COMMISSION HEARS FROM COLONY ABOUT ROAD

    The Marshall County Commission met Tuesday. Representatives from Westwood Colony attended the meeting to address concerns about the rough condition of County Road 4, west of County 9. They inquired about the possibility of paving the gravel road, which Highway Superintendent Dustin Hofland estimated would cost approximately $350,000 per mile, plus reconstruction. An alternative solution of applying magnesium chloride was discussed, with an estimated cost of $50,000 per mile plus additional graveling. Representatives from the Northeast Council of Governments (NECOG), who were present at the meeting, said they would look into potential grant opportunities to assist with funding.
    In other business, the commission approved the purchase of a John Deere tractor for a final payment of $32,000, which had previously been leased. Additionally, surplus items were declared for sale on Big Iron Auctions, with a list of items to be published in next week’s meeting minutes.
    Emergency Management Director Logan Roehr provided an update on ongoing projects, including collaboration with Southbow, the new owner of a local pipeline previously operated by TransCanada, to complete emergency response training. Roehr also reported that the county’s emergency siren is currently nonfunctional due to courthouse construction interfering with its power source. He will work with the construction crew to get the siren back up before severe weather season.
    The commission also approved a motion to authorize County Treasurer Amanda Streier on all Marshall County bank accounts.
    During the zoning portion of the Marshall County Commission meeting, approvals were granted for a drainage request from CNH Farms, LLC by Nick Heitmann in Lake Township and a plat for Price 1st Subdivision in Hickman Township. A building permit was also approved for Dale Pitzl in Eden Township. Officials provided an update on a resident who failed to obtain a required building permit, with efforts ongoing to resolve the issue. Additionally, the board received a report on E911 Addressing projects, which continue through the winter to ensure all parcels are properly recorded. For full details, refer to the official zoning minutes.