Quarry Expansion Moves Forward, Department Heads Workshop FY26 Plans

ALLISON — The Butler County Board of Supervisors approved zoning changes tied to a quarry expansion, advanced a major subdivision proposal and moved forward with infrastructure and budget planning during its Jan. 27 regular meeting.

Supervisors approved an ordinance amending the county’s official zoning map to allow a proposed expansion of the Oltman Quarry operated by BMC Aggregates. The action rezoned 77 acres from A-1 Agricultural to A-2 Limited Agricultural following a public hearing and a recommendation from the Butler County Planning and Zoning Commission. The change clears the way for continued quarry operations on the property.

In other land use business, the board approved a preliminary plat for the BLP East Addition subdivision, located in the southwest quarter of Section 34. The development includes two lots totaling more than 146 acres and will be built in phases. Approval came with a condition requiring an expanded storm sewer easement to meet county subdivision standards.

Terri Halbach was appointed Butler County Judicial Mental Health Advocate, aiming to support mental health challenges associated with the court system.

Department heads outlined anticipated increases in operational needs for the 2026 fiscal year. Environmental Health and Zoning officials discussed the addition of a water quality protection and monitoring line to support a groundwater study in partnership with the Iowa Geological Survey. Public Health reported rising software and salary costs alongside declining client numbers, while Veterans Affairs noted increases tied to training requirements.

The county’s Information Technology Department reported significant cost increases related to software contracts and licensing, including the addition of 39 new Office 365 users across multiple departments. The Sheriff’s Office reviewed staffing needs and announced plans to require new deputies sponsored through the academy to sign five-year contracts aimed at improving retention. The County Engineer outlined a budget request that relies heavily on state and federal funding for road and bridge projects.

The meeting ended after Supervisors awarded a state-let bridge contract for the replacement of the 120th Street bridge over Flood Creek. The project was awarded to Boulder Contracting LLC of Grundy Center after submitting the lowest bid, and the board authorized the county engineer to execute related contracts through the Iowa Department of Transportation’s electronic systems.