HOWARD COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING FEBRUARY 17, 2003

 

 

The Howard County Board of Commissioners met in Regular Session on Monday, February 17, 2003 at 8:30 a.m. in Hearing Room No. 338 of the Howard County Administration Center.  Those in attendance included President Bradley J. Bagwell, Vice President John B. Harbaugh, and Member Paul J. Raver.  County Attorney Larry Murrell was out of town and Assistant County Attorney Brian Oaks attended on his behalf.  Also present were Personnel Administrator Wanda McKillip and Auditor Martha Lake.

 

The meeting was called to order by Sheriff Marshall Talbert and conducted by President Bradley Bagwell.

 

The minutes from the last regular meeting held on February 3, 2003 were considered.  Mr. Raver made a motion to approve the minutes with the following correction.  Seconded by Mr. Harbaugh, the motion carried:

 

On page 2, “In the Matter of Plan Commission Issues”, Item 1. d., change the address to 2941 North 300 East.

 

 

IN THE MATTER OF HIGHWAY ISSUES:

 

Mr. Ted Cain, Howard County Highway Engineer/Superintendent presented the following issues for Commissioner information and approval:

 

                1.     The County Highway Department has been working around the clock to clear roads of ice and snow.  In view of the fact that many counties are experiencing overtime pay issues, Mr. Cain was pleased to report that the Howard County Highway Department does not have any similar problems.  During the past two years Mr. Cain has set aside money for this type of need.

 

                2.     Kudos to the Howard County Highway Department:

 

                        a.     Western School Corporation sent a letter thanking the Commissioners for the Howard County Highway Department’s quick response to calls throughout the year, such as taking care of bad road conditions and removing dead animals.

 

                        b.     This morning on local FM Radio Station Z92.5, Eastern School Corporation complemented Mr. Cain and his employees for their great work in clearing the roads.

 

                        c.     Mr. Bagwell complemented the diligence of the Highway Department for working on snow removal at 3:00 a.m.

 

APPROVAL TO INSTALL DRAIN TILE IN COUNTY RIGHT-OF-WAY:

 

Dan Dean, 2150 West 500 South, requested approval to place the drain from his geothermal heating/air conditioning unit in the right-of-way of 500 South.  Mr. Dean built a home on property he purchased two years ago.  The septic system did not need a perimeter drain when the property was platted into a building lot; therefore an off-site drainage easement was not required. 

 

Mr. Dean was not successful in getting a response from the adjoining property owner to the east regarding an off-site easement agreement.  He proposes to run a drain, 16-foot, on the north side, from the centerline of 500 South, in order to connect to a mutual drain that crosses the road about 120 feet west of the intersection with 200 West (Dixon Road).

 

The geothermal unit displaces approximately 25 gallons of water per hour.  Water from the unit pools next to the house especially when the ground is frozen. 

 

Mr. Cain said property owners are encouraged to do everything possible to keep tile out of the county right-of-way.  A homeowner is responsible for maintaining the life of a drain in the right-of-way; and work on County property is likely to disturb or damage the drain.  Mr. Cain would not have a problem with the request as long as Mr. Dean exhausts all means of obtaining an off-site drainage easement. 

 

New County Ordinance No. BCC-2003-5, Establishing Procedures for Digging or Trenching in County Property addresses issues such as this.  County Surveyor Beryl Grimme invited Mr. Dean to meet with him in the Surveyor’s Office to discuss the matter.  It was the consensus of the Commissioners that Mr. Dean should meet with Mr. Grimme to try to resolve this issue and no action was taken at this time.

 

IN THE MATTER OF SHERIFF DEPARTMENT ISSUES:

 

Sheriff Marshall Talbert presented the following issues for Commissioner information and approval:

 

                1.     The Jail Inspection Report dated January 24, 2003 was presented for Commissioner information. In reference to the last page of the report, Simplex Grinnell inspected the sensitivity of all smoke detectors and fire alarm systems in the building last week.

