The meeting began with the approval of the February meeting minutes.
Sheriff Meyerrose received approval to utilize commissary funds for tips/delivery fees associated with ordering and delivery of Domino’s Pizza 2x per month at the jail and also for any items that are bought and delivered from Walmart. The council approved the sheriff to purchase promotional and recruiting items for community events out of the commissary fund. Sheriff Meyerrose received approval to apply for the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute Grant for $56,000 for overtime for road deputies to patrol to reduce accidents on the road and reduce driving under the influence.
Abby Harry, Court Services received approval to proceed with completing the proposal for a $234,400 and a $120,275 grant.
Doug Westerfeld, Area Plan Director was unable to attend. Christy Smiley, Auditor stated that the topic that he wanted to cover was that the Area Plan office has had an increase in attorney fees. Geenex Solar LLC has given a check to cover additional attorney fees that the office has incurred, and she needs the council’s approval to use those funds to cover the additional fees. The council approved this request with Rick Nobbe voting no.
Rob Dehoff, Parks Department, received council approval to use up to $200,000 from the EDIT – Build Decatur County fund, with the condition that a repayment plan must be established by the end of the year. Council President Danny Peters opposed the request, citing concerns that the county has already contributed significantly through ARPA and the County TIF board and expressing reservations about using local income tax funds.
Council members briefly discussed potential impacts of SB 1 on county finances, the return on investment, and expected revenue from concessions and diamond rentals. Dehoff noted that the current funding shortfall stands at $222,000, and he is actively seeking donors and sponsorships to bridge the gap. Since payment to the contractor is not due until December, the Parks Department has time to pursue additional donations and grant opportunities.
