The Mount Pleasant City Council met in regular session Wednesday evening, beginning the meeting by approving the consent agenda. Items included alcohol license renewals and annual requests from Midwest Old Threshers and the Midwest Central Railroad for amplified sound, permission to sell alcohol on the grounds, and use of McMillan Park during Old Threshers events. The council also approved the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting.
Before discussion began on Old Business, Police Chief Lyle Murray addressed a crowd of roughly 25 people regarding a proposed amendment to the city’s ordinance on feeding animals, which has drawn public attention in recent weeks. Chief Murray explained the ordinance has been in place since the 1980s and that feeding feral cats has long been prohibited. The amendment, he said, would allow the city to assess a fee only after multiple warnings within a two-year period. Murray noted the situation typically arises once or twice a year and is complaint-driven, adding that enforcement would remain limited. He also highlighted the city’s partnership with All God’s Creatures, which provides care for stray animals at a cost of approximately $1,200 per month.
Several residents spoke during public comments. Ann Klingensmith encouraged residents who feed feral cat colonies to educate themselves and pointed to AlleyCat.org as a resource for responsible feeding practices. Sam Riepe also addressed the council, stating that the chief’s explanation should help ease concerns among residents. Following discussion, the council approved the ordinance amendment.
The meeting concluded with approval of a request from the Main Street Mount Pleasant Exterior Improvement Grant Program, an alcohol permit for The Grange, and a resolution appointing Mayor Steve Brimhall to the Southeast Iowa Regional Planning Commission Loan Review Committee.
The Mount Pleasant City Council will meet again on February 11, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.