March 19, 2024

Carpenter to take time away from supervisors

Recently re-elected board member sites health concerns after a fall in October

As the Jasper County Board of Supervisors meeting was wrapping up Nov. 22, board chair Brandon Talsma gave an update of recently re-elected board member Denny Carpenter. Carpenter, who was not present at the meeting, will be taking time away from the board due to health concerns.

“Denny, due to some health concerns has decided to kind-of step, not attend board meetings, Zoom or anything, for about 45 days until after the holidays,” Talsma said. “He is going to concentrate getting his strength and health back.”

In October, Carpenter suffered a fall that currently has him seeking recovery treatment at Newton Village. The 82-year old has served on the board for four terms, looking to start his fifth next year.

To fill in while Carpenter is absent, Talsma and board member Doug Cupples will attend outside board meetings that they are not appointed to.

“I’m alternate on one of them so I will start going,” Talsma said.

After his fall when speaking with the Newton News, Carpenter said he does not foresee his health conditions getting the way of his duties as an incumbent supervisor.

“I’m going to get better. Better and better. Day by day, in every way, I’m going to get better and better,” Carpenter said after the fall. “We have certain things in life we don’t plan on. And I didn’t plan on this. I’m going to deal with it and get back on the road. That’s what I’m gonna do.”