Community Caring Award Presented to Jerry Kirk

The Community Foundation of Louisa County recently awarded the 2025 Caring Award to Jerry Kirk, Mayor of Letts. Jerry was nominated by Karen Koppe for his dedication to improving the quality of life in the Letts’ community.

Jerry Kirk has served as the Mayor of Letts since January 2000. Serving as the mayor of a small community involves much more than what’s written in the job description – many responsibilities go unseen but are essential to the town's well-being.

Jerry has been an active member of the Letts Fire Department since 1997 and continues to serve as a dedicated first responder. He played a key role in establishing the Letts Hometown Pride Committee, helping to bring the community together.

In 2000, Jerry initiated the effort to create a city park, which now features a playground, shelter house, and restrooms. He wrote and secured a grant from the Carver Trust Foundation to partially fund the playground equipment, then led the fundraising campaign to cover the remaining costs. The park stands as a testament to Letts' volunteer spirit, with community members providing the labor to bring the vision to life.

In 2010, Jerry spearheaded the project to build a new community building, now home to City Hall and the library. He secured an I-Jobs grant and led additional fundraising efforts to make the facility a reality.

When the old school building burned down in 2005, it left behind a significant cleanup challenge. The building's owner, who also owned a nearby bank building, resided in Mexico, and was uncooperative, making the situation even more difficult. It took a decade for the city to gain ownership of both the school and the bank building. Jerry secured a DNR Abandoned Building Grant and a zero-interest loan from the Iowa Economic Development Authority to cover demolition and site restoration. Today, the former school site serves as a community orchard, while the old bank property is a green space featuring a gazebo crafted from a grain bin.

Jerry's forward-thinking leadership also brought solar panels to the community center and the sewer lagoon system, helping Letts embrace renewable energy.

He represents Letts on the Louisa County Solid Waste Committee, the 911 Committee, and the local Mayors Committee, always advocating for the community's needs.

The community expresses their deep gratitude to Jerry Kirk for his unwavering dedication, hard work, and countless contributions to Letts. His leadership has left a lasting impact on the community.

The Community Caring Award was presented to Jerry after the Letts’ March 6th City Council meeting. The presentation was well attended with members of Jerry’s family present as well as City Council members, members of the Fire Department, and several well wishers. As part of the award, Jerry will receive a $300 donation to the local non-profit of his choice.