Washington board expects high interest in new zoning administrator position

WASHINGTON, Iowa - The Board of Supervisors estimates it could have as many as 70 applicants for the newly created zoning administrator position.

The job is the result of the board's passing, by a 3-2 vote, a countywide zoning ordinance that takes effect July 1. The board hopes to hire the zoning administrator May 3. Annual salary will be $35,000 to $45,000.

The board agreed that the applications will be reviewed by a committee consisting of two supervisors, possibly Wes Rich and Jim Rosien, County Sanitarian Jeff Thomann, and representatives from the engineer's and auditor's offices. There may be others since the board agreed those who will work with the administrator should be involved in selecting the person who will fill the office. Deadline to apply is April 23.

The board hopes to have the review and possible final selection recommendation done the week of April 26 with board action at the regular May 3 meeting.

In a related issue, the board discussed finding people to serve on the Planning and Zoning Commission and the Board of Adjustment, boards also created by the new county zoning law.

The Board of Adjustment requires five members and the planning commission five to seven members.

Both boards need to be in place when the zoning ordinance takes effect.

By Mary Zielinski, correspondent