2025.11.24 Public Hearings and Regular Session

PUBLIC HEARINGS AND REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on November 24, 2025 for a three (3) Public Hearings on the conveyance of school owned property at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa beginning at 5:00 p.m. with some members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts. 

On call of the roll the following were present:  Elizabeth Dolezal, Rick Hopper, Joe Hanus, Megan Thiessen, and Beth Wiese.  Quorum Present.  Also present were:  Superintendent John Cain, Board Secretary Katie Mathern, Mary Mixdorf, Jonathan Meyer, Mike Davis, Dixie Forcht, Vern Jefferson, Dan Quigley, Danya Keahna, several community members, and members of the community through Google Hangouts.

Motion by Thiessen, second by Hanus to approve the agenda of the first Public Hearing.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Public Hearing - Conveyance of School Owned Property:  President Dolezal opened the Public Hearing for the conveyance of school owned property located at 201 South Green Street, Toledo, IA at 5:00 p.m.  President Dolezal reviewed Board Policy 214 - Public Hearings and asked for public comments.

Multiple community members provided comments regarding the potential sale and redevelopment of the former Middle School property.

Kristen Donald expressed hope for positive reuse but raised concerns about renovation costs, lack of successful examples of buyer, and risks of vacancy, asking the Board to ensure all options have been fully explored. Jim Roan shared past project experience and expressed concern that due diligence on the proposed purchaser is insufficient, noting lack of communication with city officials and high demolition costs in similar cases. Berleen Wobeter thanked STC graduates for their work featured in the newspaper. Cathy Cook expressed concern about limited buyer information and lack of guaranteed development, emphasizing City-School collaboration and requesting consideration of a demolition bond to protect the community. Brian Sokol, Mayor of Toledo, appreciated district communication but urged the Board to pause or table the agreement due to limited information about the end user, zoning, and lack of direct contact with the developer. Katherine Ollendieck, Toledo’s Economic Development (specialist), reviewed the property’s historical context and the city’s long-term stewardship, urging the Board to slow down, learn more about the buyer, and involve the city in the demolition and redevelopment discussions.  Karen Murty expressed concern about the building becoming vacant and unsafe, urged diligence, and asked about options such as the Rec Department purchasing the gym. Jess Manfull reminded the Board that they live in the community and that this decision will be part of their legacy. Shane Manfull emphasized the gym’s importance for youth sports and voiced concern about its future condition and the lack of information regarding the buyer and proposed investment. Kenny Mayo expressed concern that no one has met the buyer and urged delaying the sale until there is more confidence in the buyer’s ability to execute the plan. Jamie Upah noted the gym’s importance for youth volleyball and community recreation and asked the Board to preserve program access. Erica Swanger expressed concern about future gym access for volleyball programs and noted red flags in the publicly shared email/article. Deanna Zmolek thanked the Board and expressed concern of the absent buyer and urged additional due diligence. Lane Williams asked whether the previously discussed international school option is still possible. Additional questions were asked regarding whether anyone representing the district or the city has met directly with the proposed buyer.              

President Dolezal asked for a motion to close the Public Hearing.

Motion by Wiese, second by Hopper to close the Public Hearing at 5:47 p.m.

Motion by Hopper, second by Wiese to approve the agenda of the second Public Hearing.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Public Hearing - Conveyance of School Owned Property: President Dolezal opened the Public Hearing for the conveyance of school owned property known as the tennis courts and green space, located by the South Tama County Middle School between East Carleton Street and East South Street, Toledo, IA at 5:48 p.m. President Dolezal asked for public comments. 

Community members shared concerns about the proposed property agreement.

Brian Sokol noted the three agreements are separate and urged the Board to “pump the brakes” on this parcel as well.  Jim Roan advised the Board to ensure that all agreements are fair and workable for all parties before signing. Karen Murty cautioned that poor maintenance, insurance gaps, and tax issues can quickly deteriorate a property, especially with youth access, and encouraged the Board to heed expert advice. Kenny Mayo again questioned why the buyer has not attended to answer the community’s concerns. Shane Manfull asked whether the City might be interested in the space at the right price given its high community use. Brian Sokol responded that the City did not bid on the parcels but remains interested in working closely with the District to find a good outcome. Superintendent Cain reviewed the district’s three-year history of exploring options with the City, emphasized ongoing due diligence and communication with the buyer, and noted the difficulty of balancing costs, community needs, and practical limitations such as renovation expenses. Sandy Russell asked why, in today’s environment, the buyer could not participate via Zoom. 

President Dolezal asked for a motion to close the Public Hearing.

Motion by Thiessen, second by Hanus to close the Public Hearing at 6:09 p.m.

