Government : Benton County Board of Supervisor Minutes 2/8/24

February 8, 2024

The Benton County Board of Supervisors met in special session with Supervisors Seeman and Bierschenk present. Primmer absent The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. at the Benton County Farm Bureau Building. Members of the public are invited to join in during open session or watch the livestream at https://www.youtube.com/bentoncountyiowa. Unless otherwise noted, all actions were approved unanimously. Summarized Resolutions will be available in the Auditor's office and at: www.bentoncountyia.gov

Vice-Chairman called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Seeman moved/Bierschenk seconded: To accept the resignation of the Veterans Affairs Director, Cara Martin. The estimated date for leaving will be between February 25, and March 10, 2024 and she would keep the board apprised of the date. Motion carried.

Discussions were had on the FY 25 County Budget. Topics ranged from the 911 Radio Tower update, to the landfill. We discussed fund balances, and how the HF718 is affecting the county's levy's. Auditor Rippel explained the Opioid Funds and the task force committee and some of their plans. Questions were asked on the vacant weed commissioner's position along with the Sanitarian's. Jill Marlow questioned the Board regarding having the Weed Commissioner under Conservation and to check out Chapter 317 in the Code. The Sheriff provided information on the capacity he was at in the jail, and answered questions such as how many county deputies on patrol at all times, along with illegal immigrants at the borders. Everyone agree our secondary road department had an exceptional winter and has done a good job. Other members of the audience were allowed to voice concerns on the proposed budget. Farm Bureau Member Jill Marlow reminded the board to always use discretionary spending. Marc Koutouc brought up ways of increasing revenue in the county with some agricultural economic development. This led to the county's comprehensive plan and when should this be updated and revised. Farm Bureau members thanked us for our time.

Seeman moved/Bierschenk Seconded: To Adjourn. Voting aye were Seeman and Bierschenk. Motion carried.

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Gary Bierschenk, Vice- Chairman

ATTEST: _________________________________

Hayley Rippel, Benton County Auditor