Hardin County authorizes bids for 70x160 secondary roads storage building; approves permits and routine business

The Hardin County Board of Supervisors voted Jan. 28 to authorize the county engineer to advertise for sealed bids for a 70-by-160 storage building for the county’s secondary roads department, approving a Feb. 24 pre-bid meeting and a March 11 letting.

Taylor introduced the request and an unnamed department representative described the condition of the existing truck shed and the need for a new storage building. “So our truck shed has had problems…this would house our snowplows,” the presenter said, noting the structure will include a drive-through wash bay and that the project will be paid from department reserves, with some costs likely spanning the next fiscal year.

Supervisors approved the notice to bidders by motion; the board recorded aye votes and the motion carried. The board also handled routine business on Jan. 28: approval of the Jan. 21 minutes, claims dated Jan. 28, and acknowledgement of the exchange of initial proposals under Iowa Code 20.17(3) related to labor contract negotiations.

The board approved a fireworks permit for Alden Days with the operator listed as Flashing Thunder Fireworks and the event date given as June 20, 2026. Questions about the event address were raised on the record but not fully resolved during the discussion.

The board acknowledged receipt of the sheriff’s January 2026 report and the auditor’s January report; both acknowledgements passed with motions and recorded aye votes. The meeting closed after no public comment was offered and a motion to adjourn carried.

What happens next: the county engineer will advertise the bid package, hold the Feb. 24 pre-bid meeting, and proceed with letting on March 11 unless the board takes further action.