Faith Freed

The agenda includes reports from the Highway Department and the County Auditor, along with Public Safety Grant requests from the LaPaz-North Township and Culver Union Township Fire Departments. Additionally, the Commissioners will review internet agreements, discuss the Cum Cap Development Fund, and provide an opportunity for public input and comment.

The Board of Commissioners addressed several departmental and project-related items. Key actions included approving highway right-of-way cut requests, ratifying a NIPSCO road usage agreement, and approving a construction change order for a bridge project. The Council on Aging presented quarterly statistics and secured approval for grant applications for transit funding. The Sheriff's Department was authorized to apply for the Comprehensive Highway Injury Reduction Program and ratified an extension for a lake enforcement grant. Additionally, the Board discussed opioid-settlement funding requests, approved a consignment agreement for an online auction, appointed a new member to the Tourism Commission, and passed ordinances regarding farm-scale solar energy systems and carbon capture.

The board reviewed and acted upon several variance and special use requests, including the construction of storage buildings, an above-ground pool and deck, a home-based sawmill, a school addition, a tree-trimming business facility, and residential garage additions. One request for a sawmill was denied due to community welfare concerns, while a variance request for a garage was withdrawn by the applicant. Additionally, a request to add on to an existing horse barn was approved.

The board addressed several development and variance requests. These included a request for setbacks to allow for a screened-in porch, which was denied; a special use request to allow a mobile home, which was denied; and a special use approval for a home-based tool sharpening business. Additionally, the board approved a setback variance for a garage construction, tabled a special use request for a propane storage facility pending further road impact information, and approved a setback variance for a residential pool. Finally, the board agreed to hear a future expansion request from a business and approved the 2021 budget.

The board conducted organizational changes, including the appointment of a President, Vice President, and Secretary. Discussions were held regarding the need for a dedicated attorney to assist with legal cases and court filings. The board addressed several specific property cases concerning health and safety violations, with resolutions involving court referrals and mandates to vacate properties until systems are brought into compliance. Additionally, the board reviewed upcoming properties for future agenda items and discussed general administrative concerns, including staffing changes within the Health Department.