SIMPCO hosted its Annual Board of Directors Meeting and Award Banquet at the Akron Golf Club, where attendees enjoyed a catered meal. The evening featured remarks from Desirae Willms and LeAnne Phillips of the Akron & Westfield Growth Alliance, both active leaders and board members within the organization. They highlighted the Alliance’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for community members, groups, and businesses to connect, collaborate, and support positive progress in addressing local needs.
We were proud to recognize and celebrate individuals whose outstanding contributions have made a meaningful impact on the SIMPCO organization and the Siouxland region.
Thank you to our members, partners, and supporters who joined us for this special event. We look forward to another year of continued growth and success together.
Congratulations to the following individuals who were recognized for their outstanding contributions:
Outstanding Support Award: Keith Bohle
SIMPCO is proud to present the Outstanding Support Award to Keith Bohle, City Council member for the City of Kingsley, Iowa, in recognition of his exceptional leadership, dedication, and continued support of the organization and the region.
In addition to his leadership roles, Keith is a valued partner to SIMPCO staff. He regularly collaborates with the organization to connect the City of Kingsley with services, resources, and planning efforts that strengthen the community and support long-term growth. His proactive approach ensures his community remains well-positioned to take advantage of opportunities.
Keith is also known for bringing thoughtful insight, practical perspective, and a collaborative spirit to discussions. His willingness to engage in problem-solving and regional initiatives enhances SIMPCO’s work and helps address challenges facing communities across the region.
Through his ongoing involvement, accessibility, and strong partnership, Keith has made a meaningful and lasting impact. SIMPCO is honored to recognize his contributions and thank him for his outstanding support.
Outstanding Support Award: Kelly Kreber
SIMPCO is proud to present the Outstanding Support Award to Kelly Kreber, Mayor of Hinton, Iowa, in recognition of his leadership, dedication, and continued support of the organization and region.
Kelly’s leadership and service to his community are noteworthy, bringing experience, stability, and a long-term perspective to decisions that shape Hinton’s future. His thoughtful approach and steady guidance have helped position the community for continued success.
A dedicated and influential member of SIMPCO for many years, Kelly currently serves as Vice-Chair of both the Executive/Finance Committee and the Board of Directors, and has previously served as Secretary. In each of these roles, he has demonstrated strong leadership, consistency, and a deep commitment to advancing SIMPCO’s mission and impact.
Kelly is a steadfast and reliable presence, attending nearly every meeting and offering practical insight that helps guide organizational direction. His measured and collaborative approach ensures decisions are made with long-term sustainability and regional benefit in mind.
Beyond his leadership roles, Kelly actively champions SIMPCO’s work within his community. Under his leadership, the City of Hinton regularly partners with SIMPCO on local projects and initiatives, strengthening regional collaboration and expanding the organization’s impact.
“Kelly’s dedication, consistency, and thoughtful leadership have made a lasting impact on SIMPCO and the communities we serve,” said Michelle Bostinelos, Executive Director. “His commitment to collaboration and sound decision-making truly reflects the spirit of this award.”
SIMPCO is honored to recognize Kelly Kreber for his continued support, leadership, and outstanding contributions to the organization and the region.
Community Leaders Award: Dan Rolfes
SIMPCO is proud to recognize Dan Rolfes, City Administrator for the City of Akron, Iowa, as a recipient of the Community Leaders Award for his exceptional leadership, community advocacy, and lasting impact on the Siouxland region.
A lifelong resident of Akron, Dan has devoted his career to serving his hometown. He began his service as Akron’s Water and Wastewater Superintendent in 2007 and was promoted to City Administrator in 2017.
In his current role, Dan oversees the daily operations of the city, ensuring that essential services and infrastructure continue to meet the needs of residents. His leadership is grounded in hands-on experience and a thorough understanding of Akron’s systems, allowing him to effectively guide both day-to-day operations and long-term planning.
Dan has also been a strong partner to SIMPCO, collaborating on projects that directly benefit his community. Most recently, he played a key role in securing and completing a Community Development Block Grant for wastewater system improvements, as well as a U.S. Economic Development Administration grant supporting critical infrastructure investments.
Through these efforts, Dan has demonstrated a genuine commitment to strengthening infrastructure, supporting future growth, and improving quality of life for local residents. His steady leadership and ability to manage complex projects while staying connected to community needs reflect the true spirit of this award.
SIMPCO is honored to recognize Dan Rolfes for his years of service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the community he proudly serves.
Community Leaders Award: Mark Gaul
SIMPCO is proud to recognize Mark Gaul, Community Development Director for the City of Le Mars, Iowa, as a recipient of the Community Leaders Award for his exceptional leadership, community advocacy, and impact on the Siouxland region.
