Justin Savage

The board conducted the official canvass of the primary election results. Discussion included a report on voter turnout, which reached 24.79% of registered voters, and the processing of absentee and polling station ballots. Additionally, the board finalized the list of county nominees who will appear on the ballot for the upcoming general election.

The board meeting addressed several administrative and operational matters. Key agenda items included scheduling the canvass for the primary election, a decision regarding membership in the National Association of Counties, and departmental updates from the County Engineer, which resulted in the approval of the purchase of two used plow trucks. Additionally, the board discussed tabled items, including delinquent taxes and the potential formation of a county zoning committee, and addressed a resolution regarding a 28E agreement for the collection of criminal court financial obligations.

The board discussed several items including a request for interest forgiveness on delinquent taxes for a residential property, which was tabled for further consultation with the County Attorney. The County Engineer provided departmental updates. The board approved a request to use the county courtyard for the 2026 Farmers Market. Representatives presented the FY27 insurance renewal premium for the Heartland Insurance Risk Pool. The board authorized payment for a semi-annual jail lease and an EMA trailer purchase. Additionally, the board initiated discussions regarding the potential formation of a county zoning committee to address issues related to data collection centers, agreeing to consult with the County Attorney on potential legislative options.

The board conducted a public hearing regarding the fiscal year 2027 county budget, subsequently adopting resolutions related to the county compensation board's recommendations, salary adjustments for deputies and assistants, and final budget approval and appropriations. The County Engineer provided departmental updates, and the board authorized a transfer of funds from the Rural Basic Fund to the Secondary Roads Fund. Additionally, a public hearing was held to authorize noncurrent debt through an installment purchase agreement with Axon Enterprise, Inc. for law enforcement equipment. The meeting concluded with the review and approval of various county and conservation board claims.

The Board meeting focused on key administrative and operational items. The primary business included the review, approval, and authorization of documentation for the FY27 health insurance renewal. The County Engineer provided departmental updates, and the Board discussed committee reports and payroll matters. The session concluded with an adjournment to attend a separate meeting of the PL566 Watersheds Board.