Randall Bruland

The Board reviewed and discussed valuation changes for the year 2026 presented by the County Assessor. Following this discussion, the Board approved nineteen valuation adjustments for undervalued and overvalued properties. It was noted that property owners will be notified of these changes and have the right to appeal within thirty days.

The Board approved a $1,000,000 transfer from the General Fund to the Road Fund and reviewed and approved county payroll claims. Additionally, the Board approved Payment Application #2 for the Albion Northwest Road Project and authorized updates to the Visitor Promotion Fund guidelines, which include increased caps for event and county tourism promotion effective July 1, 2026. Public comments included discussions on weed force control, road conditions, gravel suppliers, and a request regarding flower planters at the courthouse.

The Board of Equalization met to discuss tax list corrections for the 2025 tax year. Specifically, the Board reviewed and approved Tax List Correction No. 502, which granted tax-exempt status to a parcel of land owned by the City of Albion due to a clerical error. No other valuation changes were presented during the session.

The board reviewed and accepted a proposal for auditing services for the 2026 fiscal year. Significant time was dedicated to discussing and finalizing wage and benefit increases for various county departments for the 2026-2027 Fiscal Year Budget. Additionally, the board approved the purchase of a new laptop and docking station for the Veteran's Service Office. Discussions were held regarding planning for the Courthouse 50th-anniversary celebration, a property weed removal notice, and an inspection of basement storage space.

The board addressed several financial matters including the transfer of accrued interest from the Covid American Rescue Plan Fund to the General Fund, approval of various vendor claims for accounts payable, and payroll processing for terminated employees. Reports from various county officials were reviewed and accepted. The board also reviewed the fiscal year budget request for District 5 Probation and an agreement for budget preparation services. Discussions took place regarding wage increases for county employees, which were tabled for a future meeting, and the board authorized the advertisement for sealed bids for a surplus ambulance. Furthermore, the board designated a printing service for the joint public hearing process, approved a bond interest payment, accepted a distress warrant report, and agreed to sign a letter urging the allocation of funds toward broadband connectivity. A public hearing was held to amend the Zoning Regulations concerning the Floodplain overlay district, resulting in the approval of the changes. Additionally, the board convened as the Board of Equalization to facilitate the protest of property valuations.