Motion by Wiese, second by Hopper to approve the agenda for the third Public Hearing.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Public Hearing - Conveyance of School Owned Property:  President Dolezal opened the Public Hearing for the conveyance of school owned property including the green space and a football field located between East Carleton Street and East Ross Street, Toledo, IA at 6:10 p.m.  President Dolezal asked for public comments.

Community members provided comments about the proposed sale.

Brian Sokol urged the Board to pause the sale and work more closely with the City. Karen Murty warned that out-of-state or international buyers may be unaccountable, leaving local taxpayers to deal with long-term financial and maintenance issues. Kristen Donald encouraged City-School cooperation.  Jim Roan stressed the need for the City and School Board to work together and cautioned against selling the property to an out-of-state buyer. Doby Williams cited past renovation projects that failed without bonding or accountability and urged the District to protect taxpayers by ensuring strong safeguards. Michael Marquess, City of Toledo Attorney, explained the City’s limited ability to enforce compliance on non-local buyers and emphasized the need for tools such as performance bonds to protect the community. 

President Dolezal asked for a motion to close the Public Hearing.

Motion by Wiese, second by Hopper to close the Public Hearing at 6:20 p.m.

The Regular Session was called to order at 6:21 p.m.

The Board and guests stated the “Pledge of Allegiance” and the District’s mission statement. 

On call of the roll the following were present: Elizabeth Dolezal, Rick Hopper, Joe Hanus, Megan Thiessen, and Beth Wiese.  Quorum Present.  Also present were: Superintendent John Cain, Board Secretary Katie Mathern, Mary Mixdorf, Jonathan Meyer, Mike Davis, Dixie Forcht, Vern Jefferson, Dan Quigley, Danya Keahna, several community members, and members of the community through Google Hangouts.

Motion by Thiessen, second by Hanus to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Public Comment - None

Motion by Thiessen, second by Hanus to approve the following consent agenda items:  November 10, 2025 Regular Session minutes; bills for payment and financials as presented; American Boiler & Mechanical Proposal, in the amount of $1,442.58, for two safety valves; $500.00 donation from Jim and Brenda Husak for lunch balances; and $990.00 donation from STC Music Boosters for half of the marching band drill design.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Board Secretary Katie Mathern reviewed the election results.

Superintendent Cain outlined the District’s strategic planning and public hearing process, noted recent communication with the City, and explained that each proposed property agreement includes use restrictions.  He emphasized separating facts from misinformation, evaluating risks and feasibility, acknowledged community concerns about the buyer, and noted ongoing discussions with the City as the District considers all options.  

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen, to table the resolution to approve the conveyance of real property located at 201 South Green St., Toledo (Block 19), to Southfork Premier Properties, LLC.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Thiessen, second by Wiese, to table the resolution to approve the conveyance of the tennis courts and green space (Block 2, McRoberts First Addition, Toledo) to Southfork Premier Properties, LLC.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Thiessen, second by Wiese to table the resolution to approve the conveyance of the green space and football field property (Block 17, Stone & Harrison’s Addition, and adjacent parcels) to Southfork Premier Properties, LLC.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Hopper to approve the Treasurer’s Annual Settlement.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Hopper to approve authorizing the District’s administration to submit a request to the School Budget Review Committee for a modified supplemental amount of $170,705.00 for open enrolled out students who were not included in the District’s previous year certified enrollment count.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Hopper, second by Wiese to approve authorizing the District’s administration to submit a request to the School Budget Review Committee for a modified supplemental amount of $116,544.00 related to the EL program for students who have exceeded five years of weighting that are included on the Fall 2025 certified enrollment headcount.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Hopper, second by Wiese to approve the second reading of the following policies:  411.01 - Classified Employee Defined (new); 411.02 - Classified Employee Qualifications, Recruitment, Selection (new); 411.04 - Classified Employee Licensing/Certification (new); 411.05 - Classified Employee Assignment (new); 411.06 - Classified Employee Transfers (new); 411.07 - Classified Employee Evaluations (new); 412.01 - Classified Employee Compensation (FKA 412.01); 412.02 - Classified Employee Wage and Overtime Compensation (new); 413.02 - Classified Employee Retirement (new); 403.03 - Classified Employee Suspension (new); 413.04 - Classified Employee Dismissal (new); and 413.05 - Classified Employee Reduction in Force (FKA 413.05).  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

The following policies will be brought back to the next meeting for a third reading:  411.03 - Classified Employee Contracts (new), 411.08 - Classified Employee Probationary Status (new), 413.03 - Classified Employee Group Insurance Benefits (new), 412.04 - Classified Employee Tax Shelter Program (new), and 413.01 - Classified Employee Resignation (new). 

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to adjourn the retiring board at 7:02 p.m.

Ms. Mathern called the Organizational Meeting to order at 7:12 p.m.

The Board and guests stated the “Pledge of Allegiance” and the District’s mission statement. 

