Jasper Board Discusses ATV Permits

Jasper County board members Thursday revisited whether to develop an ordinance permitting ATVs and similar vehicles on roadways.

The Board discussed the pros and cons of allowing permitted vehicles. A motion to continue researching the issue passed 9-3.

There was also discussion of seeking federal grant funds to finance highway safety improvements. There would have to be a 10% local match of funds.

Part of the project was to inspect guardrails throughout the county and to determine where others might be needed. The Board voted 11-1 to table the matter until next year.

Members heard that work continues on e-mail service for the board. A Wi-Fi connection is still needed for the County Board room.

Following closed session, the Jasper board voted to pay the balance due on COBRA payments for an employee on administrative leave, and to pay future COBRA premiums for that employee. The employees union agreed to amend the current contract to include language for administrative leaves of absence.

The Board also agreed to pay $890 in back pay for court security officers dating back to March 2016, and heard that Deborah Rubsam is retiring as health department administrator April 19 and that Deborah Riddle has been appointed administrator. The Board learned that the City of Newton is conducting a citywide cleanup on May 19-20.

There was discussion of a grant for emergency preparedness, and heard a complaint that a resident has around 100 dogs. The owner needs to get all of the dogs vaccinated and tagged. Also, the county treasurer's office is getting ready to accept debit and credit card payments for property taxes this year.

Board members also heard from Natalie Hobson of the Jasper County Chamber of Commerce about upcoming events. They include Strawberryfest on June 2-3, a possible Christmas in July event on July 15, Jasper County Fall Festival in September, and the Holly Jolly Christmas Event on the first two Fridays in December.