IOWA CITY

Johnson County’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget of $165 million is adding another $13.5 million in expenditures in the Fall Amendment.

Dana Aschenbrenner, Finance Director, said much of the additional expense is related to Johnson County Jail bond referendum costs and improvements at the Johnson County Historic Poor Farm.

A public hearing on the Fall Amendment will be held during the Board of Supervisors’ formal session Sept. 17.

The additional expenditures also include expected land purchases, Aschenbrenner told the Board during an Aug. 26 work session. A proposed new jail and sheriff’s office, pending a $94.5 million bond referendum in the November election, would be located near the Historic Poor Farm.

Water Damage

A water main break last March is leading to extensive repairs at the County Courthouse Annex building.

Dave Curtis, Facilities Manager, told the Board that the water main break caused damage to the building and recommended a building stabilization and an overhead door concrete masonry infill. Total costs are expected to be more than $110,000.

The Board will consider finalized costs at a future session.

Board Action

The Board approved a five-year strategic plan, which was the result of months of meetings and public forums.

The Board approved a waiver of satisfaction with due diligence items connected with a Cruise Furman LLC property purchase agreement (former Carquest location).

The Board issued proclamations in honor of Library Card Sign-Up Month and the dedication of the Dr. Lulu Merle Johnson Plaza, which took place Aug. 29 in front of the Johnson County Administration building.

Next Meeting

The next formal session is scheduled for 9 a.m. Sept. 3.