Mercer County rescinds fire ban, approves zoning change and defers leave policy decision

The Mercer County Commission on May 21 approved a zoning case and a temporary use permit, rescinded a county fire ban after recent precipitation, and deferred a proposed change to vacation accrual rules pending further work with new software.

Tax Director Jen Neumiller presented Zoning Case #25-05-01 for a non-farm residence (Carson Moore, Tract 1 in SE4 in 2-142-88). Commissioner Jamee Folk moved to approve the zoning case and Commissioner Rick Bauman seconded; the commission voted unanimously to approve. Neumiller also presented Temporary Use Permit #654 for a scoria pit; that permit was approved by unanimous vote.

Treasurer Dawn Grannis provided additional information about the State Aid Distribution and the board placed the item on the next agenda for further consideration. HR/EM Director Alice Grinsteinner asked the commission to rescind the fire ban because of significant recent precipitation; Commissioner Casey Voigt moved to rescind the fire ban, Bauman seconded and the board unanimously rescinded it.

Grinsteinner raised changes needed to the vacation and sick leave policies to align with Mercer County’s new Tyler software. Commissioner Voigt moved to change vacation accrual from hourly to monthly and Commissioner Bauman seconded; Voigt then rescinded his motion and the item was placed on the next agenda.

The board approved a preliminary design quote of $8,940 for renovations to the J2 Studio building. State's Attorney Todd Schwarz advised the board against entering into the A1 Auto Leasing contract; the minutes record the advice but no formal contract action was taken.

The meeting adjourned at 11:20 a.m.; the next regular meeting is scheduled for June 4, 2025 in Stanton.