Commissioners hear ARP sewer start date, DOT authorization issue; Cooney Falls path paving funded by grant

During commissioner reports on Oct. 8, Lincoln County officials briefed the board on several public-works items, including an American Rescue Plan-funded sewer project, a walking-path paving project at Cooney Falls and plans to reissue a concessions contract.

Commissioners said the ARP-funded sewer project is scheduled to begin Oct. 14. County staff reported they had received a notice from the Department of Transportation asserting the county lacked authorization to work in a DOT right-of-way; staff member Andy said the county will begin work on portions not involving the DOT right-of-way and will resolve the authorization before reaching the DOT portion.

A commissioner noted that utilities were expected to be present and described the DOT notification as unexpected; the board directed staff to work through the matter so construction can proceed. The meeting record did not include a specific timetable for resolving the DOT authorization or name the DOT contact.

Separately, commissioners announced that the Troy road crew will repave and connect two segments of the walking path at Cooney Falls; the paving will be funded by a Fish, Wildlife and Parks grant, the commissioners said. The board also discussed reissuing the concession/caterer contract for the recreation area next year to broaden interest and better meet county needs.

During public comment, a resident asked whether a motion/resolution for the election administrator position had been updated and ready for review; the resident said, "I talked I talked to Melody about it last week, but it isn't finished yet." The board noted the resolution remained in preparation and did not give a timeline for completion.

The meeting recessed after public comment and adjourned with no additional formal actions recorded on these items.