Woodbury County supervisors renew $10 million liability policy, affirm DNR review role and approve land-use items

At a regular meeting, the Woodbury County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the county's 2026 liability insurance renewal, adopted a resolution to retain local review rights with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources on large animal confinement sitings, and approved routine planning and personnel items.

The most immediate decision was a renewal of liability coverage at the $10,000,000 level. Melissa Thomas of human resources introduced the item and called on a county presenter identified in the transcript as Pat, who reviewed three renewal options and recommended the county keep its existing $10 million policy. Pat said the recommended option was priced at $407,000 for the year, about $50,000 higher than the prior year, and included a $300,000 deductible. "I do recommend the $10,000,000 in coverage for the year," Pat said in presenting the options. The board approved the renewal on a motion by Supervisor Nelson, seconded by Supervisor Dietrich, by a 5-0 vote.

On land-use and planning matters, Dan Priestley of planning and zoning presented the zoning commission's final report and recommended actions…