The Henry County Board of Supervisors met Thursday morning, September 18, to approve routine business items, hear infrastructure updates, and address upcoming projects and funding matters.
Fremont Avenue Bridge Project
County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss presented two motions related to a bridge replacement on Fremont Avenue over an unnamed creek.
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Right-of-Way Contract: Supervisors approved a right-of-way and construction contract for Project LBC-1725547344. The project will replace a small bridge with a cast-in-place concrete box culvert south of the Skunk River Conservation area.
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Construction Plans and Letting Date: The board also approved construction plans and set a letting date of October 23, 2025. Hotchkiss explained that while contractors may begin preliminary work this winter, the official start date will be in spring 2026.
The project, funded with local construction dollars, is expected to take approximately eight weeks once work begins. Hotchkiss added that next year’s construction season could see as many as three box culvert projects and a bridge replacement, representing an unusually high level of activity and investment.
Road Maintenance and Rock Resurfacing
Hotchkiss reported ongoing maintenance efforts, including seeding and topsoil placement along Old Highway 34, shoulder repairs, and rock resurfacing southwest of Mount Pleasant. Crews are also addressing drainage issues on Franklin Avenue and continuing routine sign work, mowing, and brush control. Blade operators are on standby for gravel road grading once moisture levels allow.
Jake Brake Ordinance Discussion
The board revisited citizen concerns about truck engine braking (“Jake braking”) in the Winfield area. Hotchkiss explained that adopting an ordinance would require countywide signage at major entry points and enforcement by the sheriff’s office. Supervisors agreed to follow up with the sheriff before pursuing further action.
Urban Renewal Resolution
Supervisors approved Resolution 28-2025, certifying an $8,903.50 advance from the Community Betterment Fund for administrative costs associated with the Hershey Hall Urban Renewal Project. The certification allows the county to reimburse itself with future tax increment financing (TIF) revenues.
Landfill Operations Update
Landfill President Lynn Whaley presented the monthly landfill and recycling report, noting tonnage levels remain consistent with recent years—projected to end near 645 tons for 2025. Spring cleanup collections boosted numbers in April. Whaley also reported facility improvements, including new signage, freshly painted barriers, and repairs to a soft spot in the entryway floor. Crews discovered rotting subflooring and are replacing it with stronger materials to prevent future damage.
Committee Reports
Supervisors shared updates from regional boards and planning groups, including Great River Housing Trust Fund, Southeast Iowa Regional Planning, Mississippi Valley, and Southeast Iowa Community Action. Topics included ongoing transportation discussions with SEIBUS and progress on a new Head Start facility in Fort Madison.
The Henry County Board of Supervisors meets regularly to oversee county operations, infrastructure projects, and budget matters. The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 25, 2025, at the Henry County Courthouse.