Government : Benton County Board of Supervisor Minutes 8/21/20

August 21, 2020

The Benton County Board of Supervisors met in regular session with Supervisors Primmer, Bierschenk and Seeman present. The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m. Members of the public were provided the zoom access capability to join in during open session and watch live at the county's YouTube channel. Unless otherwise noted, all actions were approved unanimously.

Seeman moved/Bierschenk seconded: To approve the law enforcement contract with City of Urbana to provide police protection for a total yearly sum of $3,250 to be paid quarterly. Motion carried.

Continued discussion on the county facilities restrictions to the public due to COVID and looking at ways to start opening it up more. Auditor Hayley Rippel brought up the first half of taxes are due September 30. It will be hard to tell people they need to make an appointment to pay their taxes. We've spent plenty of money on the added security measures and disinfecting supplies to keep employees as safe as we can. Primmer reminded everyone that as a board they were waiting until September 15 to do anything different. It has been going on for two and half months, so its nothing new. He'd also like to have recommendation from local health officials and invite them back to the September 15th board meeting. County Attorney David Thompson said security people are doing what they've been told to do. When someone arrives without an appointment, then the elected official can be called. The Recorder pointed out, when we discourage people from bringing phones into the building, some aren't able to give us a call if they don't have a cell phone when they get to the doors and see the signs posted. Controlling the flow of people in the building and keeping loitering down is the main goal. Sheriff Tippet added, that above all, the county has to protect its employees, and do its part to protect citizens who are in the buildings.

It was agreed to allow those in to pay taxes without an appointment, but still limit the numbers coming in and have them go through the screening process, temperature checks and proper health questions asked.

Seeman moved/Bierschenk seconded: To enter into closed session at 9:24 a.m. pursuant to Iowa Code 21.5(1)c. Motion carried.

Seeman moved/Bierschenk seconded: To exit closed session at 10:20 a.m. Motion carried.

Seeman moved/Bierschenk seconded: To take action on what was advised in closed session. Motion carried.

Bierschenk moved//Seeman seconded: To adjourn. Motion carried.

_______________________________

Rick Primmer, Chairman

ATTEST: _________________________________

Hayley Rippel, Benton County Auditor