Clark County Weighs 28% Insurance Hike, Bridge Project Set for 2026

KAHOKA — The Clark County Commission moved through a wide range of business this fall, addressing road concerns, health insurance costs, infrastructure planning, board appointments, and routine county operations across a series of meetings from early October through late November.

Commissioners Steven H. Krueger, presiding, along with Eastern Commissioner Timothy Harper and Western Commissioner Joseph B. Humes were present at each session.

Winchester road closure request moves forward

The October 2 meeting included the first reading of a petition to partially close unused streets and alleys in Winchester — specifically portions of Union, Marion and Galt streets, along with unmaintained alleys in Blocks 16 and 18. Petitioners stated the roadways have not been used publicly for over 50 years and pose an unnecessary burden. The second reading is scheduled for January 6, 2026.

County discusses courthouse landscaping; Representative visits

On October 7, Vanessa Gray of the Extension Office met with the commission to discuss landscaping ideas for the courthouse grounds. Commissioners asked for a formal plan to be submitted. State Representative Greg Sharpe also stopped in for a visit that day.

New Library Board appointment and Live Scan contract approved

At the October 9 meeting, Evelyn Dustin was appointed to the Northeast Missouri Library Service Board, replacing Diana Roberts with a term through July 2027. Commissioners also agreed to maintain current CERF contribution levels and signed a service contract with IDEMIA for live scan fingerprinting equipment at the Sheriff’s Office.

Prosecuting Attorney resigns after judicial appointment

On October 14, the commission accepted the resignation of Prosecuting Attorney Lindsay Gravett, who was appointed Circuit Judge for the First Judicial Circuit. Road inspections were completed on multiple routes including 165, 257, 271, 274, 286, 294 and 296.

Major bridge replacement planned for 2026

A key project discussion occurred October 16 as Shannon Howe from Howe Company presented details on Bridge #40700061, located on County Road 407 over Big Branch of Honey Creek. Plans call for a full bridge replacement, improving safety, flood performance and capacity. Work is anticipated to begin summer 2026 with completion projected for fall.

Insurance rates projected to rise 28%—

self-insurance explored

Health insurance became a recurring topic through October and November.

• On October 21, Alan Fay from Higginbotham Insurance reported an expected 28% rate increase for 2026, prompting discussions on alternatives, including self-insurance.

• On October 28, commissioners held another Zoom meeting with Fay and Galen Floyd of GBS specifically to evaluate self-insurance options.

• On October 30, Tammy McDaniel- Ramsey met with commissioners expressing concerns about moving to self-insurance.

• The discussion continued November 4 and November 6 with Higginbotham Insurance representatives. The county later confirmed the 28% increase during the Nov. 6 session.

Rock purchase policy enforced; supplier expresses interest

On October 21, Central Stone representative Darren Roland inquired about bidding for 2026 rock supply pricing. Commissioners later clarified on October 28 that rock cost-sharing applies only when roads serve residences — not field entrances — after Chris Kirchner requested assistance on County Road 296.

Extension programs and Farm City Night plans move forward

During the October 30 meeting, Extension representatives Lisa Doster and Mike Krauch briefed commissioners on 2026 programming and announced Farm City Night is scheduled for March 14, 2026.

Alexandria railroad crossings remain an ongoing topic

Concerns about Alexandria railroad crossings were raised October 30 and again November 6 by citizen Bruce Spurgeon. Commissioners provided ordinance documentation and noted updates will be shared when available.

Routine road checks and other business

• Roads inspected included 156, 157 & 134 on October 21, and County Road 201 on November 18.

• A ventilation inspection was performed at the county jail Nov. 6.

• November 11 was noted as a courthouse holiday for Veterans Day.

• No new business was presented November 20.

The Clark County Commission meets regularly at the courthouse in Kahoka and continues to address infrastructure, financial planning, and county service operations heading into 2026.