Board approves ISG contract for environmental liability amid high injury claims

The Benton County Board of Supervisors convened on July 15, 2025, to address several key issues affecting the county's operations and future planning. The meeting began with a discussion regarding a contract with ISG, a consulting firm. A board member reported a productive conversation with ISG's general counsel, who agreed to incorporate essential terms into the contract, including provisions for mediation and the rule of law. The board moved to approve the contract, with a motion made to authorize the board chair to sign it, which passed unanimously.

Next, the board reviewed updates from the county health department. It was noted that the department would face a reduction in federal funding, impacting their budget. The health department plans to provide further details in a future meeting.

The discussion then shifted to the county's insurance claims, with a report indicating that Benton County is currently at the top of the list for expenditures related to claims. The primary causes of these claims were identified as incidents involving inexperienced employees and deer-related vehicle accidents. The board was advised to include specific liability coverage in contracts with general contractors to mitigate potential environmental risks.

Additionally, the board discussed upcoming training requirements related to open records and meetings, mandated by state legislation. This training will be necessary for all elected and appointed officials, with the possibility of online sessions being offered for convenience.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of an upcoming mock OSHA audit, which will be unannounced and aimed at ensuring compliance across various departments. The board emphasized the importance of preparing for this audit to maintain safety standards.

Overall, the meeting highlighted significant operational challenges and proactive measures being taken by the Benton County Board of Supervisors to address funding issues, insurance claims, and compliance training. The board plans to continue monitoring these matters closely in future sessions.