The Board gave attention to the condition of Turner Road and the San Pedro Bridge, both of which were highlighted for their pressing safety concerns. One participant expressed frustration over the persistent flooding on Turner Road that residents have been forced to navigate for years. They suggested elevating the road and installing structures beneath it to manage water levels.

Another speaker shifted the focus to the San Pedro Bridge, emphasizing its deteriorating condition and its immediate threat to public safety. They noted that the bridge had been sinking continuously and warned of a potential catastrophic event if left unaddressed. They stressed, “I am so afraid that it’s going to give and there’s going to be a car that’s going to go down, and we’re going to have a loss of life.” The urgency of using allocated funds for the bridge repair was underscored, with the speaker pointing out, “we’ve got the money; it’s been deteriorating.”

The debate on prioritizing between Turner Road and the San Pedro Bridge became contentious. One participant questioned why the bridge had not been closed if it posed such a risk, while another stressed the necessity of maintaining access for residents who relied on Turner Road. The ongoing use of Turner Road by numerous residents further complicated the discussion about safety and access.

The Board also discussed the management of water flow in local creeks, focusing on the potential blockages in systems like Warrior Creek. Concerns about debris and changes on private property complicating the situation were raised, with any necessary work needing to be conducted on private land, typically feasible only during a local state of emergency. Equipment required for the work was deemed too unstable for the private land involved.

Attention was drawn to the utilization of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, with proposals to move forward with projects like the Steam Hatchy Project and the San Pedro Bridge while maintaining focus on Turner Road issues. Several creeks, including Woods Creek, Pimple Creek, and Spring Creek, were identified as obstructed by fallen trees and debris, affecting multiple districts. The need for a plan to clear waterways was emphasized, with recent similar projects in Dixie County serving as a reference for potential government funding assistance.

The Board recognized the slow progress from various agencies in addressing flooding issues and suggested maintaining communication with state and federal representatives to advocate for assistance. The Army Corps of Engineers had identified nine areas for potential intervention, including regions around San Pedro Bay, with a report expected in November to provide further clarity on future project prioritization.

There was a call for a regional meeting involving affected counties, the Swan River Water Management District, and the Army Corps of Engineers to address flooding and creek cleanouts.

In addition to water infrastructure, the Board discussed the approval of the Water Authority’s budget for 2024-2025. Updates on accomplishments included the connection of 143 new sewer customers in the C Island area and the successful operation of a new sewer treatment plant with a 100,000-gallon daily capacity. A significant water main replacement project was anticipated to commence soon, with discussions on funding for various projects emphasizing grants received amounting to over $3 million.

Tourism was another focal point, with efforts to promote trail systems to attract visitors and enhance local tourism. The Board discussed the need for growth to sustain local tourism, with a representative stating, “we need a little bit of growth to be able to keep the machine going.” Plans for experimental wells were mentioned as part of efforts to enhance water quality and supply.

The Board also considered the annual contract for the core services of the health department, with a proposal to increase the fee schedule, aligning Taylor County’s fees more closely with neighboring counties. Specific adjustments included increasing lab screening fees from $80 to $110 and introducing a $10 fee for hemoglobin and urinalysis.

Finally, the Board approved the sale of a portion of real property at Lot 17, Unit 3 at Kon Beach and discussed a proposed amendment to the county’s sick leave policy to provide financial recognition for employees with low absenteeism. They also addressed the appointment of an interim director for the Mosquito Control Program and the management of parking at Forest Capital Park.