 

                2.     Two (2) Ford Taurus vehicles were purchased from Brad Howell Ford for a total of approximately $20,000.00.  (See page 2, February 3, 2003 minutes, “In the Matter of Sheriff’s Department Issues - Vehicle Acquisition Request”, for related discussion)

 

3.     Request for obtaining quotes on new vehicles:  Sheriff Talbert requested permission to seek quotes for one (1) prisoner transport van and two (2) K-9 trucks.  In reference to the first request, a cargo van is less expensive than a window van with seats in it.  A company in Warsaw manufactures aluminum inserts for cargo vans that would allow prisoners to be separated by gender and/or juvenile offenders. In reference to the second request, the Sheriff’s Department has only one K-9 truck, a 1996 Dodge Dakota that has high mileage and poor appearance.  The second K-9 is currently being transported in a Ford Crown Victoria automobile.  

 

It would cost between $65,000.00 and $70,000.00 to purchase the three vehicles.  Auditor Martha Lake attended the State Legislators’ third House Session on February 15th.  There continues to be much uncertainty regarding State Legislation and County Budgets. We are currently operating on our January 1st cash balance plus any miscellaneous revenue collected.  If Reassessment is delayed and/or if for some reason counties do not receive property tax replacement credit and homestead credit as anticipated, there will be a major revenue shortage to fund the 2003 already approved budgets.  Purchases need to be carefully considered in order to avoid borrowing money in the near future.  Currently, the City is putting a hold on their capital expenditures. 

 

Mr. Bagwell commented that the County still needs to “function as a government” and do the things that need to be done.  Mr. Raver made a motion to authorize Sheriff Talbert to proceed to obtain quotes for the three vehicles as presented.  Mr. Harbaugh seconded the motion and it carried. 

 

IN THE MATTER OF PLAN COMMISSION ISSUES AND PROPERTIES FOR APPROVAL:

 

Plan Commission Director, Glen Boise, presented the following issues for information and approval:

 

                1.     Training Newsletters provided by the Indiana Land Resources Council were handed out to the Commissioners.  Seminars are scheduled to be held on March 6th and March 12th 2003.

 

                2.     Case 55-CP-02 – two (2) lots in King Subdivision located at 7533 East 50 North was approved on a motion made by Mr. Harbaugh.  Mr. Raver seconded the motion and it carried.

 

                3.     Flood Mitigation Status: 

 

                        a.     Work continues on the community rating system application.  One of the activities is to send out annual newsletters to property owners in the flood plain.  Mr. Boise requested approximately $100.00 in postage to mail approximately 240 letters. 

 

Mr. Harbaugh made a motion to approve payment of $100.00 for mailing the newsletters as presented.  Mr. Raver seconded the motion, which carried.

 

                        b.     February 14th was the deadline to receive proposals to design flood-proofing plans for the properties.  No proposals were submitted.  However, a letter was sent from Mr. James Hamilton of Butler, Fairman & Seufert, detailing why they did not submit.  Mr. Boise proposes to re-write the Request for Proposals.

 

                        c.     All Hazard Mitigation Plan:  Mr. Boise attended a seminar on Wednesday, February 12th, sponsored by Federal (F.E.M.A.) and State Emergency Management (S.E.M.A.) Agencies.  The topic of discussion was about developing an all hazard mitigation plan.  In the year-2000 Congress passed a law that all other hazards should be included in a more formal, extensive mitigation plan.  All of Howard County including the three incorporated communities will be included in the plan.  F.E.M.A. is going to help with the cost by providing a grant covering 75% of the costs, up to $40,000.00.  Mr. Boise said he will keep the Commissioners advised on the status of this issue.

               

IN THE MATTER OF MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT ISSUES:

 

Maintenance Superintendent Thomas Harrison presented the following issues for Commissioner information and approval:

 

                1.     Administration Center Heating Problem: 

 

                        a.     First Floor and Basement:  During the cold weather this winter season, temperature on the first floor and basement area would not rise any higher than 65 to 68 degrees.  Apparently there are no heaters in the air space above the ceilings of both floors.  Approximately 1-1/2 years ago, Hochstedler Energy Service was consulted about air sealing the basement.  The contractors were concerned that a vacuum would be created which would cause ceiling tiles to lift up and blow out of the ceiling when the outside doors are opened.  The air space between the ceiling tiles and above floor maintains the same temperature as outside the building.  Dave Smith, Technician for Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. recently inspected the situation and requested an appointment with the Commissioners to discuss resolving this issue. 

