Gov. Reynolds declares disaster proclamation for Plymouth County
Governor Kim Reynolds has issued a disaster proclamation for five Iowa counties, including Plymouth County, in response to severe weather that occurred on Monday. Clay, Palo Alto, Buchanan, and Henry Counties are also covered by the proclamation, and is in effect for the next 30 days unless terminated or extended.
Reynolds’ proclamation allows state resources to be utilized to respond to, and recover from, the effects of the severe weather and activates the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program and the Disaster Case Advocacy Program for all five counties. The programs provides grants up to $7,000 for households with incomes up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level, and addresses serious needs related to disaster-related hardship, injury, or adverse conditions.
The Disaster Assistance Request Form and instructions can be found on the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management website.
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Gaul honored at 2026 Iowa Rural Summit
Le Mars community development director Mark Gaul was recently honored by the Iowa Rural Development Council with a Rand Fisher Rural Leadership Award.
The award was presented during the 2026 Iowa Rural Summit in Dubuque, and recognizes individuals and organizations for their leadership and impact on small towns across the state. According to the Council, Gaul received the award “for his impact over the last 20 years in Sheldon, Orange City and Le Mars, strengthening those communities through intentional planning, inclusive engagement, and strong relationships.”
Gaul was also recognized for “his ability to bridge perspectives between public officials, private developers, and residents that has helped transform planning concepts into projects supported by public and private sectors.” In a press release, Council board president Madison Burke stated that Gaul “is a perfect example of how a leader can make a huge difference in a rural community.”
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Teacher of the Year, Spirit of Peter & Catherine Gehlen Award announced at annual Ball
Several awards were handed out during the 39th annual Friends of Gehlen Catholic Ball last weekend, including Teacher of the Year and the Spirit of Peter & Catherine Gehlen Award. Gehlen Catholic development director Amy Jungers told KLEM that a special guest presented the Teacher of the Year Award to recipient Alissa Schipper.
The Spirit of Peter & Catherine Gehlen Award was presented to Rick and Mary Kneip and Mike and Kelli Langel. Jungers says they received the honor thanks in part to their contributions to the school’s Legacy Campaign.
During the Ball, two retiring staff members also received recognition.
The ball itself raised over $371,000, and also featured a live and silent auction, a keynote address from Gehlen Catholic president Dr. Amanda Anderson, and a live performance from rock band IV Play.
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Survey open concerning updates to Le Mars Community Development Plan
The city of Le Mars has released a survey to residents concerning the Community Development Plan, commonly referred to as “Vision 2045.”
According to the survey, the city intends to “refresh” the Plan to “better reflect current needs, priorities, and opportunities.” Residents and business owners are invited to share input on the Plan by completing the survey online or in person at the Library or at City Hall. A link to the survey is available here.
The survey will be open from now until May 4th, with the updated plan to be finalized in May.
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