Benton County e-Newsletter
July 2019
|
|
Love County Natural Areas and Parks? Take our annual survey
Benton County wants to understand how county parks are used by how many patrons, and how we can improve the user experience for future generations. The 2019 survey focuses on Bellfountain Park, Fort Hoskins Historic Park, Fitton Green Natural Area, and Irish Bend Park. The information will be used to inform the department’s strategic plan and help set priorities for maintenance and improvement projects, as well as where to consider adding amenities, such as trails, picnic areas and restrooms.
|
|
County Commissioners adopt $311.2M Budget
The Benton County Board of Commissioners voted on June 18, 2019 to approve (3-0) a budget in the aggregate amount of $311,150,549, and approve the maximum tax rate of $2.2052 per $1,000 of assessed value for the 2019-2021 biennium.
Despite new revenue sources, the adopted budget was unable to match General Fund current revenue to current expense. Approximately $2.3 million of reserves were required to balance the General and Local Option Levy Funds. The County will be challenged this budget, and the 2021-23 budget, to maintain current services levels, let alone fund expansion to keep pace with population increases and other demands.
|
|
Grant application period open for non-lethal animal damage control
The Benton County Agriculture and Wildlife Protection Program (AWPP) funds a merit-based, cost share, reimbursement grant program for non-lethal wildlife deterrents. The grant application period is now open.
Non-lethal wildlife deterrent equipment, devices, and housing which proactively protect livestock and crops are eligible for reimbursement grant funding. Beaver deterrents to protect trees or prevent flooding are also eligible for funding. Examples of non-lethal deterrents include, but are not limited to: guardian animals, certain types of fencing, birthing sheds, visual and acoustic scare devices, and flow devices such as beaver pond levelers.
|
|
County Roads Maintenance - July 2019 Schedule
Grinding and paving will begin on Springhill Drive between Highway 20 and Scenic Drive on Saturday, July 13, 2019. This work was originally scheduled to begin the week of July 8, but was postponed due to weather. Travelers should expect delays, especially if they live on or are visiting a residence located on the dead end roads that receive access off of Springhill Drive. The rural sections of Springhill Drive will receive a centerline rumble strip treatment to assist mitigating the frequency of head-on collisions and road departure crashes.
More Springhill Drive information.
County Roads Division began chip seals in North Albany on Monday, July 8, 2019. Roads will have temporary signs one to two days in advance with dates of chip seals.
See all roads.
Starting the week of July 22, 2019, Airport and Sexton Roads will undergo a one-day stabilization process that includes rocking and grading.
The Skunk Creek Culvert Replacement on Oak Creek Drive starts the week of July 22, 2019 also. Beginning Monday, August 5, 2019 the road will be closed at milepost 2.05 on Oak Creek Drive. It is anticipated that the road will be closed approximately 15 days.
More information.
|
|
Participate in the 2019 Benton County Fair & Rodeo
Become a Vendor
Last year more than 26,000 people attended the Benton County Fair & Rodeo. We have renamed our commercial building the Funporium and in addition to vendor booths we have packed the building with family-friendly attractions including Puzzlemania, First Force Robotics, a gaming area, and the new Storytelling Stage. Vendor applications are being accepted now:
https://www.bentoncountyfair.net/p/get-involved/vendors.
Best of the Best Talent Search
Competitive Exhibits
It may be a hobby, but you’re good at it! It’s time to share your passion by entering what you create into one or more of the competitions at the 2019 Benton County Fair.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