On call of the roll the following were present:  Elizabeth Dolezal, Joe Hanus, Rick Hopper, Danya Keahna, and Megan Thiessen.  Quorum Present.  Megan Thiessen left the meeting at 8:14 p.m.  Also present were:  Superintendent John Cain, Board Secretary Katie Mathern, Mary Mixdorf, Jonathan Meyer, Mike Davis, Dixie Forcht, Vern Jefferson, Dan Quigley, several community members, and members of the community through Google Hangouts.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Hopper to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Public Comment - Mike Davis, with the Tama-Toledo News Chronicle, shared concerns about the lack of verified success stories for the buyer, noting that research, public records, and media inquiries have not identified positive redevelopment examples, and stated that reporters will continue investigating the referenced properties.

Beth Wiese thanked the Board for four years of learning and service, highlighted the value of board discussions and IASB trainings, and encouraged members to continue asking questions and seeking guidance.

Katherine Ollendieck cautioned against using student achievement in heated discussions and noted that the tone of the conversation does not support moving forward productively.

Mark Doland thanked Beth Wiese for her service to the Board and welcomed Danya.

Dixie Forcht, as the Teachers’ Union President, expressed concern about reports that employees undergoing serious medical treatments or health issues were issued verbal warnings and required to sign documents under the code of conduct for absences, stating this feels punitive and unsupportive to staff.

Ms. Mathern administered the Oath of Office to the newly elected Board members:  Elizabeth Dolezal, Joe Hanus, and Danya Keahna. 

Ms. Mathern accepted nominations for Board President.  Board member Rick Hopper nominated Elizabeth Dolezal, which was seconded by Joe Hanus.  Receiving no other nominations, the motion passed to unanimously elect Elizabeth Dolezal as Board President for the next year.

Ms. Mathern administered the Oath of Office to Elizabeth Dolezal as Board President.

President Dolezal accepted nominations for Board Vice President.  Board member Thiessen nominated Rick Hopper, which was seconded by Joe Hanus.  Receiving no other nominations, the motion passed to unanimously elect Rick Hopper as Board Vice President for the next year.

President Dolezal administered the Oath of Office to Rick Hopper as Board Vice President.

Superintendent Cain reported no significant concerns from staff or the Union regarding Employee Code of Conduct implementation, with one individual noting improved attention to work expectations.

School Resource Officer Vern Jefferson reviewed his role under the NASRO Triad Model and summarized recent activities, including new safety certifications, conference participation, school event support, and coordinating K9 searches with local law enforcement.

Superintendent Cain noted upcoming training opportunities for newly elected board members.

Motion by Hopper, second by Hanus to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Hires:  Ryan Cassady - Assistant Varsity Boys Basketball and Todd Schoolman - Head 7th Grade Boys Basketball

Volunteers:  Aaron Yuska - High School Boys Basketball

90-day probation stipend - Justin Suchanek

Motion by Hanus, second by Hopper to approve to set a public hearing for a calendar change for December 8, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Hopper, second by Hanus to approve the high school anticipated fundraisers as presented.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Hopper, second by Hanus to approve the Trane proposal, in the amount of $5,620.00, for Trance Tracer SC+ Controller and Software Upgrade.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Hanus, second by Hopper to not offer early retirement for the 2025-2026 school year.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

The Board discussed having a sale for the remaining furniture at the old middle school within the first couple of weeks in March 2026. 

Motion by Hopper, second by Hanus to approve the first reading of the following policies:  403.02 - Employee Injury on the Job (updated); 403.06 E1 - Drug and Alcohol Testing Program - Notice to Employees (updated); 403.06 E2 - Drug and Alcohol Testing Program - Pre-Employment Testing (updated); 403.06 E3 - Drug and Alcohol Testing Program - Written Consent to Share Information (FKA 403.06 E2); 405.01 - Licensed Employee Defined (new); 405.02 - Licensed Employee Qualification, Recruitment, Selection (updated); 405.06 - Licensed Employee Assignment (new); 406.01 - Licensed Employee Compensation (updated); 407.03 - Licensed Employee Retirement (FKA 407.06); 505.08 - Parent and Family Engagement District-Wide Policy (Formerly Parental Involvement); and 506.02 E1 - Student Directory Information - Authorization for Releasing Student Directory Information.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Superintendent reviewed upcoming district events, including high school girls basketball on November 25, the Thanksgiving break from November 26–28, and multiple activities during the first week of December such as 7th/8th grade basketball, high school boys and girls basketball, middle school wrestling, the elementary winter concert on December 4, high school girls and boys wrestling events, the December 6 archery tournament at home, NEIBA Honor Band, and the Middle School Concert on December 8.

Each Board member presented a “positive” they have witnessed in the District or their role as a Board member.

Motion by Hopper, second by Hanus to adjourn the meeting at 8:33  p.m.

 

Elizabeth Dolezal, Board President                   Katie Mathern, Board Secretary