County Roads Getting Attention

Road Superintendent Randy Bymer updated the Kimball County Commissioners on Tuesday about road issues within the county, and then the discussion turned to the purchase of one or the possibility of purchasing two new road graders.

In the update, Bymer reported that two truck drivers are hauling rock for a chip seal project. One mile of Road 37 has been graveled, and a discussion with zoning administrator Sheila Newell has taken place for direction in adopting a driveway policy.

The commissioners are considering abandoning the minimum maintenance road called Forsling Road, which is 2.3 miles long. A resolution to begin the process of abandoning the road was passed. Now a road study must be done on the road, with a review of maintenance records and a history of sign usage on the road. The process is expected to take 2-3 months.

Next week is the target date for maintenance on the Dix road. Materials have been purchased and delivered to the site.

Bymer and a representative from Murphy Tractor Co. explained to the commissioners that Caterpillar won the state bid for motor graders, which will be locked in on June 21. The state bid will be selling graders for the 2020-21 price, but the machines will be 2023 models. Murphy Tractor representative Travis Fix said that the price is at a “significant discount” of about $100,000.

Kimball County will trade in a 1991 Caterpillar model 140F and purchase a 2023 John Deere 770G Motor Grader for $264,558. With the “significant discount,” a lengthy discussion occurred on whether or not to purchase an additional grader.

Finally, it was decided to purchase the 770G and to wait until the next meeting to discuss an additional motor grader.

Interim Building and Grounds Superintendent Steve Warner discussed the need for renovating the wheelchair ramp and sidewalk on the north side of the courthouse. Two bids have been received, and the commissioners asked for a third bid. The two bids received were a little over $22,000 for the renovation.

In other county business, County 911 Coordinator Alicia Downey brought up the need for the sheriff's office to take credit cards. The commissioners approved credit cards transaction for VIN inspection, gun permits and bonds.

Newell also presented a zoning report and then presented the County Planning Commission's recommendation for amendments. A public hearing has been set for June 21 for the proposed amendment to the county zoning and subdivision regulations.

Finally, with no action taken, a discussion is continuing on spending the $700,000 ARPA funds. Topping the list of possible expenditures are a boiler and chiller for the courthouse. Next in line for ARPA funds is the remodeling of the county clerk's office. The remodel will cost between $90,000 to $120,000.

The next meeting for the county commissioners is Tuesday, June 21.