Tom Swierczewski, a representative for Conifer Power Company, gave an update on the Salt Creek Wind project during the Monday, August 1 meeting of the Tama County Board of Supervisors. Swierczewski presented compiled data by economist Dr. David Loomis, Ph.D. Illinois State University, for the Economic Impact Analysis of the project, copies of which are available at Salt Creek’s Toledo office located at 213 West High Street.

According to Swierczewski, Salt Creek Phase 1 (170-megawatt project) is estimated to create 486 jobs in Tama County, generate $24 million in new earnings for the county during construction, and contribute $50.5 million in total new taxes to the county in the first 30 years of the project’s life – half of which will go to school districts.

In other business, the board:

–Approved Resolution 81 2022A to reclassify a 1,800-foot portion of E Ave. between Montour Corporate Limits and US 30 to a Class C Roads while bridge repairs continue in the area. This gate-restricted road will be available to lessee or landowners of adjoining land and their agents or employees, peace officers, magistrates, road maintenance, agent or employee of utility companies.

-Added a Safe Streets for All grant application to next week’s agenda, which is a grant from the Iowa County Engineer’s Association to develop a local road safety plan for each county in Iowa.

-HR is implementing the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for Tama County employees this month, to aid with mental health, legal representation, and emergency services.

-Claims totaling $97,226.05 were approved.

-Amelia Kemper was appointed temporary recorder for the county.

-Approval of FY23, City Property Tax Levies for Tama County for the fiscal year of 2022-2023.