Jolissa Bates

Discussions primarily focused on personnel, technology upgrades for dispatch services, and reports related to recent weather events. Key personnel actions included approving the hiring of a part-time administrative assistant for the community corrections department. Technology discussions covered the review of Rapid Notification and Rave products, which aim to streamline dispatch alerts and improve responder communication during incidents, contrasting these with the existing Civic system which caused issues with unwanted weather alerts. The department also reported on the successful resolution of radio interference issues and the installation of new lighting at dispatch. Furthermore, audit findings regarding dependent agency agreements were addressed, and the backup generator's battery was replaced following weekly testing procedures.

The meeting included approval of the previous minutes. Department reports covered the request for approval to hire two part-time employees for 911 dispatch, noting that two current employees are in training. Discussions also addressed the implementation of the Stat Flight button and Rapid SOS systems. A significant portion of the meeting focused on a proposed schedule change for the department, shifting from ten-hour shifts to a combination of eight-hour and twelve-hour shifts for full-timers to reduce overtime costs by approximately 30 hours per two weeks. Furthermore, an appropriation request for $31,000 to cover overtime expenses for the remainder of the year was submitted for council review. Finally, the department head requested a letter of commitment from the commissioners to approve the replacement of two aging trucks (a 1999 and a 2001 model) with two new Freightliner trucks, priced at $268,400 each, noting that ordering two identical units now would simplify maintenance parts inventory. The possibility of utilizing future funding sources for the second truck was also discussed.

The meeting involved discussions on zoning code updates, specifically regarding accessory dwelling units and accessory uses, with clarifications sought on language and placement within the code structure. A significant portion of the discussion focused on yard exceptions, intersection visibility, and regulations concerning manufactured homes, including minimum HUD size requirements. The commission addressed temporary uses, debating which items require Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) approval versus staff approval, particularly concerning temporary events like bazaars, carnivals, and haunted houses. Furthermore, there was an extensive clarification regarding property lines versus easements, especially concerning fence placement and utility access. Discussions also touched upon septic system and well permit requirements for manufactured homes in rural areas.

The meeting commenced with the pledge of allegiance. Key discussion points involved various committee reports and departmental updates. A significant discussion focused on the approval of volunteer rules and regulations for the Animal Shelter. Community Corrections received approval for a part-time administrative assistant position. Emergency Management reported on a grant received from RMC for support during severe weather events. A major topic of concern was the need to update the county map, which has not been revised since 2001, including the addition of new roads; this update requires external quotes and input from emergency services personnel. The Highway Department received thanks for their efforts during recent snow removal operations. Board appointments were addressed, including the appointment of a new member to the Eastern Indiana Planning Commission. A lengthy debate ensued regarding the Manlet Park project, specifically addressing concerns about a deviation from the original DNR proposal concerning soil movement on 23 acres, which raised questions about supporting documentation, potential funding ramifications, and compliance with grant agreements. Furthermore, the need for installing a water softener for the courthouse boiler to prevent damage from raw water was confirmed. The topic of bulk buying programs was revisited, noting ongoing contact with an Amazon representative regarding potential cost savings, contingent upon obtaining necessary data for analysis.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the minutes from the previous session. Department reports included the request to hire several personnel for the maintenance department, including a full-time employee with robotics skills to assist with jail electronics and courthouse electrical work, and two part-time workers who will split available hours. A proposal for a water softener installation at the courthouse, estimated between $3,000 and $6,000, was discussed as a means to improve heating system performance. Future projects for the jail involve renovating blocks and removing graffiti upon the opening of the women's facility. A significant personnel action was the approval of Samantha Caldwell as the new 911 Director, with Kylie Osborne being promoted to her former full-time position, and Lucinda Maiden being brought on part-time. Additionally, the commission approved sharing GIS information with Ball State University's urban planning department for an economic development project concerning the county. Concerns were raised regarding the lack of a budgeted transition plan for the County Planner position, emphasizing the complexity of planning laws, especially flood plane regulations, and the associated legal and financial liabilities.