The Henry County Board of Supervisors met for their regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday, December 30 at 9AM.
Following approval of the agenda and previous meeting minutes, County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss provided an update on county road projects. Hotchkiss reported that the bridge deck on 235th Street has been completely removed, and a second crane is now in place. Contractors are expected to return next week to continue work on the bridge replacement project.
Supervisors also reminded residents that the County Roads Department will be closed on Thursday, January 1 for the holiday and will close at noon on Friday, January 2 due to staffing shortages.
The board then discussed a recommendation from the county compensation board regarding elected officials’ salaries. The recommendation proposed a 10 percent increase for all elected officials, excluding the supervisors. Supervisor Steve Detrick said he could not support a 10 percent increase given the county’s current financial position. All three supervisors voted to oppose the recommendation, stating they would prefer to revisit compensation later in the budget process once county revenues are clearer.
Supervisors also made several board appointments for the 2026 calendar year. Brooke McArtor was appointed to the Regional Homeless Coordinating Board. Additional appointments and renewals were approved for the Compensation Commission related to eminent domain proceedings.
The board noted strong interest in the Henry County Board of Health, with more applicants than available openings. Supervisors plan to contact applicants to schedule interviews, as one position is expected to become available.
County residents interested in serving on a board or commission can find a current list of openings and application information on the Henry County website at henrycounty.iowa.gov under the Board of Supervisors tab.
The Henry County Board of Supervisors will meet again for their next regular meeting on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.