for highest altitude football match ever played at 18,799ft on Mount Kilimanjaro by Volcano FC and Glacier FC; the game was put on to raise awareness and highlight the inequality between male and female sports.