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Supervisors review drainage repairs; trustees to reclassify nonbuilt laterals in DD92 and appoint reclassification for DD65
Summary
Officials discussed a plugged tile on DNR land, whether DNR will pay repairs, and historical reclassification errors in DD92 that included laterals never built; the board appointed a reclassification lead for DD65 to finalize payment schedules.
Winnebago County trustees reviewed recent drainage problems, historical map errors and a repair that may require district funding. An on‑site spot dig revealed a plugged perforated tile forcing water to surface; staff reported the plug sits on land managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and trustees said any DNR cost share must be confirmed in writing before billing the district.
The auditor and trustees discussed the billing process: if the DNR will accept responsibility it must provide written confirmation; otherwise the drainage district will likely cover the repair and the trustee expects the district to assess affected landowners. Staff emphasized the need for written commitments before finalizing assessments.
Separately, staff presented findings on drainage district DD92. Historical records showed suggested laterals on maps that were never constructed; during the 2019 reclassification some of those nonbuilt laterals were mistakenly included in schedules. Staff recommended trustees abandon nonexistent laterals so the district schedules reflect only the built main line and existing laterals. Trustees asked for time to review documentation and will revisit abandonment formally at a subsequent meeting.
On DD65, staff reported repair work on a tile and said an accurate schedule is required before paying a contractor. The board moved to appoint Jac Westerard to reclassify DD65 so the proper schedule and responsibilities can be confirmed; the motion carried by voice vote.
Next steps: staff will seek written confirmation from the DNR if it agrees to pay its portion; trustees will receive documentation on DD92 laterals before any formal abandonment action; Jac Westerard will proceed with DD65 reclassification to finalize contractor payment details.
