Council issues two proclamations and swears in six police officers

Council read and approved two proclamations: Alderman Kyle Gripp read a proclamation recognizing January 2026 as National Mentoring Month and presented it to Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley (representatives Jay Justin, Amy Barth and Sarah Sperry). A second proclamation, read by Alderman Blanc, designated January as Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month; Maggie Tinsman (identified as with the Iowa Network Against Human Trafficking / Breaking Traffic / Family Resources) thanked council and urged support for an Iowa-level $1,000,000 human-trafficking survivor services fund to be administered through the attorney general's office.

After proclamations, Police Chief Jeff Bridal introduced and led the swearing-in ceremony for six newly graduated officers. The council and chief recognized the new hires, noting prior service and local ties. The newly sworn officers and badge-pinners named in the transcript included Marcus Hall (badge pinned by girlfriend Ashley), Keaton Johnson (mother Carla to pin), Allen/Alan Rhodes (wife Melissa to pin), Joseph Reimers (wife Sarah to pin), Alan Whitman (wife Clarissa to pin), and Annabel/Annabelle York (badge pinned by Rose). The chief thanked council and HR for the continued hiring support.

The proclamations were approved by voice vote and the sworn officers will be available for post-ceremony photos in the lobby.