Price tag on Landis Bridge jumps with inflation

     With material and construction costs soaring, County Engineer Derek Snead informed the board that there may be another grant opportunity in which to replace the Landis Road Bridge.

     Previously, Snead applied for the federal BUILD Grant, which later became the RAISE Grant. That application was unsuccessful.

     Now, a new grant program might allow several Iowa counties to come together and apply for federal funds to replace several pieces of infrastructure.

     Two years ago, Snead estimated the Landis Road Bridge to cost around $2.75 million. With the increase in construction costs, his re-estimate is close to $5.8 million.

     “With the RAISE Grant, we figured $115 per square foot for a beam bridge,” he told the board. “Now, it’s between $250 and $260. That’s not realistic.”

     “Without a grant, we cannot replace that bridge,” commented Supervisor Joe Oswald.

     Snead said at that price tag, it would take decades to save up on the county’s bridge funds.

     In terms of the federal bi-partisan infrastructure bill, Snead said he is also hearing that Jones County would be getting a lot less than what was originally anticipated.

In other county business:

     • Snead informed the board that the hauling of contract rock has already begun via Wendling Quarries and Weber Stone.

     • Tom Osborne of Monticello was present to seek approval of the CLG (Certified Local Government) annual report on behalf of the Historic Preservation Commission.

     The board asked Osborne what is role entailed on the Commission, noting that the board of supervisors never appointed him to the Commission. Osborne informed the supervisors that following Rose Rohr’s passing, he took over duties as “assistant commissioner.”

     “I volunteered to do this year’s report,” he said. “I was appointed three or four years ago by Rose.”

     “The board needs to appoint you,” corrected Oswald.

     The supervisors also directed someone appointed to the Commission needs to sign off on the report, along with Osborne.

     Until an official chair is named, Osborne said Tim Fay serves as interim chair.

     The board approved the report, pending a follow-up signature.

     • The board approved 28E Fiscal Year 2023 law enforcement and emergency communications contracts between the Sheriff’s Office and various cities in the county.

     • The board awarded the bid for Broadway Place mowing and lawn fertilizing to Minger Mowing. The courthouse mowing will be done in-house.