Tama County Administration Building, 104 W State St., Toledo, Iowa. TELEGRAPH FILE PHOTO

TOLEDO – As a few things melted and refroze, the usual group of characters met for the Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, Tama County Board of Supervisors meeting during which the future of Tama County Economic Development was discussed.

As part of the meeting, the supervisors approved a deal to partner with the Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce. The approved contract is for 5 1/2 years and states, “the County desires to provide coordinated, professional economic development services supporting business retention, business attraction, workforce development, housing, and community vitality throughout Tama County.”

The leathery voiced President/CEO of Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce, John Hall, was on hand to answer questions and give information. One of the possibilities discussed by the Supervisors with this new future of economic development was the option of turning the old STC middle school into a new jail for Tama County.

Other business

To start the meeting, Tama County Engineer Ben Daleske provided his usual report, this time talking about the current condition of roads. Sand and salt will be mixed this week as everything melts, then refreezes, and the winter cycle continues.

There is no contract yet for the yard cleanup at Union Grove Lake; however, the supervisors moved forward to approve paying an approximately $1,000 bill. Doland voted nay to this motion, mentioning the want for a contract in place first.

Claims totaling $61,915.05 were approved.