County prepares plans for Old Cass Rd. project

   Secondary Roads is planning for a maintenance project on Old Cass Road.

   During the July 2 Jones County Supervisors meeting, Assistant Engineer Todd Postel brought the board up to speed on the proposed project.

   The project is located about a half mile north of Anamosa city limits. Postel said the embankment has started to slide. Secondary Roads would tackle the project on their own, but specialized equipment is needed.

   The engineer's estimate is $40,000.

   "We'd have to do our own excavating to get our equipment in," noted County Engineer Derek Snead. "It's cheaper with the right equipment; more bang for our buck, and a quicker turn-around time. It'll be less of a road closure."

   Postel said the private property owner has agreed to allow access to their field for the potential contractor.

   "We'll do the traffic control take the excess material to our X-31 project," offered Postel.

   The board approved a notice to bidders, with a letting on July 23.

In other county business:

   • The board appointed Ed Green as a rural representative to the Anamosa Library Board.

   • The board approved the Fiscal Year 2024 financial report for Heritage Agency on Aging.

   • The board approved tenant lease agreements of office space at Broadway Place Annex. There was no change to the terms and conditions.

   • The board approved the hiring of Kallie Ruhl as a full-time jail officer effective July 8, at $21.01 an hour.

   • County Auditor Whitney Hein informed the board that a preconstruction meeting regarding the courthouse first-floor restroom renovation project was held with contractor Peak Construction Group Inc. out of North Liberty. The tentative start date is Nov. 15, with a completion date of April 1, 2025.

   • Land Use Administrator Whitney Amos met with the board on two nuisance issues.

   Regarding 22188 162^nd Ave., Monticello, Amos said she has not had any contact with the owner. The board directed Amos to send a letter to the owner noting that once the brush is cleared, the county would abate the nuisance.

   Concerning 17678 180th St., Langworth, the board had Amos send a letter to the owner, noting that the refuse has to be kept organized and the weeds have to be kept under control before the county will abate.

   • The board tabled approval of the road dedication policy.