Photo Courtesy of Ryan Duey

Bobby Shomper, Highway Administrator, presented the weekly report and opened with asphalt bids. Shilling Construction Co. submitted the lowest bids for Projects 1–4, totaling nearly $1.7. The Board unanimously approved the Shilling bid for Projects 1–4. Shomper also reported on routine road maintenance, equipment preparation for winter, and upcoming projects, as well as the installation of several pipes.

EMS Director Alec Trembath reported the department is on emergency run number 49 for 2026. Staffing shifts are being adjusted due to personnel changes, and PRN staff from Miltonvale will assist with EMS coverage in two Cloud County townships. The department continues training, is reviewing protocol ahead of testing, and received a replacement auto pulse battery.

Sheriff Alan Benninga gave the weekly report, noting an out-of-county accident involving a transport vehicle. The employee was not injured, but the vehicle will need to be replaced. After discussion, the Board unanimously approved the purchase of a $7,000 boat for county rescue operations, to be paid from the Sheriff’s Capital Outlay Fund.

Clay County 4-H Shooting and Archery instructors Clayton Presley and Josh Brownell requested heaters for the Beef Barn at the Fairgrounds, where growing youth programs currently train without heat. The Board approved a $600 donation from the Parks and Recreation Fund to purchase three patio heaters and propane tanks.

Tracy Myers, Travel & Tourism, presented a report on 2025 activities, noting work on new Highway 24 brochures that will soon be distributed and will now include Clay County on the maps. She said visitors commonly use the Explorer website and the new Clay County app to find destinations and events. The Board requested that Travel & Tourism reports be presented quarterly.