Kasey Conrad hopes to lead Mt. Pleasant with ‘integrity and transparency’

Kasey Conrad is running for the office of Mt. Pleasant Mayor.

The Southeast Iowa Union caught up with Conrad to ask her a series of questions about her candidacy and her vision for the town. Here are her answers:

Q: Why are you running for Mayor?

I’m running for Mayor because Mount Pleasant is at a turning point. For too long, we’ve been managing decline instead of building a future. Our population is shrinking, young people are leaving, and too many small businesses are struggling to survive.

I believe we can change that, by listening to our community, supporting innovation, and creating opportunities that make people proud to live, work, and stay here. Leadership that listens can turn loss into growth, division into collaboration, and possibility into progress. I’m running to bring that kind of leadership, grounded, forward-thinking, and committed to every resident, back to City Hall.

Q: Why do you think you would be a good Mayor?

I would be a good Mayor because I lead by listening, bringing people together, and turning ideas into action. My background as a business owner, community advocate, and educator has taught me how to solve problems collaboratively and think strategically about growth. I understand how to build partnerships, manage budgets, and create programs that deliver real results. Most importantly, I care deeply about this community, its people, its stories, and its future.

I’m not afraid to ask hard questions, make bold decisions, or challenge the status quo when progress demands it. My goal is simple: to lead Mount Pleasant with integrity, transparency, and a clear vision for a stronger, more connected future.

After 40 years of marriage, raising four wonderful children, and celebrating thirteen grandchildren, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about ego, it’s about empathy, consistency, and service. I’ll bring that same steady, inclusive approach to City Hall: practical, transparent, and focused on results that improve everyday life in Mount Pleasant.

Q: What are your main accomplishments in life?

My greatest accomplishments have centered on service, leadership, and creating opportunities for others. Over the course of my career, I’ve founded and led several successful businesses and wellness centers in the U.S. and abroad, managing teams, developing programs, and mentoring thousands through coaching, education, and community development.

As an educator and strategist, I helped establish international schools that continue to operate today, bringing high standards of learning and innovation to growing communities. I’ve built programs that empower women, supported small businesses through transition and growth, and guided organizations toward greater collaboration, sustainability, and success.

Here in Mount Pleasant, I’ve worked to engage residents in meaningful conversations about our shared future, from youth in our schools to local business owners and civic groups, fostering connection, vision, and community pride. As a small business owner myself, I’ve mentored other entrepreneurs and supported local business growth through collaboration and shared resources. I also founded a women’s professional group to strengthen leadership and networking among local women and helped organize a community fundraiser that raised nearly $8,000 to enhance our school libraries.

These efforts reflect my belief that when people come together with purpose, progress follows, and every success strengthens the fabric of our community. Above any title or achievement, my proudest accomplishment is building a life of purpose rooted in integrity, compassion, and a commitment to helping others rise. Those values have guided every step of my journey, and they are the same values I will bring to the office of Mayor every single day.

Q: What about the city needs the most improvement, and how could you, in your position, help with this?

Mount Pleasant’s greatest need is revitalization, not only of its economy, but of its energy, opportunity, and identity. We’re facing population decline, limited housing options, and a shortage of good-paying jobs and engaging activities that encourage young families to stay and grow here. These challenges are interconnected, and they require leadership with both vision and collaboration.

As Mayor, I would focus on rebuilding the foundation of growth by strengthening our small-business base, attracting new industries, and developing affordable and diverse housing options. I’d champion partnerships with schools, colleges, and regional organizations to expand workforce development and youth engagement programs. I’d also invest in tourism, arts, and community events that celebrate our history, draw visitors, and bring new life to our downtown.

By connecting the dots between business, education, and community, and by leading with transparency, accountability, and action, I believe we can reignite pride in Mount Pleasant, turning challenges into momentum and creating a place where people are proud to live, work, and belong.

  Buy Photo