Walworth County Commission meeting Tuesday, October 4, 2022

The Walworth County Commission held a regular meeting on Tuesday, October 4th.

Public Forum

A Java resident voiced concern about the 55mph speed limit behind her home on Highway 271.  She said a friend’s dog was hit by a vehicle recently, and she wanted to know what could be done about reducing the speed limit on that stretch of the highway.  Commissioner Scott Schilling gave her a number to call and asked her to let them know what she finds out.

States Attorney

The commission passed a motion to accept the fair and final neutral release of all claims on the Akaska culvert issue.  Commissioner Schilling wanted the public to know that he was not happy with the outcome and would have liked the county to receive more.

Highway

At the recommendation of Highway Superintendent Gary Byre, the commission tabled a temporary easement with Matt Arbach for access to gravel regarding a barbed wire fence around a stock pile.  Byre would like further review by the States Attorney.

Emergency Manager

The commission approved a Mutual Aid Agreement with Agtegra for grain bin rescue training.

They also approved travel requests for Emergency Manager Jeff Jensen to attend mitigation training in Pierre and a Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation program in Watertown – both are required for the Emergency Manager position.

All five fire departments and the Sheriff’s office were represented in a recent full scale exercise.  Jensen said several of the attendees commented that they need to do more of this kind of training.

Jensen also discussed with the commissioners some thoughts on the Homeland Security Grant, Site 54, radio programming with the new software, and Lake Hiddenwood.

Sheriff

Sheriff Josh Boll handed out monthly reports.

The commissioners approved the amended surplus list for the Sheriff’s department.

Auditor

Commissioner Schilling will attempt to set up a meeting with Brown County to discuss how Walworth County could fit into their plans for a regional jail.

Auditor Deb Kahl recommended that the commissioners read carefully the Memorandum of Agreement on the South Dakota Opioid Settlement before acting on it.

Veterans Service Officer

The appointment of Pete Weinzirl as Veterans Service Officer was approved.