By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

During the May 19 meeting of the Guthrie County Board of Supervisors, County Attorney Dana Minteer’s resignation was discussed. The letter of resignation states an effective date of May 31. County Auditor Dani Fink explained that the supervisors may appoint someone to fill the vacancy.

Supervisor Mike Dickson suggested waiting until results of the June 2 primary election are known before the supervisors appoint someone. Fink said if the supervisors appoint someone, it must be done within 40 days, or the matter goes to a special election.

“With the election in June, I would just like to see the results of that,” Dickson said. “We could do it the ninth.”

Supervisor Brian Johnson made a motion to appoint someone to fill the vacancy during the next meeting of the supervisors on May 26. The motion passed on a 4-1 vote with Dickson opposed.

Health Services Director Jotham Arber discussed Adair County Shared Services.

“Adair County, their public health director has left, so their public health currently is housed underneath their hospital,” Arber said. “The hospital approached us and asked if we would be willing to come in and do a similar agreement to what we have with Audubon County to take over their public health responsibilities and cover them for those things.”

Arber gave a written proposal on this issue for the supervisors to review for future discussion.

On behalf of the All-Iowa Republican Women organization, Heather Boustead asked the supervisors to consider approving a request for the group to use the courthouse grounds on June 19 for a reading of the Declaration of Independence. Boustead explained that no tables or chairs would be set up, and the group would do the reading at approximately 11 a.m. on the June 19 before moving on to the next county, as the group plans to read in six counties that day. The supervisors approved the request.

A public hearing was held regarding the proposed Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget amendment. No written or spoken comments were received, so the hearing was closed.

The supervisors then approved Resolution 26-34 to adopt the budget amendment as proposed.

As part of the consent agenda, a fireworks permit was approved for Rita Schering, July 4 at dusk.

 The supervisors meet regularly on Tuesdays at 9 a.m. The public is welcome to attend in person at the courthouse or via remote technology. To join remotely, call 323-792-6123, then use meeting code 547029216#.

Special to the Times Vedette

Whiterock Conservancy is bringing new ways to learn and grow at Whiterock Conservancy through its free STEM summer adventures program.

Saturday, May 30, begins the STEM adventures with “Sparking Curiosity.” Adventure-goers will learn the process of starting a fire and then enjoy campfire s’mores.

This program is for students ages 6-12 years old. All students must be accompanied by an adult or babysitter.

Register for one or more of these free events by calling 712-790-822 or emailing guestinfo@whiterockconservancy.org.

Special to the Times Vedette

Guthrie County will begin a full highway rehabilitation project along County Road P28/Wagon Road between Stuart and the Monteith Road starting late May or early June, weather permitting. County leaders say the project reflects the county’s continued investment and commitment to smoother, safer, longer-lasting roadways for residents, farmers and anyone traveling along one of the county’s main corridors.

Construction will require the closure of P28/Wagon Road to through traffic from the city of Stuart to Monteith Road for the duration of the project. The closure is expected to remain in place through mid-to-late summer, depending on weather and construction progress.

While the road will be closed to through traffic, adjacent property owners will continue to have access to private driveways and laneways throughout the project.

During construction:

• Through traffic will not be permitted on P28 within the project limits.
• Local access will be maintained for residents, landowners and emergency services.
• The official detour route will direct drivers along White Pole Road, Highway 25, and Monteith Road.
• Detour signage will be in place to guide drivers safely around the closure.

Information for visitors and campers at Nation’s Bridge Park

Access to Nation’s Bridge Park will stay open for the duration of the road closure. Through June, visitors and campers should access the park entrance on Wagon Road coming from the north via Panora, Monteith Road or Highway F59/280th Road headed southbound. Starting in July, visitors and campers should access the park entrance on Wagon Road coming from the south via Stuart headed northbound. Campers are encouraged to check the Guthrie County Conservation Facebook Page for route information and changes.

This rehabilitation effort will go beyond resurfacing to include several key safety and durability improvements, including:

• Widening of the roadway to improve traffic flow and safety.
• Installation of shoulder and centerline rumble strips to alert distracted drivers.
• Creating a stronger road surface and smoother driving experience.

County officials say they appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as crews work to improve this important roadway corridor. For project updates, visit www.guthriecounty.gov or follow Guthrie County on Facebook.

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

On the morning of Saturday, May 16, dozens of ATVs and side-by-sides were parked at the Guthrie County Fairgrounds as riders awaited the start of the annual Red, White & Blue Cruise. The ride raises funds for area veterans. Riders signed up for raffles and the poker run, heard reminders on safe riding, and then set off on the “choose your own route” adventure to various participating food and drink establishments.

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The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation’s (IFBF) Take Root program is helping farm families by creating a two-day summer immersive workshop, “Real Talk to Real Timelines,” from Aug. 12-13 at the West 48 Conference Center in West Des Moines. Designed for multigenerational farm families, the workshop builds on the success of IFBF’s Take Root program, offering a structured, hands-on setting to begin important succession planning conversations and build a clear path forward for the future of the family farm.

“Real Talk to Real Timelines” will provide farm families with guided conversations, facilitated planning sessions and one-on-one time with an attorney and other planning experts to achieve a clear, actionable transition plan. A tangible succession plan binder will help family members navigate the transition planning process while establishing the family farm vision, roles, ownership structure, governance, tax considerations, pay and benefits, long-term strategy and more.

“For more than a decade, Iowa Farm Bureau’s Take Root program has helped hundreds of farm families navigate one of the most important conversations they will have — how to preserve not only their farm operation, but the values, relationships and legacy behind it,” Amanda Van Steenwyk, IFBF farm business development manager, said. “This immersive workshop is designed to give families the time, guidance and support to make thoughtful decisions together and leave with a completed workbook that outlines their vision, roles, ownership strategy, timelines and next steps — creating a meaningful path forward for a smooth transition and a lasting family farm legacy.”

Registration for Real Talk to Real Timelines: A Take Root Immersive Farm Succession Workshop opens May 18 and is limited to 10 Farm Bureau member families. The cost is $150 per family and $50 to add two additional family members.  Early bird registration for $50 off through June 8 using promo code “FBEARLYBIRD.” For more information, or to join Iowa Farm Bureau, visit www.iowafarmbureau.com.

Special to the Times Vedette

On May 15, a total of 12 players participated. Several players got 16s. Dave Coffman had a 24.

On May 18, a total of 10 players participated. Bill Sheeder and Robert Klever each got a 16; Chet Vaughan got two 16s; and Dave Kading had a 17.

The Guthrie Center cribbage players generally meet at Guthrie Center Library, 400 Grand St., on Mondays at 8 a.m. and at the New Homestead independent living dining hall, 2306 State St., at 8 a.m. on Wednesdays and at 1 p.m. on Fridays. Organizers say there is always room for more, and they will be glad to teach you how to play. They play for quarters on Wednesday and Friday.