Jasper Board Hears from Latona Man

Jasper County board members Thursday heard from Latona resident Paul Burnell, who is concerned about the lack of proper signage at an intersection in his community.

Burnell told the Board of a three-car crash at an intersection by his residence in Latona, which is an intersection involving a county road. He said one car involved in the collision ended up really close to his house. He asked for a "Stop Ahead" sign along the approach to the intersection, and a new reflective sign at the intersection. 

Board members said they'd discuss the matter with the county engineer.

The Board heard that work is about to begin on seal coating the Shamrock Road. The pavement preservation project is supposed to progress at about 16 miles per year. The project has been given IDOT's okay.

Board members heard from Newton Mayor Mark Bolander, who'd like to see tourism and hotel/motel tax revenue go to the Jasper County Chamber of Commerce. The Board also heard from Chris Rogers of Air Evac, who was given permission to talk with County employees about his service. Also approved was a three-year agreement with Holbert and Phipps to perform the County audit for $24,000, $24,500 and $25,000.

Board members approved a Drug Court resolution presented by Jasper County State's Attorney Kevin Parker allowing the Circuit Clerk to collect a five-dollar fee on certain fines to cover the cost of Drug Court. It was also agreed to grant Jasper County employees a half-day off on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve and full days off on Christmas Day and the following day and on New Year's Day and the following day.

The Board named Jeannine Fell and Carlotta Barbee to three-year terms on the Board of Health, David Helregel to a three-year term as a trustee of the Captain Pond Drainage District, and Board Chairman Ed Mitchell to a two-year term on the Board of Review.