By Jim Magdefrau

VINTON – It was a quick meeting for the final meeting of the year for Benton County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, Dec. 27, at the conference room of the service center.

Claims from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) fund were approved.

The board approved the sheriff’s department contract for law enforcement in Blairstown. The contract involves police protection for $16,900, which is to be paid quarterly. It is not to exceed 10 hours a week or 520 hours in one year.

Kirsten Nelson, human resources, discussed health insurance rates, participation in wellness incentives and changes for 2023. The board approved a 5 percent rate increase. The county is looking to encourage participation in the Wellness program, with a possible incentive of having a personal day off.