The Official Newspaper for Foster County
The Official Newspaper for Foster County
Ballot questions took over the Foster County Commission meeting last week with new information for the board and some research needed before measures can be filed.
During the meeting held on Tuesday, August 16, the board discussed the two mills the county extension agent is asking to be put on the ballot.
The county extension must either circulate a petition with 20 percent of qualified voters signing the petition to get the measure on the ballot, or the commission can approve the two mills without the petition.
If a petition is needed, then it must be filed 64 days before the election or by September 5.
If the commission approves the request for two mills, then it must be filed 46 days before the election or by September 23.
Foster County State’s Attorney Kara Brinster said she would research the request further and check the language for the ballot.
In other business:
• Another discussion ensued about a ballot question that pertains to the Foster County Historical Society.
The historical society is asking for an extra $5,000 or 3/4 of a mill.
They already receive 1/4 of a mill, but more money is needed to keep the historical society running.
Brinster said no petition is required in this instance, but they will need a resolution to present to the commission.
They would need the resolution by September 23 to get their request on the ballot.
Brinster said under statute, the commission can give up to $5,000 to the historical society, but they do not want to set a precedent.
As the Farm to Market Fund is set to expire in 2024, the board has been considering putting that question for 10 mills on the ballot. They figure they have the 2022 general election, the 2024 primary election and the 2024 general election to get it passed before it expires.
The board talked about waiting until the primary election of 2024 to put it on the ballot.
No action was taken.
• Brinster informed the board that the opioid settlement is coming to an end and they should receive a check for $870.36. She said it would be one of a few checks to come out of the settlement.
• The first meeting in October will be held on Thursday, October 6th.
• Commissioner David Utke said he met with the building committee and they agreed to recommend to the commission that they request a proposal from EAPC to remodel the lower level of the courthouse. Motion passed.
• Commissioner Alan Scanson suggested all county board minutes be put on the county’s website. Including water board minutes, weed board minutes, etc. He said any board that the county funds.
All agreed. Motion passed.
• Foster County Road Superintendent Nate Monson reported that the Old Wright Bridge was approved for repair for 2024 with 100 percent federal dollars. The problem is the county must pay to rebuild the road going to the bridge.
• Monson said he purchased a porta-potty for the Grace City shop for $320.00.
• Finally, Monson reported that he will be advertising the 1991 Ford pickup (old blue) for sale on sealed bids.
