A sinkhole that was first discovered in April 2023 and repaired since has now reformed south of Knoxville. The sinkhole prompted a response from county officials Tuesday along 135th Place – which has remained closed since last spring.

KNIA/KRLS has received confirmation from Marion County Emergency Management that the sinkhole reformed late Monday evening, and is located in the same spot as the one that formed last year. County officials are urging anyone from going to the scene due to the safety hazard.

“We are strongly encouraging citizens to not visit the site and that the road continues to remain closed,” said Marion County Public Information Officer Emily Feagins.

After an investigation, Marion County leadership determined in August 2023 that the initial sinkhole was a result of limestone mining in the area, and found Bruening Rock Products, Inc., liable for repairs, which started last August.

Beyond confirming the road remains closed and that residents should avoid the area, both Marion County Emergency Management and the Marion County Road Department declined to comment, citing the need for further investigation.

The Marion County Board of Supervisors have called for a special meeting Thursday to enter into closed session, citing Iowa Code Chapter 21.5(1)(c). This is “ to discuss strategy with counsel in matters that are presently in litigation or where litigation is imminent where its disclosure would be likely to prejudice or disadvantage the position of the governmental body in that litigation.” It is unclear whether or not they will be discussing the sinkhole; however, the meeting was called Tuesday after emergency crews had responded to the scene.