By Jim Magdefrau

VINTON – Fireworks, union contract, and land use were on the agenda for the Benton County Board of Supervisors at their meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 25, 

The board approved a fireworks permit for Iowa Pyrotechnic Association for Jan. 3, 2026.

Sheriff Dave Upah and Josh Karsten presented a resolution for a memorandum of understanding with the union contact ($1/hr promotable positions). This affects eight positions. The cost will be about $20,000. This has been budgeted. 

A land use change hearing was held for Kyle and Alyce Lynch for land in Parcel A, Section 27, Harrison Township. They are building a single dwelling. They will add on to an existing shed. It is not on high quality farmland. Access to the property was explained, as was water and septic. 

A public hearing was held for an amendment to the current budget. This is the second amendment for the fiscal year. This deals with spending authority on emergency services, administration, county environment, physical health and science, and juvenile attention. It also deals with a jailer position, juvenile transportation, juvenile care, and Pioneer Cemetery work. Supervisor Chairman Tracy Seeman explained that the funds are there. The amendment deals with spending authority.

The board approved out-of-state training for Auditor Hayley Rippel. This is a legislative conference for the National Association of County Organizations. It is Feb. 20-25, 2026.

The board discussed the replacement of Sarah Wagner on the Heritage Area on Aging Council. They discussed who might be interested. No action was taken. 

The board approved a resolution for the Benton County Safety Footwear Policy. Derek Marsh, assistant county attorney, presented the policy. It has been worked on by the safety committee. Marsh said they are also working on an eyewear policy. It was agreed this is important for the county’s insurance. The policy was approved unanimously.

Reports included the emergency management budget for the next fiscal year. Supervisor Ron Tippett pointed out the county’s share goes down, while the overall budget goes up.  

Seeman referred to comments he made the week before at the compensation board meeting regarding individual entities that have their own boards. Seeman said these boards did refigure their budgets last year to go along with everybody else. He apologized to the conservation board.