Benton supervisors work on election, flood insurance and office space

VINTON — The Benton County Board of Supervisors acknowledged the postelection audit on Vinton’s second precinct from the 2024 primary election and approved the canvass of the primary election during its June 11 meeting.

The board discussed excess flood insurance for the sheriff’s office. The insurance company wants to increase the building value while keeping the value of the contents the same.

The premium would go from $14,954.06 to $16,074.21. The board approved the change.

The board approved utility permits for Alliant Energy on 22nd Avenue Drive in Taylor Township and for Interstate Power & Light Co. for 60th Street in Jackson Township.

Food Pantry representatives told the board they don’t have enough storage space for their office at the service center or transition of space for the pantry.

They said their space gets smaller and smaller. The board discussed access to electrical and fire panels and a new freezer. The supervisors said they would look at this after the meeting.

Supervisors were informed that a clinical care coordinator has been hired with a July 1 start date.

Supervisors approved early retirement incentive for Karen Uthoff at the sheriff’s office and approved the renewal of the Iowa State Association of Counties Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act program.

This includes training and consulting.

Mark Erickson, Benton County Transportation, met with the board regarding Fiscal Year 2025 and a 3% employee raise for his position.

The previous director, Dean Vrba, requested no increase, passing that raise on to his employee.

The raise was approved.