Polk County Board of Supervisors: What to Know

Polk County, Iowa, is home to the state’s largest county board of supervisors, a governing body that plays a crucial role in shaping the region’s policies and economic landscape. Recently, the board has garnered attention due to the actions and statements of its newly elected members, Mark Holm and Jill Altringer, who have indicated their intention to maintain their previous jobs while serving as supervisors. This article delves into the responsibilities of the Polk County Board of Supervisors, the implications of dual employment, and the ongoing discussions surrounding their compensation and duties.

The Role of the Polk County Board of Supervisors

The Polk County Board of Supervisors is tasked with overseeing the county’s budget and making key decisions that affect regional economic development. Their responsibilities include:

Establishing Tax Levies: The board sets tax rates that fund essential services and infrastructure.
Enacting Ordinances: They create local laws that govern various aspects of life in Polk County.
Appointing Board Members: Supervisors appoint individuals to serve on various boards and commissions, influencing local governance.
Community Grants: They decide how to allocate community grants funded by Prairie Meadows proceeds.
Hiring and Firing: The board has the authority to hire and dismiss department heads, including the county administrator.

These responsibilities underscore the board’s significant influence on the county’s operations and the lives of its residents.

Recent Developments: Holm and Altringer

Mark Holm and Jill Altringer, both newly elected supervisors, have stirred controversy by announcing their intention to continue their previous jobs alongside their full-time supervisory roles, which come with a salary of $150,000 per year. This dual employment was not mentioned during their campaign, raising questions about their commitment to the position.

Holm works at the Iowa Department of Transportation, while Altringer, a former Grimes councilmember and attorney, serves as a lobbyist for agricultural groups at the Iowa Legislature. Altringer has stated that she has taken on a partner to help manage her workload, but the decision to juggle multiple roles has sparked debate about the expectations of full-time supervisors.

Tensions Within the Board

Tensions escalated shortly after Holm and Altringer took office when they reportedly asked County Administrator John Norris to resign. This action led to a heated confrontation involving Supervisor Tom Hockensmith, who allegedly threatened Holm and Chair Matt McCoy. Such incidents highlight the potential for conflict within the board, especially as new members navigate their roles and relationships with existing staff.

Compensation and Benefits

Polk County supervisors enjoy some of the most generous salaries and benefits in the nation. Reports indicate that they have voted to increase their salaries annually for at least the past 16 years, with a recent 4% raise. Their compensation exceeds that of county board members in similar-sized Midwestern counties and even surpasses the salary of Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, who earns $130,000 annually.

In addition to their salaries, supervisors are eligible for a deferred compensation program that allows them to save for retirement, with the county contributing $1 for every $2 they invest, up to 6% of their base salary. This financial structure raises questions about the accountability and expectations of elected officials.

The Debate on Full-Time Commitment

The county’s manual for elected officials emphasizes the importance of being available to constituents on a full-time basis. However, Holm has expressed skepticism about the supervisor position being a full-time job, despite receiving full-time pay. He stated, “I’m going to respectfully disagree with you on it being a full-time job,” which has drawn criticism from former supervisors and constituents alike.

Former supervisor Robert Brownell remarked that taxpayers expect supervisors to commit fully to their roles. He noted that juggling multiple responsibilities could lead to diminished performance in one or both positions. Brownell’s experience underscores the importance of dedicating time and effort to the supervisory role, especially given the demands of meeting with constituents and addressing community issues.

Conclusion

The Polk County Board of Supervisors plays a pivotal role in shaping the policies and governance of Iowa’s largest county. As newly elected members Mark Holm and Jill Altringer navigate their dual roles, the implications of their decisions will be closely watched by constituents and fellow board members alike. The ongoing discussions about compensation, commitment, and the expectations of public service will undoubtedly shape the future of the board and its impact on the community. As Polk County continues to grow and evolve, the effectiveness of its supervisors will be critical in addressing the needs and concerns of its residents.