Mills County opens public hearing and approves first reading of ordinance to regulate residential care facilities

The Mills County Board of Supervisors held a public hearing and approved the first reading of ordinance 26-06 on July 8, proposing a new Mills County code chapter titled "Residential Care Facilities." The hearing was opened at 08:25 and closed at 08:37.

Sheriff (speaker 2) described recurring incidents at outlying residential care homes, including a recent event that consumed two deputies for roughly two hours when an employee was assaulted and left the scene. The sheriff said staffing shortfalls at some operators lead to deputy responses that divert county resources. County Attorney (speaker 11) told the board the ordinance is designed to address operational deficiencies by requiring corrective plans and enabling penalties; however, county authorities cannot revoke state-issued facility licenses, which remain under state jurisdiction (DHHS/licensing agencies).

Residents at the hearing pressed how the county would enforce minimum staffing requirements and what remedies would exist if operators failed to comply. County Attorney and sheriff clarified the county can impose penalties and notify state licensing agencies but lacks authority to revoke state licenses directly; the ordinance provides a pathway to require corrections and to recover some county costs where appropriate.

Following discussion the board moved and seconded to approve the first reading of ordinance 26-06 and to place the second reading on next week's agenda, with staff to provide copies to interested parties. The record shows the motion carried on roll call.

The ordinance is now at first-reading stage; the board indicated intent to schedule a second reading and potential final action at a subsequent meeting.