By Jim Magdefrau

VINTON – The Benton County Board of Supervisors met Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at the Benton County Service Center, Vinton.

The board acknowledged the post-election audit on Vinton’s second precinct from the 2024 primary election. They also approved the canvass of the primary election.

Minutes from past meetings were approved, with corrections.

Excess flood insurance for the sheriff’s office was discussed by the board. The insurance company seeks to up the building value while keeping the contents the same value. The premium would go from $14,954.06 to $16,074.21. It was approved by the board.

Engineer

A utility permit was approved for Alliant Energy on 22nd Ave. Drive in Taylor Township.

A utility permit was approved for Interstate Power & Light Co. for 60th Street in Jackson Township. 

A quit claim deed was approved for Jennel Schulte in Florence Township.

Human Resources

Food Pantry representatives voiced storage space concerns for their office at the service center and the transition of space for the pantry. They said their space gets smaller and smaller. Access to electrical and fire panels was also discussed, as well as a new freezer. The supervisors said they would look at this after the meeting.

An update was given on a clinical care coordinator position. Someone has been hired with a July 1 start date.

Early retirement incentive was approved for Karen Uthoff at the sheriff’s office. 

The renewal of the Iowa State Association of Counties HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) program was approved.This includes training and consulting. 

Transportation

Mark Erickson, Benton County Transportation, met with the board regarding Fiscal Year 2025 and 3 percent employee raise for his position. The previous director, Dean Vrba, requested no increase, passing that raise on to his employee. The raise was approved.

The board removed Vrba from the ECICOG Region 10 Passenger Transportation Advisory Committee. Erickson was approved as replacement.