 

                                Fourth Floor:  Last year, some heaters were discovered in the ceiling above the computer room that were set too hot.  Mr. Raver did not understand why there are heaters above the ceiling on the fourth floor and no heaters for the first floor and basement air space. 

 

Mr. Harrison has ordered new, larger vents to improve the flow of heat.  However, Dave Smith, Technician of Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. commented that the vents would not resolve the problem of heating the air space between the floors.  The boilers in the building are about 25 years old.  Approximately one month ago, a boiler inspection report stated it was time to start considering replacing the boilers. 

                               

By consensus, the Commissioners decided to meet with Dave Smith at the close of the next meeting on Monday, March 3rd at approximately 11:30 a.m. to discuss the heating issues.

 

                        b.     Elevators:  The elevator room is too cold which causes mechanical problems with the elevators.  The elevator fluid does not get warm enough to adjust to the height of the floors.

       

IN THE MATTER OF PERSONNEL ADMINISTRATOR ISSUES:

 

Personnel Director Wanda McKillip presented the following issues for Commissioner information and approval:

 

                1.     The COBRA Log, effective 2/01/03, was presented for Commissioner review.  There are only seven individuals being maintained on COBRA.  The insurance representative from Miles and Finch Agency is purchasing some software in order to stay in compliance with COBRA regulations.

 

                2.     HIPAA Seminar:  Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield together with Baker & Daniels will conduct free seminars on complying with the new laws established by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) on Wednesday, February 26, 2003.  Mrs. McKillip requested approval to go to the afternoon seminar from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. together with her Administrative Assistant, Vickie Hinkle. 

 

Mr. Harbaugh made a motion to authorize Mrs. McKillip and Mrs. Hinkle to attend the HIPAA Seminar on Wednesday, February 26, 2003 at the time requested.  Mr. Raver seconded the motion, which carried.

 

                3.     The 2003 Family Medical Leave Log was confirmed on a motion made by Mr. Raver.  Mr. Harbaugh seconded the motion and it carried.

 

                4.     The PAC Recommendations for the Health Department:  The Health Department requested salary increases for the nursing staff as follows:

 

                                                                Administrator                               $39,847.00 to $41,847.00

                                                                Nursing Coordinator                   $35,613.00 to $37,613.00

                                                                (2) Nurses                                      $33,453.00 to $35,453.00

 

After reviewing the requests, the PAC recommends not increasing the salaries listed above due to budget restraints and the uncertainty of county finances. The Committee also recommends that requests for increases be submitted with the 2004 Budget.

 

Mr. Harbaugh made a motion to recommend to the County Council, that no changes should be made to the salaries at the Health Department at this time.  Mr. Raver seconded the motion and it carried.

 

                5.     Laser Vision Offer:  Though Anthem’s VSP coverage does not pay for any part of the procedure, TLC Laser Eye Centers offers a “No payment for 12 Months” coupon to anyone having Anthem’s VSP coverage.  Mrs. McKillip asked permission to distribute the coupons with employee paychecks.  

 

Since the Commissioners are not familiar with other vision centers’ discount offers, they were concerned about showing partiality toward a single vision center.  Mr. Bagwell suggested researching all sources of discounts that Anthem has available and put a list in the county newsletter for employee information.  Mr. Harbaugh made a motion to not include the coupon advertising TLC Laser Eye Centers in employee paychecks.  Mr. Raver seconded the motion and it carried.

 

6.        The United Way Gold Award presented to Howard County for employee contributions in 2002 will be displayed on the bulletin board located in the hallway near the Personnel Office.

 

IN THE MATTER OF INFORMATION SYSTEMS MANAGER ISSUES:

 

Mr. Terry Tribby, Information Systems Manager, presented the following issues for Commissioner information:

 

                1.     DOXPOP UPDATE (Court Record Internet Publishing):  Several people attended the meetings held on February 11th to become familiar with the new website and many have already registered to use the website.  Mr. Tribby commented that the service is a benefit to County government and the business community.

