Road and Bridge updates: culvert repairs, tractor leases and ongoing FEMA appeal discussed

Neosho County’s Road and Bridge superintendent reported progress on several maintenance and equipment items at the Jan. 20 meeting, including a repaired culvert, ongoing tractor lease discussions, procurement of a replacement compressor and an outstanding FEMA funding appeal.

The superintendent said crews poured a base on the failed culvert on Ottawa Road and will continue wall work, weather permitting. Commissioners were told that engineering firm CFS inspected other sites and that a preliminary agreement on John Deere tractor leases has been signed as a nonbinding step while the vendor checks availability. The superintendent said the county is exploring leasing three tractors this year and that the equipment program has reduced downtime for mowing operations.

On disaster recovery, staff reported that FEMA denied funding for the Old River bridge south of Erie; staff filed an initial appeal and said sometimes subsequent appeals (including elevation to Washington) can yield different results. Commissioners were informed that staff would continue to pursue appeals as appropriate.

The board also heard a request to inspect a site near 59 and 80th Road where erosion was reportedly undermining a box culvert; Road and Bridge staff said they would investigate and recommended shot rock if needed. Staff also reported they are still evaluating compressor options and awaiting specifications from a vendor.

Separately, the commission approved a motion to allow Road and Bridge to hire an equipment operator at the county’s established rate. The motion was seconded and passed with an affirmative vote recorded.