Dylan Mullenix, AICP | Executive Director
Dylan Mullenix joined the MPO in 2006, progressed through roles such as Senior Planner, Principal Planner, Assistant Director, and Interim Executive Director before being named Executive Director in 2024. Dylan manages the MPO staff, providing guidance and leadership to ensure the efficient and timely completion of the organization’s projects and programs. He leads the development and implementation of the MPO’s budget, work program, and strategic plan. He also coordinates with partner agencies to leverage transportation and infrastructure to advance regional goals. Dylan earned a bachelor’s degree in anthropology with a minor in geography, as well as a master’s degree in urban and regional planning with a focus in transportation planning, from the University of Iowa. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners, a board member of the American Planning Association’s Iowa Chapter, a graduate of LeadDSM’s Community Leadership Program, and a 2017 Des Moines Business Record Forty Under 40 honoree.
Email: dmullenix@dmampo.org
Phone: 515-334-0075
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Gunnar Olson | Planning and Public Affairs Manager
Gunnar Olson has more than 20 years of experience in journalism, public affairs and planning. As Planning and Public Affairs Manager, he oversees the MPO’s planning programs and projects; serves as project manager for strategic public policy initiatives; acts as a liaison to partner organizations; and oversees the MPO’s communications strategy and execution. He has earned a reputation as an engaging spokesperson for regional causes and is known for being well organized, collaborative, and persistent in implementing projects of regional significance. He was a driving force behind the establishment of the Mid-Iowa Planning Alliance for Community Development, and he was the primary author of the $25 million BUILD grant for water trails. His work has received numerous professional recognitions, including the Des Moines Business Record’s Forty Under 40 in 2015. Previously, he was the public affairs manager for the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) and a staff writer with The Des Moines Register. He is an alumnus of Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he graduated magna cum laude in 2003.
Email: golson@dmampo.org
Phone: 515-334-0075
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/gunnarbolson
Tracey Deckard | Office Manager
Tracey Deckard provides the overall administrative management and front office support necessary to keep the organization running smoothly. With an extensive legal background and broad experience in both legal and administrative functions, Tracey oversees the facilities, equipment, and general day-to-day operations that enable the MPO to function effectively and efficiently. Tracey attended both Des Moines Area Community College and Northeast Missouri State University and has a paralegal degree.
Email: tdeckard@dmampo.org
Phone: 515-334-0075
LinkedIn Profile
Rhonda Miller | Accountant
Rhonda Miller joined the Des Moines Area MPO in 2022 as the Accountant bringing more than 25 years of experience in budgeting and finance. She has a diversity of experiences, having worked with businesses both large and small, new and established. She has assisted two small companies launch their businesses, and she has helped a large corporation through a period of growth. She also spent 19 years at the business manager of a locally owned company. She attended the Des Moines Area Community College.
Email: rmiller@dmampo.org
Phone: 515-334-0075
Carl Saxon | Senior Planner
Carl Saxon has more than 13 years of experience in transit planning and operations, bringing a wealth of knowledge and passion for creating comprehensive and integrated transportation solutions to make the region more livable for all. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in geography from The University of Iowa.
Email: csaxon@dmampo.org
Phone: 515-334-0075
Marcus Coenen, AICP, PTP | Senior Planner
Marcus Coenen brings a wealth of experience in project management, data analysis, and community engagement. Having previously worked as a planner at the Des Moines Area MPO from 2016-2018, he rejoined in 2025 with a proven track record of improving regional mobility and accessibility. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in history and a Master of Science in urban and regional planning from the University of Iowa. He has a passion for fostering vibrant communities connected by innovative transportation solutions.
Email: mcoenen@dmampo.org
Phone: 515-644-2087
Addison Williamson, AICP Candidate | Associate Planner
Addison Williamson joined the MPO in 2024 and brings a passion and interest in sustainable community development, environmental and social justice, and moving transportation systems away from car dependency. He earned a bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in mathematics from Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, in 2019 and a master’s degree in Community and Regional Planning from Iowa State University in 2024. In his free time, he enjoys cooking spicy dishes and long days of board gaming.
Email: awilliamson@dmampo.org
Phone: 515-334-0075