 

Following a thirty (30) day trial, the program will be evaluated to determine whether the dial-up access can finally be eliminated.  Mr. Tribby will return to the Commissioners regarding this issue after the trial period.

 

                2.     Courthouse Renovation Project:  (Also see page 6, “In the Matter of Courthouse Renovations” and “Additional Comment regarding Courthouse Renovations” for related discussion.) 

 

                        a.     The Probation Office completed their move last week and the computers are up and running.

 

                        b.     The are some issues with the heating and cooling in the new server room.  The temperature runs excessively high for computer equipment.  Mr. Raver advised that Mr. Bassett has been made aware of this issue and will have some information to share soon. 

 

                3.     E-911 Dispatch Center:  The server is running with only 5% available disc space.  To eliminate any potential problems, Mr. Tribby ordered a new server.  The new server has about four times the capacity and speed of the one being currently used and can accommodate add-on applications.   

 

IN THE MATTER OF DARROUGH CHAPEL SEWER INVESTIGATION OPTIONS:

 

(See page 6, December 16, 2002 minutes, “In the Matter of Darrough Chapel Sewer Situation” for related discussion)

Mr. Lake was advised in December to put together a cost analysis to test the sewer systems in Darrough Chapel in order to prove the need of/to the residents. 

 

Today, Executive Director Kris Conyers and Greg Lake, Environmental Coordinator for the Howard County Department of Health, presented the following list of options for Commissioner information and approval:

 

1.         Location of Septic Systems by a Licensed Installer
           
Cost estimate:  $500 to $1000 per lot
            Completion time:  2 to 6 Months

 

2.             Pass of Fail Documentation by a University’s Study   

Cost estimate:  $400 to $1000 per lot
Completion time:  6 to 12 Months

 

3.         Health Department Investigation

Cost estimate:  $400 to $800 per lot
Completion time:  12 to 18 months, due to staff availability,

this investigation could not start for 5 to 6 years

 

Mr. Lake commented that he was in favor of the first proposal listed above.  Some of the systems in the Darrough Chapel area have been located and been determined to be discharging systems.  If there are areas pooling with waste on top of the ground this spring, the Health Department will begin issuing pump and haul orders.

 

The study could cost up to $1,000.00 per home to prove that septic systems are failing in the Darrough Chapel area.  Mr. Bagwell felt this money would be better used to resolve the problem rather then use it to convince the property owners they have a septic problem.  Mr. Bagwell suggested talking with Grant Administrator Tina Mendenhall Henderson to see if grant money can be found for the study.  Mr. Bagwell suggested using EDIT money in order to get the project going. 

 

Approximately 34 homes in Darrough Chapel have septic permits.  However, Mr. Lake estimated about 83% of the properties would not be able to replace their septic systems in the future. 

 

There was discussion about holding another meeting with the residents when the Commissioners learn more information about the three proposals to conduct the study.  Mr. Raver will get together with Greg Lake, Chris Conyers, Tina Mendenhall Henderson and the Chairman of the Darrough Chapel Steering Committee to further review the situation.    

 

Also presented was a list of the communities in the County awaiting attention to similar problems.

 

IN THE MATTER OF E-911 DISPATCH ISSUES:

 

(See page 7, January 21, 2003 minutes, “In the Matter of E-911 Dispatch Issues” for related discussion).

 

Communications Director Tony Ramsey requested approval for the specifications for mapping the E-911 portion (Phase 2 Wireless) of the GIS Information System.  Mr. Raver made a motion to approve the specifications and proceed with Requests for Proposals on the E-911 mapping software portion of the GIS Information System program subject to approval of the County Attorney.  Mr. Harbaugh seconded the motion, which carried.

