Adams County

Key discussions included an update from the Engineer regarding several bridges requiring lower weight postings. A significant portion of the meeting addressed the recent fuel bid award, where the Board explained the selection criterion favored the most qualified bid over the lowest bidder due to documented service issues from the lower-bidding vendor, specifically concerning fuel blend consistency and delivery documentation. Insurance coverage for the county was updated. A resolution was approved transferring funds from the SIRWA Grid System fund to the General Basic fund related to Gooseberry Lake reserves. A public hearing was held concerning the FY19 Budget Amendment, which was subsequently approved via resolution.

Key discussions included the potential hotel project, where the board advised proceeding with a grant application and determined that LOST funds would cover the committed $100,000 contribution. The board tabled the discussion regarding the rearrangement of committees until all members were present. Additionally, the supervisors approved the 2018 Family Farm Applications. An update was provided regarding the status of the Headstart program in Adams County, which is no longer being offered due to staffing issues at the overseeing MATURA organization. An update was also given concerning a state report being prepared by the Historical Society. Claims totaling $53,839.00 were approved as presented.

The meeting addressed several significant items, including the approval of an amended agenda to include the Secondary Roads fuel contract. The supervisors approved a 28E agreement with Adair County for interim engineering services and adopted Resolution 2022-12, authorizing the Adams County Engineer to execute certifications for construction project final acceptances. An amended quote for a tandem dump truck from Henderson Equipment was approved, reflecting price increases due to rising costs. A utility permit (22-01) for Alliant Energy on Willow Ave was approved. The Fuel Contract with UFC, effective May 1, 2022, was approved. Claims totaling $129,214.97 were approved, along with a special election invoice reimbursement to Creston School District. A public hearing regarding the Maximum Property Tax Dollars for FY 2022-2023 was opened and subsequently closed without objection, leading to the approval of Resolution 2022-10 setting these maximums. The scheduling of the FY 2022-2023 Budget Hearing for March 28, 2022, was approved. Department head reports covered updates from the Sheriff, Secondary Roads, IT, and Conservation departments, including the introduction of a new Park Officer. Committee and meeting reports were also presented.

Key discussions included the purchasing of a television for safety training presentations and updates on Emergency Work Project (EWP) funding for flood damages. Specific road and bridge projects were detailed, including the reopening of Orange Avenue, bridge repairs on 250th Street (Mercer 7), closures for Bridge Washington 5 repairs, and upcoming paving on Juniper Ave. Budgeting for Mulberry surveying and engineering in FY 21 was noted, with FY 20 adjustments due to weather-related delays. The board addressed a complaint regarding beavers and set a public hearing for amendments to the Code of Ordinances. The Adams County FFA/4-H Fair Board presented its budget and funding request for 2020. The board advised department heads to tentatively budget a 3% increase for salary/hourly employee rates pending final review. Additionally, Family Farm applications for 2019 and invoices for City, School, and Community College Elections were approved. Progress on the county website update was reported.

Key discussions during the meeting included the approval of a CIPCO utility permit located in the southeast portion of Adams County. An update was provided on ongoing engineering projects, including bridge inspections which revealed that 16 bridges on paved roads have an expected lifespan of 15 years or less. The Board approved the Adams County Employee Handbook with amendments concerning sick leave payout for new hires and clarification on severe weather policies. Further discussions involved a potential renovation for the law enforcement center and the approval of payment to CHI Wellness Center for annual employee memberships, which will be reimbursed via payroll deduction. Board members provided oral reports on MATURA, CHI Board, and Crossroads meetings.