The Henry County Board of Supervisors met Thursday morning for a regular session, addressing a variety of county business ranging from infrastructure projects and utility permits to seasonal hiring and community support agreements.
Infrastructure and Maintenance Updates
The board heard from County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss, who provided an extensive update on road maintenance and utility permits. Hotchkiss reported that seven new utility permits had been issued to KCTC for fiber installation across various county roads, including Benton Avenue, 270th Street, Dakota Avenue, and several others. “There’s a lot of fiber going in on the southern side of the county,” he noted.
Hotchkiss also announced a right-of-way permit for a paved entrance on Franklin Avenue. The contractor began work this week due to favorable weather conditions.
In maintenance news, a significant project on Henry-Lee Street involved replacing a large 66-inch crossroad pipe. Crews completed excavation and backfill, with slope work continuing into the week. Meanwhile, on Old Highway 34, seeding has been completed, and crews are now waiting for drier conditions to lay erosion control matting.
Hotchkiss also reported on continued work by Norris Asphalt and Helms Construction for a future project slated to begin in mid-May. The county has processed nearly 50,000 tons of roadstone from its Dowstone operation, nearly halfway to its production goal.
Additionally, the county will begin advertising for a part-time seasonal equipment operator position, largely used for mowing and pipe crew assistance. The role has no benefits and is considered temporary, often filled by retirees or part-time workers.
Fellowship Cup Agreement Renewed
Supervisors unanimously approved the annual agreement with Fellowship Cup, a Mount Pleasant-based food assistance organization. The county contributes $500 per month—$6,000 annually—from general assistance funds to support local families in need.
The agreement, which has existed since the inception of Fellowship Cup, outlines the county’s expectations and the data provided in return—such as the number of households served and the cost of food. General Assistance Coordinator Sarah Berndt confirmed that the funds are separate from the $1,500 annually given to the Southeast Iowa Food Bank.
General Assistance and Department Transition
Sarah also presented her monthly report, noting a spike in General Assistance activity with 16 client contacts over the past 30 days. Reasons for ineligibility included income limits and overdue bills. She noted that six direct cremation funds had been used, prompting her to notify local funeral homes that only four remain in the yearly allocation.
The board discussed the ongoing transition of General Assistance responsibilities under Public Health. Berndt confirmed that all documents and forms have been shared, and staff are ready for a smooth hand off.
The session concluded with no major public comments.