The Henry County Board of Supervisors met on Thursday, October 2, 2025, approving the day’s agenda and minutes from the September 25 session before moving into reports from department heads.
Treasurer’s Office Reports Strong Tax Collections
County Treasurer Kellie Sloan reported that her office processed nearly $17 million in transactions during September, including $16.4 million in property tax collections. Approximately $1.15 million remains delinquent, accounting for about 7 percent of what was billed. Sloan also noted her office issued 386 driver’s licenses, processed more than 3,000 vehicle registrations, and handled over 600 title transactions.
She highlighted the importance of surcharge funds generated by citations, which currently flow into the county’s general basic fund. Supervisors discussed the possibility of earmarking those dollars—estimated between $22,000 and $45,000 annually—for courthouse security.
Planning and Zoning, Emergency Management Updates
Zoning Administrator Joe Buffington said two subdivisions will likely appear on the supervisors’ agenda next week. He also completed a draft of the county’s new cemetery ordinance, currently under attorney review, and reported initial work on a proposed cell tower north of town.
Emergency Management Director Walt Jackson shared details of a recent search-and-rescue in Wapello County, where his department drones helped locate a missing six-year-old boy that was in a tree.
Assessor and Secondary Roads Reports
County Assessor Nate Milks announced that the state had lifted a proposed 5 percent equalization order on commercial properties, avoiding what he called a “big win” for Henry County. His office is now rolling up 2025 values to the auditor and preparing for field inspections on more than 700 properties.
County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss said road crews have been performing shoulder maintenance, brush cutting, and bridge repair work. Crews are finishing ditching near Salem and completing repairs on 162nd Street, with larger bridge projects expected to continue into next year.
Sheriff’s Office Notes Milestone
Sheriff Rich McNamee reported that the jail has now brought in more than $4 million in revenue from housing out-of-county inmates, marking the halfway point toward paying off the county’s bond for the facility. He praised staff for their work and said the county passed its annual state jail inspection.
McNamee also reported a decrease in countywide emergency service calls compared to the last two years and reminded residents about upcoming trick-or-treating schedules. He said deputies will again participate in community events by handing out badge stickers and candy.
Veterans Affairs, Courts, and Elections
Veterans Affairs Director Roger Pittsenbarger shared that his office handled 301 calls and 76 office visits in September, in addition to outreach at Old Threshers.
Henry County Attorney’s Office County Attorney’s office updated supervisors on upcoming court schedules and training events. He noted a judge recently ruled in favor of a plaintiff in a case involving the attorney’s office and the Brady-Giglio list. He also reported the office reorganization project is complete.
Before the Supervisors meeting came to a conclusion, It was brought to the boards attention that the County I.T Director, Derek Wellington has submitted his letter of resignation. KILJ is waiting for a statement from the County Auditor as the I.T Department operates under the Auditors office.
Finally, Auditor Robin Detrick said ballots for the November 4 city-school election have been approved and will be ready for early voting by October 20.