 

IN THE MATTER OF MAPPING DEPARTMENT ISSUES:

(See page 6, February 3, 2003 minutes, “In the Matter of Mapping Department Issues”, Item 2, for related discussion) 

 

Jamie Shepherd, Mapping/Property Records & Drafts person for the Howard County Auditor’s Office presented the following issues for Commissioner information and approval:

 

At the last meeting, the Commissioners accepted the proposal from Williams Aerial & Mapping, Inc. to perform the aerial photography, scanning, triangulation, and planimetrics in the amount of $70,630.00 subject to review and approval of the contract by County Attorney Larry Murrell.  Attorney Murrell, together with Jamie Shepherd, incorporated a few changes and forwarded the proposal to Williams Aerial & Mapping, Inc.  Williams have signed the agreement with the incorporated changes.  Mr. Raver made a motion to accept the proposal for digital photography with Williams Aerial & Mapping, Inc. and authorize the President to sign on behalf of the Board.  Mr. Harbaugh seconded the motion and it carried.

 

The proposal does not include painting the 110 ground control points that are needed to perform the photography.  Mrs. Shepherd said a decision must be made as to who will handle the ground control points.  Dan Minor from the County Surveyor’s Office has knowledge and experience regarding how to use the necessary equipment.  Schneider Engineering has already offered to do the work for a price.  The work will continue to get the ground work plans in order at a cost effective price.   

 

IN THE MATTER OF A REQUEST TO VACATE EASEMENT IN BROOKSHIRE SUBDIVISION:

 

Attorney J. Conrad Maugans presented a petition to vacate a utility and drainage easement located on a portion of real estate owned by Kevin and DeAnna Holloway. 

 

Mr. Harbaugh made a motion to set a public hearing for the petition on March 17th, 2003 at 10:00 a.m.  Mr. Raver seconded the motion, which carried.

 

IN THE MATTER OF KOKOMO SPEEDWAY NOISE:

 

Mr. Rob Betts, 376 Ariel Drive in Abbey Place Subdivision, lives across the field from the Kokomo Speedway.  He requested a curfew imposed on Sunday night racing so his family can get the sleep they need before his children go to school on Monday mornings.

 

The Commissioners took this issue under advisement in order to seek a recommendation from the County Attorney.

 

IN THE MATTER OF THE ANNUAL NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER:

 

Tanya L. Cummings, Representative for the National Day of Prayer, advised the celebration is scheduled to take place from 12:00 noon until 1:00 p.m., on Thursday, May 1st, 2003, on Main Street in front of the Courthouse.  In the case of inclement weather she requested approval to meet inside the Courthouse.

 

Maintenance Superintendent Tom Harrison stated that candles would not be permitted inside the Courthouse. 

 

Mr. Harbaugh made a motion to approve the use of the Courthouse on Thursday, May 1st, 2003 in case of inclement weather from 12:00 noon until 1:00 p.m.  Mr. Raver seconded the motion and it carried.

 

IN THE MATTER OF ISSUES IN INDIAN HEIGHTS SUBDIVISION:

 

Mr. John Roberts, Indian Heights resident, and member of the Indian Heights Community Association appeared at the last meeting requesting Commissioners’ support to install street lights on every street corner.  (See page 7, February 3, 2003 minutes, “In the Matter of Street Lights in Indian Heights Subdivision” for related discussion)  Since that time, Mr. Roberts has spoken with State Representative Ron Herrell regarding passing a Barrett Tax law to support street lighting in county areas.  Mr. Herrell said the Barrett Law cannot be changed until the next session unless it could be attached to another bill as a rider.  Mr. Herrell referred Mr. Roberts’ questions back to the County Attorney.

 

Mr. Roberts corrected the population statistics and number of rental homes that he reported at the last meeting.  According to the 2000 Census, the population in Indian Heights is 3,000. There are approximately 1,245 homes – 81% owned by residents, 19% are rentals.

 

Mr. Roberts said many of the residents’ lives have been disrupted by excessive noise from car stereos and loud motorcycles.  The noise shakes windows and disturbs the peace and quiet of the neighborhood.  The residents have no legal solution to this issue because there is no noise control ordinance in the county. 

 

Next, Mr. Roberts justified the reason why a nuisance ordinance is necessary in Indian Heights Subdivision.   Most of the residents are responsible in maintaining their properties, but a few others litter their property with inoperable vehicles, broken appliances, unsightly debris, etc. Some of these properties are hazardous and they are also detrimental to property values. 

 

Mr. Roberts provided copies of City Noise Control Ordinance No. 6187 (as amended) and a portion of the City Nuisance Ordinance for Commissioner information.  Mr. Roberts asked the Commissioners to consider passing noise control and nuisance ordinances similar to the ordinances in the City of Kokomo.

