Des Moines County supervisors consider ordinance to curb engine braking on Sullivan Slough Road

The Des Moines County Board of Supervisors spent an extended portion of its Aug. 4 meeting discussing complaints about trucks using engine- or compression-braking on Sullivan Slough Road and whether the county should adopt an ordinance to curb the practice. County and public-safety officials said voluntary compliance has reduced incidents but some residents reported early-morning disturbances that have continued.

KG, the county sheriff, described the stretch as a sensitive location where braking causes a disturbance: "It's certainly a place that's on a a steep decline." County staff and supervisors debated options ranging from site-specific signage to a countywide ordinance with enumerated posting locations. Brian Carter, who leads road and traffic operations for the county, told the board he would not erect signs unless the board also adopted an enforceable ordinance: "I wouldn't recommend a sign unless you're gonna pass an ordinance."

Supervisors discussed two main approaches: a narrowly targeted ordinance or a broader county ordinance that lists specific posted sites and allows the board to add locations later by resolution. Several supervisors and the county engineer said a site-specific ordinance tied to a clear description or mile markers would make enforcement and sign replacement easier. Staff indicated they could draft an ordinance framework and a process for posting locations for future board action. The board directed county staff and the county attorney to draft ordinance language for the board to consider at a later meeting.

Why it matters: residents living near steep descents said repeated engine braking disrupts sleep and quality of life; supervisors balanced that local impact against the practical limits of enforcement and the fact that engine braking has legitimate uses in some locations. Next steps: staff and the county attorney will prepare ordinance language and a posting procedure for board review, and the county will continue outreach to trucking contractors and site users in the meantime.