Wayne County engineer reports roadwork progress; business owner seeks repair to 200th Street bridge

County Engineer Dillon Davenport told the Wayne County Board of Supervisors on Feb. 17 that crews have fitted excavators with mulching/grinding heads to clear roadside ditches near Seymour and north of Millerton, that two roadside mowers are operating on gravel roads, and that mantis equipment work on intersections and curves is complete; crews will next focus on mainline brush. Davenport reported the bridge on 245th Street is open to traffic, the motor grader is pulling shoulders and reshaping roads, and rock will be applied from Highway 2 to Jubilee Road.

The board approved a motion directing the county engineer to make a discretionary payment related to a vehicle accident involving county property; the motion was made by Lance Lange and seconded by Chris Moore and approved by members present.

During public comment, local business owner James Stutzman told the board the bridge on 200th Street has a 10-ton weight limit that prevents deliveries to his business and to neighboring business owner Vernon Mullet. Stutzman asked the board either to repair the bridge so it can carry heavier loads or to upgrade 200th Street south of his residence to a Level A road to restore delivery access. Chair Chris Moore said he was not previously aware of the situation and will gather more information to bring back to the board.

The board also approved routine department monthly reports and the claims list. Auditor Michelle Dooley noted that Sheriff Davis has hired the department's final deputy, who is expected to be sworn in at the March 3 meeting.