 

Following Mr. Roberts’ dissertation, he introduced the following citizens is support of these requests:  Mrs. Marie Roberts, Indian Heights Community Association Secretary Rick Horner, Mr. Jeffrey Dahl, and Indian Heights Community Association Member Dave Ford.

 

No action was taken on these issues at this time.  The Commissioners deferred these issues to the County Attorney for review.

 

IN THE MATTER OF COURTHOUSE RENOVATIONS:

 

Mr. William Bassett of William Bassett and Associates presented the following issues for Commissioner information:

 

·          Work continues in the basement level of the building.  The Probation Office moved into their area at the south end.

 

·          Construction Change Directive No. 8:  Last week Mr. Bassett consulted with the Voter Registration Department Heads regarding design revisions that included the addition of a dutch door and electrical outlets.  Some ceramic floor covering will be added to a corridor and lounge room on the first floor of the building, which was not in the original plans.

 

Mr. Raver made a motion to approve Construction Change Directive No. 8 and authorize the President to sign on behalf of the Commissioners.  Mr. Harbaugh seconded the motion, which carried.

 

·          The specifications and advertisement were prepared for the Notice of Bids for Office Furnishings.  The anticipated costs will exceed $75,000.00. 

 

Mr. Raver made a motion to accept the bids by 9:00 a.m. on Monday, March 17, 2003 and to award a contract at a Special Meeting scheduled on at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, March 24th, 2003.  Mr. Harbaugh seconded the motion and it carried.

 

IN THE MATTER OF PERFORMANCE BONDS FOR WESTON PLACE SUBDIVISION:

 

Mr. William Bassett presented performance bonds for the streets and storm drainage in Weston Place Subdivision, Section 1 and 2.  The subdivision is located on Zartman Road, between Berkley Road and Dixon Road and will be annexed.  The City is being provided with bonds for the sanitary sewer.

 

Mr. Harbaugh made a motion to accept the performance bonds for Weston Place Subdivision, Section 1 and 2 as presented.  Mr. Raver seconded the motion and it carried.

                                                                *              *              *              *              *

Additional Comment regarding Courthouse Renovations:  (See page 5, February 3, 2003 minutes, “In the Matter of Courthouse Renovations” for related discussion) Mr. Bassett advised he is working with Maintenance Superintendent Tom Harrison regarding the leakage problem on the southeast side of the building.  A sewer contractor inserted a video camera to identify breaks in the perimeter drain system.  Mr. Bassett plans to view the videotape before making any recommendations to resolve the subsurface drainage problem. 

 

IN THE MATTER OF POOR RELIEF APPEALS FOR CENTER TOWNSHIP:

 

A Poor Relief Hearing was conducted on February 14, 2003 for Center Township on behalf of Robin L. Brown.  Commissioner Raver, Acting Poor Relief Hearing Officer, made a recommendation to uphold the written denial for housing assistance made by the Center Township Trustee on February 7, 2003.  Mr. Raver made a motion to uphold the denial of the Center Township Trustee based upon the finding that the Township Trustee followed the Eligibility Standards and Guidelines for Poor Relief applicable to the case.  Mr. Harbaugh seconded the motion and it carried.

 

IN THE MATTER OF CITY OF FIRSTS AUTOMOTIVE HERITAGE MUSEUM/CIVIC CENTER:

 

Councilman Dwight Singer was pleased to report that Civic Center is doing well under the new general manager and board members.  Mr. Singer made the following request on behalf of the City of Firsts Automotive Heritage Museum (CFAHM) Board of Directors:

 

Each year the Commissioners appropriate $65,000.00 out of the EDIT Fund to be used for capital improvement projects for the CFAHM.  The money was used advantageously to keep the Civic Center up and running.  An additional $107,000.00 was spent from CFAHM operating funds for improvements to the facility such as a parking lot expansion, new boiler, and electrical work.  The CFAHM Board requests the Commissioners to lift the restriction that the annual $65,000.00 appropriation must be used for capital improvements and allow the money to be used as necessary with no strings attached.  In essence, the annual appropriation would go toward reimbursing a portion of the operating funds that was used to pay for capital improvements.

