County sues landowner over burned bridge
Staff writer
A controlled burn that rekindled, got out of control, and damaged a county-owned bridge March 19, 2023, over Turkey Creek has triggered a lawsuit by the county against property owners who started the fire.
According to a petition filed by county counsel Brad Jantz, the fire was on property owned by David and Catarina Rhiza and the Rhiza Revocable Farm Trust.
The county road and bridge department closed the road and enlisted professional assistance to determine the extent of damage and alternatives for repair, Jantz’s petition says.
The Rhizas were negligent in maintaining the burn, the petition states.
The bridge, on 350th Rd. west of Nighthawk Rd., was closed because it was unsafe to use.
Two wooden posts completely burned away. Another was missing a third of its length.
At that time, Jantz said he would contact Rhizas’ insurance company if needed.
A section of a county burn resolution in effect at that time says burns are conducted at the sole cost, risk, and expense of the individual.