by Amanda Rink, Editor
The Wright County Board of Supervisors met Monday morning to discuss a range of county matters, including the loss of grant funding for conservation projects, changes to the state’s mental health system, and road maintenance updates.
Lost Grant Money for Conservation Projects
During public input, Conservation Director Eric Rector informed the board that a
cooperating partner had to return a $1 million grant that was intended for nitrogen-reducing wetlands. There was a lack of willing landowners for the project.
The county also had to turn down $156,000 in habitat funding after failing to reach an agreement with another partner on land acquisition. Supervisor Dean Kluss acknowledged it as a missed opportunity in the county.
Liquor License Renewal for Eagle’s Nine & Dine
The Supervisors approved a liquor license for Nine and Dine in Eagle Grove, pending dramshop insurance coverage. Iowa’s dramshop laws hold alcohol-serving establishments liable for damages caused by intoxicated patrons, which requires insurance. The license is valid through 2026.
Mental Health System Changes Raise Concerns
The board discussed upcoming changes to Iowa’s mental health system, with Supervisor Betty Ellis providing updates on the county’s participation in a regional mental health advocate program with Webster, Humboldt, and Pocahontas counties. Currently, Humboldt County acts as the employer of record, with costs shared between the counties.
However, Iowa is transitioning to a new state-run behavioral health system
under the Iowa Public Agency Consortium (IPAC), leaving questions about funding. Ellis noted that while these positions are expected to remain secure, the state did not allocate transition funding, leaving counties uncertain about how to cover costs before the state takeover in July.
“The state forgot to fund a transition period,” Ellis remarked, noting that this oversight could create gaps.
In other business the Board:
– Approved using a PPO plan under Assured Partners for county employees. The discussion about switching to a Point of Service plan at a later date is fluid.
– Heard from County Auditor Amanda Meyer who appointed Deb Neshein as the new Deputy Auditor.
– Heard from Wright County Engineer Adam Clemons that snow removal
went well last week, along with 12 other work orders, and that the concrete plant of Goldfield donated broken concrete to the county to use for spot rock, shouldering projects, and riftraft. He also mentioned that crews working on the Voss Quarry bridge are working on footings on the east side.
Wright County residents can view this meeting and past on the county’s official YouTube channel, YouTube.com/@WrightCountyIowaOfficial8312. The next Wright County Supervisors meeting is March 3, 2025, at 9:00 A.M.
