County formally turns down sale of dam
Over the past few months, the Jones County Board of Supervisors have discussed amongst themselves and offered opportunities for the public to share their thoughts on the future of the Mon Maq Dam in Monticello. During the Sept. 19 board meeting, the board took unanimous action against considering the sale of the dam for private or non-profit ownership.
Supervisor Joe Oswald complimented the effort and excitement out there in saving the dam, but admitted he had some reservations in selling the structure.
“Long after we’re all gone, will our kids and grandkids continue to care for the dam or allow it to go downhill,” asked Oswald. “If no funds are raised, who does the dam go back to?”
He said he would be in favor of considering the sale of Mon Maq should the City of Monticello show some interest, though.
Supervisor Ned Rohwedder agreed. “Monticello would be the only people I’d consider (selling to) because they have a vested interest with their sewer plant,” said of the sewer plant’s vicinity to the Maquoketa River and Kitty Creek.
“I don’t think private ownership is a good option for us at this time,” added Rohwedder.
Oswald also offered that he heard if the dam were under private ownership, in the event of a flood, that person/organization would not be eligible for FEMA funding.
“I’d also hate to slow the progress that’s already in the works,” concluded Oswald.
In other county business:
• The board approved a $4,020 change order for the courthouse sidewalk project.
• Michele Lubben, Land Use administrator, informed the board on matters coming before the Board of Adjustment at their Sept. 19 meeting.
Dean Wood, Anamosa, applied for a variance because the signs on two separate buildings on his property violate the county’s sign ordinance. He has two wall signs and wishes to add additional square footage to what’s already installed.
Lubeen later reported that the BOA approved Wood’s variance request to keep both wall signs and, allowed for 2-by-8-feet of additional signage.
Arvin Danielsen, Wyoming, has plans to build a new house on the same parcel as an already existing older home, and applied for special permitted use. He intends to turn the older home into a seasonal dwelling.
The BOA also approved the permit.
• Lisa Mootz, IT coordinator, met with the board to provide a quote from REM Electric for new flat-screen TVs for the Board Room and Community Room within the courthouse.
Mootz sought two quotes from local retailers, and said she only received information back from REM.
The board approved the purchase of two 75-inch TVs from REM for $8,399. The equipment will be used for presentations to the board.
• The board offered their support for Kathy Koerperich, JETS director, to move a part-time driver/office staff to full-time.
• The board appointed Darrick Hall of Anamosa to represent the supervisors on the Jones County Compensation Board. This is a four-year term.
Kris Gobeli of Monticello also serves as a supervisor compensation representative.