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Kalona City Administrator Ryan Schlabaugh and Council member Steve Lafaurie presented an overview of the project to the Supervisors.
When asked a hypothetical question by Supervisor Chairperson Jim Miksch of why county tax money should be spent for Kalona, Schlabaugh stated there would be an increase in the tax base from the anticipated improvements to the Kalona businesses. Lafaurie stated the grant would stimulate economic development for Kalona as well as the county. There would also be an increase in tax generation from direct sales from the expansion of tourism volume.
The Board would provide a grant committal letter, which Schlabaugh requested, and the letter would be forwarded with the Vision Iowa Grant application submission in late December.
Supervisor Davis voted in opposition to the funding commitment by the board, stating his concerns about spending limitations, which may be needed for the 2010-11 budget. The work on that budget would begin in December and Davis sited the economic conditions, which are anticipated to reduce the county tax receipts.
The Board approved completing a grant agreement through FEMA, which will fund the preparation of a Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. County Engineer David Patterson stated that the East Central Iowa Council of Governments in Cedar Rapids will prepare the plans for Washington County and the majority of the cities in the county. The plans will detail emergency and relief efforts to be implemented by the various local agencies in the event of natural or situation disasters. Patterson stated that ECICOG would meet with the county and cities and prepare the plans within the next six months. FEMA is providing $28,584, Iowa is providing $3,811 and the county will provide in-kind work in the amount of 15 percent or $5,717.
Two personnel change requests were acknowledged by the board. The employment of Michelle L. Wade with Washington County Communications was terminated on Oct. 31. Sabrina Greiner will end employment with Washington County Conservation on Nov. 11.
The board approved letters of support for Housing Rehabilitation Programs for Wellman and Washington. The program's federal funds provide support for ongoing housing improvements in the communities administered through ECICOG.
The Board of Supervisors approved the re-appointment of Liz Kaufman of Ainsworth for another 5-year-term on the Washington County Conservation Board.
Supervisor Jim Rosien was appointed by the board to serve as the county representative for the City of Washington Main Street Committee. Current representative Teresa Todd will serve as alternate.
Miksch requested a discussion item be placed on the agenda for the supervisors' meeting on Nov. 17. It is anticipated that the Washington County Board of Health will have a recommendation concerning the relocation and building needs of the Public Health Department to present at the meeting.
