By Jim Magdefrau
VINTON – The Benton County Board of Supervisors had routine business at the Tuesday, May 20, 2024, in the Benton County Service Center.
Treasurer update
Treasurer Melinda Schoettmer notified the board that the treasurer’s office will be closed on June 27 for a Iowa County Conservation Association District 6 convention in Cedar Rapids. Schoettmer also explained cross county titling. Citizens may do work on titles in any county.
The board discussed office space for the public health office.
Health office
Grace Schmidt also talked about interviewing for a nursing position and they are starting to get their immunization program ready. She stressed she has no space for either of these. She added that the current office has never been confidential.
She said that as of June 1, Virginia Gay Hospital needs space back that been used for storage by public health. She hopes to have a concrete plan by June 1.
She is now in an office with historical preservation and the food pantry according to Supervisor Chairman Richard Primmer.
Schmidt said she will work on a list of needs for an office. Supervisor Tracy Seeman said they will meet on this in a work session.
Dust
Lori Siela met with the board on dust control on West D Street and 22nd Ave. Drive in Vinton. She was concerned about dust at a t-intersection resulting for construction on US 218.. Engineer Myron Parizek explained the impact of the IDOT (Iowa Department of Transportation) detour on local roads. The IDOT is aware of the impact.
Other business
A pay change was approved for Will Beranek, secondary roads, up to $27 per hour.
Judy Hamaker of Heartland Insurance Renewal gave a presentation.
Shelby Williams, Benton County Conservation, gave an update on conservation and roadside management.
In public comments, dust control came up again with concerns from Charles Green on 56th Street Trail and truck traffic due to a nearby quarry.
Jim Magdefrau 