With more than 20 years of experience in local government and community planning, Mark has made a significant impact on Le Mars, guiding residential, commercial, and industrial growth that strengthens the community while positioning it for future opportunities.
Mark has played a key role in shaping Le Mars’ long-term vision. He led the Vision 2045 Strategic Plan, helping chart a path for sustainable growth, and has partnered with the Hometown Le Mars Heritage Foundation to promote tourism and enhance community identity. He also works closely with local businesses to support expansion and attract new economic opportunities.
A valued partner of SIMPCO, Mark has collaborated on important initiatives including a Workforce Housing Needs Study and a U.S. Economic Development Administration grant application supporting critical infrastructure improvements. Beyond his local work, his service on the board of Iowa’s West Coast Initiative helps advance entrepreneurship and regional collaboration across Siouxland.
Through his leadership, collaboration, and forward-thinking approach, Mark continues to make a meaningful and lasting impact on both his community and the region. His vision and dedication to community development reflect the spirit of this award and have helped position Le Mars for long-term success.
SIMPCO is honored to recognize Mark Gaul for his leadership and continued contributions to the vitality and prosperity of Le Mars.
Community Leaders Award: Chief David Schipper
SIMPCO is proud to recognize Chief David Schipper of Le Mars Fire-Rescue as a recipient of the Community Leaders Award for his exceptional leadership, community advocacy, and lasting impact on the Siouxland region.
Chief Schipper has dedicated more than two decades to public service, including 21 years with Le Mars Fire-Rescue and 16 years as Fire Chief. He has also been an active regional partner through SIMPCO, serving on the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) since 2010 and helping guide hazardous materials planning, training, and response coordination.
Beyond his role within the department, Chief Schipper has been an integral partner in regional efforts through SIMPCO. He has been actively involved with the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) since 2010, helping guide hazardous materials planning, training, and response coordination across the region.
He has also contributed to multiple updates of the Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan, helping ensure communities are better prepared for future risks. His work has supported public engagement efforts and strengthened coordination among local and regional agencies, enhancing overall preparedness.
In addition, Chief Schipper’s leadership has helped build capacity for emergency response across the region. He has supported critical investments in training and preparedness, ensuring that first responders are equipped to effectively protect their communities and respond to evolving challenges.
Through his leadership, collaboration, and commitment to public safety, Chief Schipper has made a meaningful and lasting impact on Le Mars and the greater Siouxland region. His steady guidance and dedication to preparedness truly reflect the spirit of this award.
SIMPCO is honored to recognize Chief David Schipper for his service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the communities he serves.
Community of the Year: City of Akron
SIMPCO is proud to present the 2026 Community of the Year Award to the City of Akron, Iowa, recognizing its excellence in community and economic development, housing, transportation, and overall quality of life.
Akron stands out for its vision, innovation, and regional collaboration, with ongoing downtown investments like the transformation of Reed Street into a vibrant corridor supporting local businesses and community identity.
The city has also demonstrated a strong focus on economic development by encouraging strategic commercial growth and fostering meaningful partnerships that support long-term success. These efforts have helped position Akron as a community where both businesses and residents can thrive.
Housing continues to be a key strength, with initiatives such as the development of affordable residential lots and efforts to maintain a stable housing market. These actions are creating opportunities for new residents while preserving a high quality of life for those already living in the community.
Akron’s investment in community amenities further highlights its commitment to residents. Improvements to parks, trails, and recreational facilities reflect a strong emphasis on quality of life, community pride, and overall well-being.
With an eye toward the future, Akron’s leadership continues to make thoughtful investments in infrastructure, support agricultural vitality, and proactively address challenges such as flood mitigation. These forward-looking efforts help ensure the community remains resilient and well-positioned for continued success.
“Akron is a community that plans strategically, invests wisely, and consistently delivers results,” said Michelle Bostinelos, Executive Director. “Their leadership and commitment to progress make them truly deserving of this recognition.”
SIMPCO is honored to recognize the City of Akron as the 2026 Community of the Year for its ongoing leadership and contributions to the strength and vitality of the region.
Ron Rapp Award: Tom Kimmel
SIMPCO is honored to present one of its most meaningful recognitions, the Ron Rapp Award, to Tom Kimmel. Established in memory of Ron Rapp, the award recognizes long-standing members who demonstrate exceptional leadership and support for the organization.
Tom has been a dedicated member of the SIMPCO Board of Directors for many years, representing both Dakota Dunes CID and Union County, South Dakota, and consistently contributing his time and leadership to advancing SIMPCO’s mission and regional collaboration.
