Resident group presses supervisors for full cost-benefit analysis before moving Public Health and veterans services into courthouse

Vicky Brenner of Winterset told the Madison County Board of Supervisors that residents "deserve full transparency and a well documented cost benefit analysis" before the county moves Public Health and Veterans Affairs into the courthouse and sells the Public Health building. She listed specific questions about ADA accessibility, privacy and confidentiality for veterans, refrigeration and vaccine certification needs, office space for current and future staff, and historical‑preservation compliance.

"Will the courthouse fully meet ADA requirements including but not limited to restrooms?" Brenner asked, and she warned the board that the courthouse’s highly public setting could deter clients with PTSD from seeking services. She also asked for a formal transition plan with sign‑offs from impacted stakeholders and said the decision should prioritize county services rather than expediency.

Board members acknowledged the concerns and said staff will follow up. Supervisors noted they are awaiting information from the ADA liaison and from HHS on compliance requirements and will consult the assessor and state historic‑preservation staff as part of the review. No final decision was reached and the board directed staff to gather more information and narrow options for a future meeting.

The issue returned to the agenda under "old business," and supervisors said further stakeholder engagement and a detailed, documented analysis are needed before the board proceeds with any sale or relocation. The board did not set a final date for a decision; staff follow‑up and additional information from state agencies were the next steps.