The commissioners revisited a request to vacate a public right-of-way that was first discussed at their previous meeting. Following discussion, the board approved an ordinance to vacate a portion of roadway located on 645 North, adjacent to corner Lot 7. The property address is 7700 E. County Road 400 North in Greensburg.
Highway Department representative Tim Ortman reported that the department logged 1,543 man-hours during the most recent winter storm, praising staff for their hard work and dedication. Ortman also noted that the department advertised for bids for CCMG Grant 2026-1, with applications due back by February 15. In addition, the department is working to close out FEMA reimbursement amounts related to the spring 2025 storm. Commissioners asked Ortman to look into the potential costs of adding parking along County Road 200 between the ball diamonds and Park Road.
EMA Director Mike Snyder shared that he has applied for a Duke Energy Grant in the amount of $2,500 to support winter weather response efforts. The grant requires no matching funds and could be used to purchase electric salamander-style heaters, emergency tape, and supplies for the county’s warming shelter.
Area Plan Commission Director Doug Westerfeld presented the AYPA Reimbursement Agreement and provided an update on the Comprehensive Plan Survey. Westerfeld said the survey remains open but is expected to close later this week, with approximately 179 submissions received so far.
The commissioners reviewed a quote from Waggoner, Irwin, and Scheele & Associates to conduct a salary study for the Animal Shelter and Parks Department. The proposed scope included reviewing and editing job descriptions, examining FLSA status and classifications, and evaluating salaries. The quote ranged from $4,950 to $6,250 plus expenses, significantly lower than another proposal received for $27,500.
During discussion, Commissioner Brian Wenning questioned the need for another salary study, noting that one had been completed approximately two years ago. Wenning also asked why some of the work could not be handled internally by the county’s HR department rather than hiring an outside firm.
Commissioner Jeremy Pasel responded that the county has consistently had to exceed salary study recommendations when hiring department heads to attract candidates, stating his belief that Decatur County is once again behind on salaries.
After further discussion with Patty Hensley, the commissioners agreed that a salary study for only two departments could likely be handled in-house. They also expressed concern that the county might pay for the study without ultimately adjusting salaries. As a result, the board voted to table the request.
The commissioners also reviewed and approved the Fairgrounds Rental Contract, which outlines prohibited activities, renter guidelines, security requirements, and associated costs throughout the fairgrounds.
Additionally, the board approved the Fair Tractor Pull Contract for the 2026 Decatur County Fair.
The meeting concluded with discussion on upcoming plans to update the Annex. Barnes Construction will conduct an exterior scan of the building to create a detailed drawing of the property, which will be used to solicit quotes for future work.