He has remained actively engaged in SIMPCO’s work, including participating in MPO transportation planning efforts and serving as a member of the Water Resources Committee. Through these roles, Tom has helped guide important discussions and decisions that impact communities across the region.
Beyond his formal responsibilities, Tom has been a constant and supportive presence at SIMPCO’s key events and milestones. Alongside his late wife, Barb, he regularly attended annual meetings, holiday banquets, and major moments such as the groundbreaking and ribbon cutting of SIMPCO’s building, demonstrating a genuine and lasting commitment to the organization.
Tom’s thoughtful perspective, steady leadership, and dedication to regional cooperation have made a meaningful and lasting impact—not only for Union County, but for the entire tri-state Siouxland region. His years of service and quiet leadership truly reflect the spirit and legacy of the Ron Rapp Award.
SIMPCO is proud to recognize Tom Kimmel for his enduring commitment, leadership, and service to the organization and the region.
Skip Meisner Golden Carp Award: Dawn Kimmel
SIMPCO is honored to present the Skip Meisner Golden Carp Award to Dawn Kimmel, recognizing her outstanding leadership, dedication, and service to both the organization and the Siouxland region.
Named in honor of SIMPCO’s founder and former Executive Director, Skip Meisner, this award carries special significance. The golden carp symbolizes resilience, perseverance, and the ability to thrive in challenging environments—qualities that continue to define SIMPCO’s mission and are clearly reflected in Dawn’s work and dedication.
Dawn, one of SIMPCO’s longest-tenured staff members, currently serves as a Regional Planner II. While she officially joined the organization in 2014, her service to the region began earlier through her role as Mobility Manager, where she worked to improve transportation access for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and others facing mobility challenges.
Since transitioning into regional planning, Dawn has become an essential part of the SIMPCO team. She has played a key role in securing and administering Community Development Block Grant funding in both Iowa and Nebraska, supporting projects that include water and sewer improvements, downtown revitalization, and the development of childcare facilities.
Her work also advances community health, safety, and accessibility through initiatives such as walk audits, Safe Routes to School, and complete streets planning. In addition, she has contributed to hazard mitigation planning efforts, supported the Local Emergency Planning Committee, and helped coordinate transportation initiatives across the region.
Beyond her technical expertise, Dawn is known for her collaborative spirit, professionalism, and willingness to support her colleagues. She consistently shares her knowledge and contributes to a positive, effective team environment that strengthens SIMPCO’s overall impact.
Dawn’s dedication, resilience, and commitment to serving communities truly reflect the legacy of Skip Meisner. SIMPCO is proud to recognize her for her years of service, meaningful contributions, and the lasting impact of her work across the region.
SIMPCO Engages in Statewide Freight Planning Efforts
SIMPCO Regional Planner Ryan Brauer recently attended the Iowa Freight Advisory Council (FAC) quarterly meeting in Ankeny. The meeting included key updates on freight initiatives across the state, followed by a tour of the Iowa Department of Revenue’s Alcohol & Tax Operations Warehouse.
The FAC is made up of public and private stakeholders who advise the Iowa DOT on freight mobility policies, programs, and investments. The council meets regularly to address challenges, identify trends, and help guide improvements to Iowa’s freight transportation system, supporting economic growth and efficiency statewide.
SIMPCO is proud to remain engaged in these conversations and to help strengthen regional and statewide transportation planning efforts.
IPTA Annual Meeting & Training Conference
Transit Manager Brenda Berens recently attended theIowa Public Transit Association (IPTA) Annual Meeting & Training Conference, held June 17–20 in Altoona, Iowa, at the Meadows Event Center at Prairie Meadows Casino. Alongside transit professionals from across the state, she participated in the three-day conference, which featured training sessions on a variety of topics relevant to transit leaders, managers, maintenance staff, drivers, administrators, and mobility coordinators.
38th Annual IPTA/DOT Roadeo
Following the conference, Brenda attended the 38th Annual IPTA/IDOT Roadeo, where drivers from across Iowa were recognized for their dedication and commitment to safe, reliable transit service. The event highlighted the important role drivers play in keeping communities connected. Participants also competed in a skills-based driving competition designed to test precision, safety, and overall performance, with awards presented to top performers. Representing SRTS, Christopher Gonzales was honored as Driver of the Year for his outstanding service and professionalism.
Certified Training: Iowa Open Meetings & Records Laws
August 13 | 3:00 p.m. | Hybrid
SIMPCO is now a certified provider of training on Iowa’s Open Meetings and Open Records laws. Join us on Thursday, August 13, from 3:00–5:00 PM at SIMPCO (or virtually via Microsoft Teams) for this practical, interactive session.
