Decorah student recognized by the Decorah City Council for her essay on

Helen Johnson is too young to run for mayor in Decorah.  But that hasn't stopped her from thinking about what she would do if she were mayor.

The Decorah Middle School student was one of five Iowa League of Cities essay contest winners for saying what she would do if given the opportunity to be Decorah's mayor.  Her "platform" included supporting a new animal shelter and a farmers market building in Decorah.

On Monday night, Johnson was recognized by Decorah's actual mayor--Don Arendt--and the seven Decorah City Council members.

It's another recognition for Johnson, who earlier received a $300 saving bond and got to meet Iowa Governor Terry Branstad and Lieutenant Governor Kim Reynolds in Des Moines.  Her essay will also be printed in an upcoming edition of the Iowa League of Cities' magazine.