The Henry County Supervisors met this morning at 9 a.m. for the monthly department head meeting.
Rodger Pitzenbarger gave an update on behalf of the Henry County Veteran’s Affairs. Pitzenbarger mentioned there was amazing turnout at their monthly veteran’s breakfast held the third Friday of the month at the Moose Lodge in Mount Pleasant. Pitzenbarger also gave an update on changes headed down the pipeline for the PACT Act. The PACT Act is a new law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. KILJ will bring more information as it is received on the cancers under consideration for addition.
Caleb Waters gave an update on behalf of the Henry County Conservation Department. Waters reported campgrounds are already completely reserved for Labor Day weekend. The conservation department is happy to welcome the new Head Naturalist Kendall Prehn and are looking to hire a part time tech position to help with maintenance in Henry County parks, as well as an open position on the board for the conservation department. The Henry County Conservation Department is also working to build a new dump station to replace the out of commission previous dump station, with permitting and data collection estimated at around $27,000.
Lynnae Buffington updated the board of supervisors on behalf of the Recorder’s Office, stating deer tags will be available August 19th and that trapping and hunting guides are available outside of the recorder’s office in the Henry County Courthouse.
Sarah Berndt gave an update on behalf of the Southeast Iowa Link (SEIL) Access Office about the new mobile crisis response service now available in Henry County. For more information on this great service in our area read the full article HERE.
Rich McNamee gave his monthly update for the Henry County Sherriff’s Office. There is a jailer opening, as well as a couple of ongoing fundraisers. Axel stuffed animal look alike dogs are available for $20, and the golf tournament set for September 22nd is already sold out.
Jake Hotchkiss the Henry County Engineer updated construction continues on Lowell Hill South of the bridge. Major grading is now complete, and the contractor is finishing modified subbase, asphalt will begin application late next week depending on weather. Ash Avenue South of Hillsboro is now open to traffic as of last Friday.
Shelly Barber, Henry County Auditor, reported property taxes are one step closer to being sent to residents. Auditor staff are currently being trained on the new voting system that will be used in the September 12th special election for the Mount Pleasant Community School District as well as subsequent elections.