The Henry County Board of Supervisors met in regular session on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at the courthouse in Mount Pleasant. The meeting opened with approval of the agenda before moving into updates from County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss.
Road and Maintenance Updates
Hotchkiss reported Spot blading is underway to address rough intersections and washboards created by dry conditions and harvest traffic. Shoulder maintenance is also in progress near Mount Union and south of Salem, where equipment is being used to repair eroded edges and redistribute rock.
Hotchkiss noted that mowing is nearly finished for the season, with the county’s third round of mowing operations coming to a close. Additional work will be limited to targeted areas as needed.
On the bridge project west of Mount Pleasant, Hotchkiss shared that construction is not expected to begin until mid-October at the earliest. For now, the road remains open through harvest season. All utility relocations in the project area have been completed.
Supervisors also reviewed budget items related to rock hauling and shoulder work, with Hotchkiss confirming that part of the cost will be reimbursed by the City of Mount Pleasant. The board passed along resident praise for recent road patching work on 235th Street.
HR Contract Renewal
Supervisors voted to renew the county’s contract with PJ Greufe & Associates for human resources support. The contract, which runs from September 15, 2025, to September 14, 2026, carries a $1,500 monthly fee and includes a 90-day opt-out clause.
Compensation Plan Approved
The board also formally approved a new county compensation plan developed in partnership with Greufe’s team. The plan introduces a hybrid structure that factors in both employee longevity and annual performance evaluations.
Discussion centered on how cost-of-living adjustments (CPI) will be handled, with supervisors clarifying that while the CPI index moves annually, any wage increases tied to it will require board approval. Department heads voiced support for the plan, noting it provides clearer structure for reviews and pay adjustments. Supervisors agreed that policy details will be spelled out in writing and included in the updated employee handbook.
The plan takes effect immediately, with department heads expected to incorporate it into budget planning for the next fiscal year.
Other Business
No subcommittee reports were presented this week. Public comment followed, with discussion continuing from prior meetings.