Jana Nealey

The board addressed tax refund and release approvals, and adopted multiple proclamations recognizing local youth state championship softball and baseball teams. A resolution was passed honoring the service and sacrifice of a deceased deputy. The meeting included a public comment session regarding a permanent exemption request for an accessory dwelling unit on agricultural property, which was tabled for future consideration. Furthermore, the board approved the second reading of a new drug and alcohol policy for the transportation department and reviewed a significant budget amendment request for the Department of Social Services.

The board discussed several economic and facility-related items, including approval of an EDC incentive grant for Project Dial and the sale of the former Delco School to the Columbus Regional Healthcare System. Key proclamations were adopted for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and Parks and Recreation Month. Additionally, the board approved an engineering service contract for the airport terminal, a memorandum of agreement for transportation services, a new drug and alcohol policy for the transportation department, a change order for the sheriff's office project, and a contract for a boiler replacement at the courthouse annex. A DSS update was also presented and accepted.

The Board of Commissioners conducted a Regular Session involving multiple administrative and financial matters. Key actions included the proclamation of National Human Trafficking Prevention Month and Stalking Awareness Month, the official naming of Armstrong Crossroads, and the approval of the 2027 Essential Single Family Rehabilitation Program agreement. The Board also reviewed bid awards for the 2023 CDBG Neighborhood Revitalization Project and updated the 2026 Legislative Needs List to include a sports complex. Further approvals covered a budget amendment for EMS/QRV services, the second reading of an Internal Fraud Prevention Policy, and various departmental budget reallocations and project ordinances. Additionally, the Board reviewed reports from the Department of Social Services and handled various appointments to local health and committee boards.

The board held an emergency meeting to receive an update from the National Weather Service and emergency management officials regarding a forecasted statewide winter storm. Discussion included preparations for road treatment, activation of the Emergency Operations Center, coordination with various county departments, support for local warming centers, and public communication strategies. Additionally, the board formally approved a resolution to cancel the upcoming regular session meeting due to the anticipated inclement weather conditions.

The board approved resolutions regarding the counting of absentee ballots on Election Day and scheduling a meeting three days post-election to process provisional and cured UOCAVA ballots. Additionally, the Director provided a report on voter removals from January 5, 2026, to February 6, 2026, noting that 176 voters were removed.