During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the current state of the county's road maintenance and the implications of recent staffing changes. The meeting revealed that there are no plans to hire additional road crew workers, raising concerns about the county's ability to maintain and upgrade its roads effectively. Currently, the county operates with only one and a half road workers, which has led to questions about how main and secondary roads will be serviced.

Officials indicated that temporary workers could be brought in to assist with road maintenance, but the process for hiring these workers remains unclear. The discussion also touched on the need for bids for road work, with some members expressing frustration over the lack of clarity regarding contracts and the scope of work expected from contractors.

Concerns were raised about the quality of recent road work, with reports of deep ruts remaining even after blading. The highway superintendent is responsible for overseeing contractor work, but there were questions about the effectiveness of this oversight.

The meeting also addressed the county's financial situation, with discussions about a proposed opt-out for an additional $300,000 to support road maintenance. Some officials expressed skepticism about the necessity of this funding, arguing that the county should explore alternative budgeting strategies instead of relying on taxpayer money.

The conversation highlighted a divide among officials regarding the management of road maintenance and the effectiveness of outsourcing work to contractors. Some members advocated for a return to a more robust county road crew, citing past efficiencies and cost savings.

As the county navigates these challenges, the future of its road maintenance strategy remains uncertain, with ongoing discussions about staffing, funding, and the quality of work performed by contractors.