Designed for elected officials, board and commission members, and public-serving professionals, this training covers key legal requirements, common pitfalls, and best practices for conducting public business transparently and in compliance with Iowa law. Participants will gain real-world guidance and leave with greater confidence in navigating open meetings and records responsibilities.
This training meets state expectations, includes a certificate upon completion, and must be completed within 90 days for newly elected or appointed officials.
Step into summer and discover Siouxland’s trails and hidden gems—at your own pace. Every trail you explore and each landmark you check in at earns you another entry into our end-of-summer prize drawing, featuring rewards generously donated by local businesses.
Getting started is easy—and completely free:
Download the GooseChase app on your phone
Enter Join Code: TRAILCHALLENGE
Have questions or need help getting started? Reach out to Nate at nathan@simpco.org.
Lace up, log in, and let the adventure begin!
Come Learn How to Get the Most Out of Your SIMPCO Membership
August 27 | 4:00 p.m. | Hybrid
Join us for SIMPCO 101, an introductory session designed to help you maximize the value of your membership.
This session is ideal for newly elected or appointed city and county officials—including mayors, supervisors, commissioners, council members, and board members—as well as anyone interested in learning more about SIMPCO membership benefits.
Interested in hosting a SIMPCO 101 in your community? Let us know by emailing us at simpco@simpco.org or by calling (712) 279-6286.
JULY 9 | 10:00 AM
SIOUXLAND REGIONAL TRANSIT SYSTEM (SRTS) BOARD OF DIRECTORS *SPECIAL MEETING
📍 VIRTUAL
JULY 9 | NOON
WESTERN IOWA COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT REGIONAL HOUSING TRUST FUND (WICIRHTF) *APPLICANT HEARING
📍 SIMPCO
JULY 14 | 9:00 AM
STARTUP SIOUXLAND
📍 SIOUXLAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
JULY 15 | 2:45 PM
BICYCLE-PEDESTRIAN ROUNDTABLE
📍 EXPO CENTER
AUGUST 11 | 9:00 AM
STARTUP SIOUXLAND
📍 SIOUXLAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
AUGUST 12 | 7:30 AM
SIMPCO EXECUTIVE FINANCE COMMITTEE
📍 SIMPCO
AUGUST 13 | 3:00 PM
SIMPCO'S OPEN MEETING & OPEN RECORDS TRAINING
📍 SIMPCO
AUGUST 19 | 1:00 PM
LOCAL EMERGENCY PLANNING COMMITTEE (LEPC)
📍 SIMPCO
AUGUST 27 | 4:00 PM
SIMPCO 101
📍 SIMPCO
AUGUST 27 | 1:30 PM
COMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY (CEDS)
MPO & SRTPA administration of funding for STBG, CRP, and TAP funding
Sioux City Lakeport Corridor Study Phase II
Monona County Port Infrastructure Development Program Grant Administration
Procurement for South Sioux City’s Dakota Avenue Study
Hosting the Summer Trailblazer Challenge
ESF10 Document updates for Cherokee, Ida, and Plymouth counties
Sioux City Safe Routes to School Maps
Monitoring MPO trail counters for the season
Sergeant Bluff sidewalk assessments
Community Development:
2027-2031 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy Update
Emerson CDBG Administration
Larrabee Municipal Code Update
Hubbard Comprehensive Plan
Larrabee CDBG Administration
Castana CDBG Administration
Woodbury County CDBG Administration
IGFI Overview: New Property Tax Legislation in Iowa
July 7 | 10:00 AM | Virtual
Erin Mullenix, a research scientist and evaluation specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Community and Economic Development, will discuss the major components of Senate File 2472 and its potential impacts on community fiscal planning. Topics will include new limitations, shifts in the property tax base, reserve fund restrictions, and changes to urban renewal.
IGFI Overview: Urban Renewal and Urban Revitalization Legislation in Iowa
July 15 | 10:00 AM | Virtual
Mullenix will introduce the session and provide an update before Nathan Overberg of Ahlers & Cooney Law Firm discusses recent changes to Iowa's urban renewal and urban revitalization laws included in the legislation, using real-world examples.
Community Matters Live is designed for individuals engaged in housing, planning, and community development throughout Iowa. Each session highlights relevant, Iowa-specific topics and features experts and community economic development (CED) specialists who work directly with local communities. Participants will gain valuable insights, practical tools, and real-world examples to help them address challenges and seize opportunities in community and economic development.
