Residents concerned about dust from semis

Concerns from residents dealing with dust issues occupied a large part of the Foster County Commission meeting last week.

During the meeting held on Tuesday, November 1, Shaunette Koenig, Jim Sherman and Clinton Sherman attended the meeting to discuss their concerns about the large amount of dust floating around on 66th Avenue between Barlow and Highway 52/200 due to semi trucks on the road.

Clinton Sherman said due to the dry conditions, he has never seen so much dust. He said his children cannot play outside because of the layer of dust that floats in the air.

Koenig said she is fearful every time she leaves her driveway because she cannot see if a semi is coming due to the dust.

The group asked the board to lower the speed limit from 55 to 35 for the time being.

Commissioner Alan Scanson said he thinks they should consult the state’s attorney before taking any action on the speed limit.

A motion to lower the speed limit to 35 miles per hour failed.

In other business:

• The board discussed blading and snow removal contracts for townships.

All agreed that the rates the county charges are well below other counties and should be increased.

• Commissioner Becky Hagel brought up a discussion about closing the courthouse during inclement weather.

She suggested they have a late opening as another option.

She said on several occasions last winter they closed the courthouse, but then the parking lot was cleaned out and employees were able to come to work.

• Foster County Interim Auditor Ellen Roundy brought up a short discussion on updating the door security system on the courthouse.

• Commissioner David Utke brought up one change he would like to see in the culvert policy for clarification.

• The board discussed a federal grant for culverts with aquatic species moving through them.