Webster County treasurer reports revenue gains, asks board to consider moving office back to bank building

Webster County Treasurer Brenda Angstrom told the Board of Supervisors on July 29 that the county’s investment income and motor-vehicle-related receipts have increased significantly and that changes to title and fee rules are returning more revenue to the county. Angstrom said county investments increased by $267,825.76 for the most recent reporting period and that motor vehicle and title-related revenues rose after state changes that allow counties to retain additional title fees and a larger share of road-use taxes. She said the county now keeps an extra $10 per title fee and additional funds that could amount to roughly $30 more per title than under the prior structure. Angstrom asked the board to consider returning the treasurer’s office to the bank building used during courthouse renovations because customers praised the drive-through service and the layout provided more privacy and accessibility for elderly and disabled residents. She listed modest repairs and upgrades she would request before moving — painting, carpet cleaning, privacy dividers or teller station protectors, chair replacements, window protectors and addressing heat from windows near printers — and suggested the office could delay moving until just before tax season to allow repairs to be completed. Supervisors raised security and building-condition concerns. Sheriff Luke Fleener and other county staff discussed having periodic security checks or bailiff backup during busy seasons and the possibility of installing a permanent security presence. Facilities and maintenance concerns were emphasized: supervisors said the bank building’s air-conditioning and cooling systems have been unreliable this summer, and the county’s facilities manager and supervisors noted multiple buildings require HVAC work. The board asked Treasurer Angstrom to assemble a punch list and cost estimates for the move, including HVAC repair needs and any security expenses, and to put the work out for bids or estimates when ready. The board did not take a formal vote that evening; members said the discussion was intended to flesh out benefits and potential costs and to return with firm estimates before taking official action. Supervisors asked staff to evaluate HVAC/maintenance needs, compile a written cost estimate for necessary repairs and cosmetic work, and consider options for periodic or ongoing security during peak customer periods.