By Jim Magdefrau

VINTON – Land use, fireworks, produce and contracts were on the agenda for the Benton County Board of Supervisors at their meeting Tuesday, Aug. 3, in Vinton.

Melody Snow, Vinton Unlimited, received approval for a display on the courthouse lawn for Boomfest on Aug. 28.

Thomas Kinsey (SP) was approved as part-time for courthouse security at $17.91 per hour. He is a retired state trooper.

Taxes were suspended on Parcel #030-44875 per Iowa Code 427.9.

A land use hearing was held for Lonnie Williams for Parcel A, Section 6, Benton Township, for a new home. The land is not in production. The driveway is in compliance with the driveway policy. It will need a new septic system, as well as a new water well. Land Use Administrator Marc Greenlee said he had issues with the request.

Mark Pingenot received approval for fireworks on Sept. 18.

An employment contract was approved with Lindsey Upah, Rural Access Manager.

Greg Walston discussed Old School Produce. He also gave an update on the garden. He wants to donate 10,000 to 12,000 pounds of food to pantries this year. They also discussed the faucets on the outside of the old school, and accessibility to water when frost begins.

Bridge embargoes were removed on bridges in Iowa and Harrison Townships.

Ben Vierling, assistant county engineer, discussed vacating the of county right of way at intersection of 32nd Ave and 66th Street. This is a three-way stop. The small portion will go to the neighboring landowner. It does not change travel access for the road so a hearing is not required. The vacation was approved.

Vierling also mentioned work is ahead of schedule on the bridge north of Blairstown.