MPCSD clears the way for what’s next with PEO Memorial demolition bid acceptance

MT. PLEASANT — The Mt. Pleasant Community School District Board of Education voted unanimously to accept a $238,125 bid from DeCarlo Corporation to demolish the historic P.E.O. Memorial Building on the former Iowa Wesleyan campus, closing a chapter in the town’s long relationship with the nearly century-old structure.

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The decision came during a special board session on Monday, Oct. 27, after months of public discussion about whether to preserve, sell, or remove the building.

Three bids were opened earlier that afternoon at the district’s central office, with DeCarlo’s proposal coming in well below the district’s $371,000 estimate. Superintendent John Henriksen recommended accepting the bid, saying DeCarlo’s preparation and experience made them a clear choice.

“They met all bid requirements, attended the prebid meeting and walk-through, and showed a clear understanding of the site,” Henriksen said.

Henriksen outlined growing safety concerns surrounding the building, which sits less than 25 feet from the district’s Activity Center. He cited structural deterioration, a summer sewer backup, and the presence of asbestos and lead-based paint as major factors in his recommendation.

“The school district is not in the business of historic preservation,” Henriksen said. “Our responsibility is to provide safe and productive learning environments for our students. Right now, this building presents a safety concern and a financial burden.”

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Though the bid review itself was straightforward, the discussion that followed reflected a mix of practicality and emotion. Several board members acknowledged the community’s attachment to the 1927 building, which the P.E.O. Sisterhood originally constructed as a memorial to its founders. The philanthropic women’s organization began at Iowa Wesleyan in 1869 and remains headquartered in Des Moines.

A preservation proposal from Save CR Heritage drew board attention but little confidence. During discussion, it was decided the proposal lacked verified funding or a clear timeline. This would leave the district exposed if the project stalled.

Board Member Michael Hampton questioned whether postponing demolition would meaningfully change the situation.

“If we delay it, what are we going to do?” Hampton asked. “We’d just be kicking the can down the road.”

Several members also discussed the strategic importance of keeping the land under district ownership.

“We own the entire block,” Henriksen said. “Sectioning off a corner before we have a master facilities plan could limit what the district can do in the future.”

After lengthy deliberation, the board voted to move forward with demolition. The approved bid includes removing the structure, abating asbestos and lead, and preserving the building’s cornerstone and time capsule contents for the district to retain. The bid terms allow 45 days for project initiation.

Board members described the vote as both difficult and necessary.

‘The building has served its purpose,” Hampton said. “It’s time to look at what we can do for our students, our faculty, and our staff.’”

As the district turns its attention toward long-term campus planning, demolition of the P.E.O. Memorial Building marks the end of one era in Mt. Pleasant — and the start of another focused on safety, fiscal responsibility, and the community’s educational future.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com