 

Mr. Raver made a motion to authorize the annual $65,000.00 appropriation to be used to reimburse the CFAHM for operating expenses that were expended in 2002 for capital improvements.  Mr. Harbaugh seconded the motion and it carried.

 

IN THE MATTER OF CLAIMS AND REPORTS:

 

Howard County Auditor Martha Lake presented the following reports for Commissioner information and approval:

 

1.        Operating claims payable on February 17, 2003 in the amount of $99,926.77 were approved on a motion made by Mr. Harbaugh, seconded by Mr. Raver, and carried.

 

2.        Commissioners’ Salary Claims for hourly, salary, and overtime payable for February 21st and February 28th, 2002 were approved on a motion made by Mr. Raver.  Mr. Harbaugh seconded the motion, which carried.

 

3.        The Howard County Treasurer’s Report for the month of December 2002 was accepted on a motion made by Mr. Harbaugh, seconded by Mr. Raver, and carried.

 

4.        Mr. Raver made a motion to ratify the signing of the grant agreement for the Criminal Justice Enforcement Assistance Program.  Mr. Harbaugh seconded the motion, which carried.

 

5.        (See page 7, January 21, 2003 minutes, “In the Matter of Mapping Department Issues”, Item 1.b, for related discussion)  Mr. Harbaugh made a motion to approve the Authorization to Proceed with the annual Schneider Corporation Mapping Service contract and authorize the President to sign on behalf of the Commissioners.  Mr. Raver seconded the motion, and it carried.  This authorization establishes the requirement that Commissioner approval be given in regard to all upcoming phases of the mapping project as associated with Schneider Corp.

 

6.        Terrorism Risk Insurance:  In November last year, President Bush signed into law the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002.  Selective Insurance Group, Inc. sent a letter stating that acts of terrorism is already included in the current policy at no additional premium charge.  However, the renewal policies may contain an additional premium charge for this coverage.

 

7.        The requests out of the Cumulative Capital Development Fund and Economical Development Income Tax Fund were approved and forwarded to the Howard County Council to be heard on February 25th, 2003 on a motion made by Mr. Harbaugh.  Mr. Raver seconded the motion, which carried.

 

8.        The following requests will be presented at the March 3rd 2003 Commissioners’ meeting out of the E-911 Enhanced Service Fund:

 

                                                            Mapping Project (Phase 2 Wireless)         $125,000.00

                                                            New Server                                                         $5,200.00

                                                            KPD CAD Computers (4)                                 $5,000.00

                                                            Total                                                                $135,200.00

 

IN THE MATTER OF ATTORNEY ISSUES:

 

There were no issues presented for discussion at this time.

 

IN THE MATTER OF COMMISSIONERS ISSUES:

 

1.        A letter was received from a realtor advising the Commissioners that the YWCA building is available for sale.

 

2.        Kim Krieg’s four-year term as Administrator of Howard Haven expires on March 1, 2003.  In anticipation of planning the budget for 2004, the issue of whether to continue the Howard Haven County Home facility has been a recent topic of discussion.  The Commissioners decided to postpone any action until the March 3rd 2003 meeting.

 

3.        Last week Mr. Bagwell attended an Emergency Preparedness Meeting.  The Committee requested that the emergency information signs for the Administration Center need to be in place by March 15th, 2003.

 

There being no further business before the Board at this time, Mr. Raver made a motion to adjourn.  Mr. Harbaugh seconded the motion and it carried.  The meeting closed at 11:10 a.m.

 

 

                                                                                                     THE HOWARD COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

 

 

                                                                                                                ___________________________________________

                                                                                                                BRADLEY J. BAGWELL, PRESIDENT

 

 

                                                                                                                ___________________________________________

                                                                                                                JOHN B. HARBAUGH, VICE-PRESIDENT

 

 

                                                                                                                ___________________________________________

                                                                                                                PAUL J. RAVER, MEMBER

 

ATTEST:

 

 

__________________________________

MARTHA J. LAKE, AUDITOR

Commissioner Minutes, February 17, 2003