Benton County discusses future of dust control program amid equipment concerns

Benton County's Board of Supervisors meeting on April 8, 2025, spotlighted the county's ongoing dust control program, a service that has become a staple for rural residents seeking relief from dust on unpaved roads. The discussion centered around the program's costs, effectiveness, and future viability, as county officials weighed the benefits against the challenges of maintaining aging equipment.

County Engineer Myron Hennings presented a detailed overview of the dust control process, which involves applying a light asphalt product to roads to minimize dust. He highlighted that the cost for the first 400 feet of treatment would remain at $1,550, with an additional $2.60 per foot for extra coverage. This pricing reflects the county's operational costs, including labor and materials, and aims to ensure equitable service for all residents, regardless of their location.

Hennings noted that while the program has been well-received, there are concerns about the aging equipment used for application. He emphasized the need for potential updates in the near future, as the current distributor truck, a critical piece of machinery, is becoming less reliable. "There’s going to be a point here probably in the very near future where some of that’s gonna have to be replaced," he warned.

The board also discussed the competitive landscape, acknowledging that private contractors offer similar services, often at a profit. Hennings argued that the county's approach is cost-effective, providing a necessary service without the profit margin that contractors would typically include.

As the meeting concluded, the board expressed a commitment to continue the dust control program, recognizing its importance to residents. Hennings concluded with a candid reflection on the program's challenges, stating, "There are far too many people that don't appreciate what it does," while also acknowledging the significant demand from residents who rely on the service.

The board plans to finalize the program's details and pricing in the coming weeks, ensuring that residents can benefit from dust control as the spring season progresses.