The proposed rates include $6.50 per mile for gravel road plowing, $2.50 per mile for plowing paved roads, and $8.50 per mile for summer blading. A comparative chart was reviewed, showing that while overall revenues would remain similar, the financial impact on individual townships would vary. Some townships could face increased costs, while others might see decreases. The board expressed particular concern for smaller townships, such as Benville Township, which might struggle to manage increased expenses before receiving revenue from their levies.

One commissioner voiced concerns about the timing of implementing the new rates. It was proposed that the changes be postponed to the winter of 2026, allowing townships to better prepare financially. The board also considered engaging with township officials to gather feedback, emphasizing the importance of transparency and collaboration. One commissioner noted, “I think it would be really nice to get some feedback from the townships.”

In addition to road maintenance, the board addressed the implementation of marriage ceremony services at the License Center. A proposal was approved to offer marriage ceremonies by appointment for a $50 fee. Couples would need to bring a valid marriage license and photo ID, with a maximum of six guests allowed. The board discussed ensuring that participants enter marriages willingly, with procedures in place to assess body language for any signs of coercion.

Financial matters dominated much of the discussion, with a review of the county’s financial status. The audit findings presented by Doug Host from Clifton Larson Allen highlighted a “clean opinion” on the financial statements. However, documentation issues were found in programs like SNAP, with missing citizenship verification in some case files.

The board also grappled with budgetary challenges for fiscal year 2025, including a projected budget deficit of approximately $2.46 million. Significant losses in revenue streams and rising costs in mental health services for criminally involved youth were primary drivers of this deficit. Proposed cost-saving measures included stricter parameters for mental health placements, postponing equipment purchases, and limiting operational training to those that are grant-funded.

Workforce changes were proposed, including sunsetting five vacant positions and relying on attrition to manage staff reductions. Despite these measures, Health and Human Services remained about $1.3 million over budget, necessitating an increase in the levy to cover the shortfall.

The allocation of $9.17 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding was another key topic. The funding is intended for one-time expenses, with an offset of approximately $1.9 million for the current year. Recommendations for fund utilization included around $400,000 for the Sheriff’s Office to purchase squad cars, cameras, and an investigator vehicle. The highway department requested funds for a grinder attachment, radios, and a backhoe, while the GIS department sought a large format printer and a remonumentation contract. Additional funding was also requested for the Soil and Water Conservation District, Environmental Services, and Natural Resources Management.

The board reviewed the state of the county’s infrastructure, focusing on the condition of bridges and gravel roads. Most bridges were reported to be in fair condition, with one township bridge identified for replacement. The highway department emphasized the importance of maintaining the county’s 400 miles of paved roads through cost-effective preservation projects. Advanced software programs and a video logging system were discussed as tools to assess road conditions and prioritize maintenance.