Matt Cosgrove

The Board of Supervisors addressed several administrative and financial items, including the approval of annual step wage increases for conservation department staff and the issuance of retail alcohol licenses. Annual manure management plans were received and filed. Financial authorizations included providing additional recycling funding for incorporated cities, executing a contract for library services, and approving various fund transfers for district court services, employee benefits, and permanent building improvements. The Board also authorized an amended 28E agreement for legal services with Hamilton County and awarded contracts for building maintenance and janitorial services. Additionally, the Board reviewed bids for animal control services and received citizen input regarding mining concerns in Elkhorn Township.

The board approved the official canvas of the primary election. Additionally, the board received and filed various bids for maintenance and janitorial service contracts for further review. The board also approved fiscal year wage increases for county employees, with a 3% increase designated for the conservation department, and discussed the terms and future adjustments to the 28E agreement.

The board meeting agenda included several personnel actions such as receiving resignations and authorizing new hires for various departments. Key administrative and fiscal items included reviewing labor agreements, approving retail permits, and removing a member from the county condemnation jury. The board also planned to review annual manure management plans, authorize payments for professional engineering services, and approve a contract renewal with Cost Advisory Services. Furthermore, the meeting involved setting wage increases for the upcoming fiscal year, approving multiple inter-fund transfers, authorizing the purchase of new tractors and mowers, and selecting a diesel fuel supplier for secondary road facilities.

The Board of Supervisors discussed various administrative and infrastructure items, including the receipt of several Right-of-Way and utility permits, as well as the filing of annual manure management plans. The meeting included the authorization of a Master Service Agreement and Statement of Work with NetSPI LLC. A public hearing was held regarding a budget amendment for the current fiscal year, which was subsequently approved. The Board also approved a resolution updating speed limits on specific roads and authorized plans and specifications for a paving project. Committee reports were provided by board members, and the meeting concluded with the allowance of claims.

This Strategic Plan serves as a short and long-range planning tool for the Webster County Conservation Board, providing clear direction for the Conservation Department. Its core purpose is to protect, manage, and interpret natural resources and open spaces to promote environmental stewardship. The plan envisions the department as a leading public agency in Iowa for conserving open spaces, aiming to foster personal responsibility, appreciation for the natural world, and investment in future protection among residents of all ages. It focuses on advancing the organization's mission and providing unified direction.