Open Meeting & Open Records Training
July 22 | 10:00 AM | Virtual
Good governance starts with openness. This training, hosted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, breaks down Iowa’s open meetings and open records laws into plain language using real-world examples. It’s an opportunity to build confidence in the rules while strengthening public trust.
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is offering a series of virtual leadership workshops designed for local leaders, board and commission members, nonprofit professionals, and others in public-serving roles.
Leading Effective Meetings (July 15): Learn practical tools to run more purposeful and productive meetings—whether for a city council, nonprofit board, or community group.
Community-Powered Engagement (July 16): Explore strategies to broaden participation, strengthen relationships, and ensure more voices are included in local decision-making.
Demographics in Your Community (July 28): Gain skills to understand and apply demographic data to make more informed, equitable decisions.
These interactive sessions provide real-world tools you can use right away in your community.
Learn the Basics: City Finance 101 Workshop from the Iowa League of Cities
July 23 | 1:00 PM | West Des Moines
This quarterly workshop offers practical guidance on city finances, including in-depth coverage of fund accounting, municipal revenues and expenditures, and financial reporting. While the training is geared toward newer city clerks, finance officers, and city administrators, it is open to all city officials.
South Dakota Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) - Uses federal transportation funds designated by Congress for specific activities that enhance the inter-modal transportation system and provide safe alternative transportation options. For more information on South Dakota TAP, click here. Letters of intent are due by July 15, 2026. Applications are due by October 1, 2026.
South Dakota Agri-Business Access Grant (SD) – This program is a means for local governments to address road needs associated with new agri-business, such as ethanol plants, large-scale elevators, etc. In many cases, these new agri-businesses create additional truck traffic that an existing road may not be built to handle. For more information on the South Dakota Agri-Business Access Grant, click here. Applications due by April 15, July 15, and October 15, 2026.
South Dakota Industrial Park Road Grants (SD) – This program is a means to assist cities and towns that have a new industry coming to their community and need new or expanded access to the industry. For more information on the South Dakota Industrial Park Road Grants, click here. Applications are due by April 15, July 15, and October 15, 2026.
Destination Iowa Fund (IA) – Projects will attract visitors and new residents to the state and bolster the quality of life in Iowa’s rural communities. The aim is to make strategic investments that yield lasting results and create a positive ripple effect throughout the community. These projects will not only address immediate needs but also contribute to long-term sustainability and enhance the overall quality of life for residents. For more information on Destination Iowa Fund, click here. Pre-applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Applications are due by January 15, 2026, and/or July 15, 2026.
Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Program - Makes federal funds available to states, U.S. territories, federally recognized tribal governments, and local governments for hazard mitigation activities. It does so by recognizing the need to upgrade and modernize the nation’s infrastructure to address growing risks to communities and to promote resilience to natural hazards through mitigation activities.For more information on the BRIC Program, click here. Applications are due by July 23, 2026.
Iowa CDBG Buyout & Demolition Program - This grant program is designed to help local jurisdictions move forward with critical infrastructure and recovery efforts following a disaster. FEMA requires state and local governments to contribute a “local share” or “match” toward eligible projects, but these costs can be difficult for communities already stretched thin by emergency response, recovery needs, and reduced revenues. The Non‑Federal Match Program provides CBG-DR funding support as match to ease that burden for FEMA’s HMGP and FEMA-Project Assistance Programs. In addition to assisting with required match funding, CDBG‑DR resources may also be used to enhance HMGP Buyout projects when communities can demonstrate remaining unmet recovery needs, lack of alternative funding options, and a clear connection to long‑term resilience and restoration goals. For more information on the Iowa CDBG Buyout & Demolition Program, click here. Applications are due by July 31, 2026.
Iowa DOT Speed Feedback Sign Program
The Iowa DOT’s Speed Feedback Sign program helps communities improve safety along state highways by displaying drivers’ speeds in real time.
These signs are provided and installed at no cost to eligible cities, helping reduce speeding and enhance overall livability.
Contact your local DOT district office to learn more.
District 3 Office 6409 Gordon Drive Sioux City, IA 51106 712-276-1451 Fax: 712-276-2822
County Fair Season Across the SIMPCO Region
Summer is fair season across the SIMPCO region! County fairs bring communities together to celebrate agriculture, youth achievements, and local traditions.
We encourage everyone to support and attend fairs happening throughout our member counties:
We hope to see you out enjoying all that our regional fairs have to offer this summer!
Siouxland Interstate Metropolitan Planning Council (SIMPCO) & Siouxland Regional Transit System (SRTS), 6401 Gordon Drive, Sioux City, Iowa 51106, 712-279-6286
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