The Webster County Board of Supervisors has purchased some land from one of its members in order to prepare for a road project.

The board on Tuesday bought about 2.3 acres along Riverside Trail from Mark and Crissan Campbell for $15,000. Mark Campbell, who is the chairman of the board, did not participate in any discussion on the matter Tuesday and abstained from the otherwise unanimous vote.

Webster County Attorney Darren Driscoll said the purchase was based on an independent appraisal. He said he believes the purchase was completed ”appropriately.”

Part of the newly purchased property is an embankment that needs to be rebuilt as part of the repair of a section of Riverside Trail.

County Engineer Jamie Johll said that section, which is south of U.S. Highway 20, was damaged by flooding in 2018.

He said the embankment consists of clay on top of shale. Some of that material will be excavated out and replaced with big rocks called riprap, he said. Riprap is commonly used to prevent or reduce erosion.

After the embankment is rebuilt, the road will be repaired. Johll said he will ask the board to award a contract for the work soon.