Woodbury County approves temporary speed-resolution, plans sign replacements

The Woodbury County Board of Supervisors voted to approve a temporary resolution affecting county road speed policy after a presentation from Kyle Gates, assistant to the engineer. Gates said the county will audit paved road sections, review passing zones and rumble-strip placement, and replace signs as its primary method of implementation.

"We're going to try and check all of our roads before we post them to B60," Gates said, and added that the county had "elected to forego the stickers and go straight to just replacements because of the time involved" — a decision he framed as a more efficient use of staff time and funds. Gates identified police and road-design factors that will determine final markings and posted limits.

The board moved the resolution (motion by Dietrich, second by Nelson) and approved it by voice vote reported as unanimous. The resolution text presented at the meeting referenced maintaining a 55 mph standard temporarily while paved sections are reviewed; during discussion Gates also used language referring to a 60 mph change, a discrepancy noted in the meeting record.

The resolution directs county staff to complete field reviews and make signage updates; Gates said the work will include checking no-passing zones and line assignments. The board did not set a final, permanent speed for each segment at the meeting; the resolution provides for county staff review and follow-up before any permanent posting changes.

Board members emphasized the need for careful, safety-focused field review before permanent changes. The motion passed unanimously.