The Daviess County Commissioners met Tuesday morning with Commissioner Tom McCracken attending his first official meeting. Commissioner Nathan Gabhart was elected president of the Board of Commissioners for 2017. McCracken will serve as vice-president and Commissioner Michael Taylor will be the Board secretary. Acting as the County Board of Finance, the Commissioners approved the continuation of the County’s investment policy.
The Commissioners approved a notice authorizing the redemption of the county’s bonds issued in 2006 pending an agreement with the City of Washington about the city’s part of the bond payment. The city had agreed to provide a yearly payment on the bond issue but redemption would end the city’s financial obligation. County Attorney Grant Swartzentruber is to work with Washington officials in reaching a solution. The bond redemption will save the county an estimated $500,000 in interest payments over the next five years.
Commissioners also agreed to change the intersection of County Roads 550 N and 1100 E to a 4-way stop. Upgrades to 550 N, faster traffic speeds, increased daily traffic counts, and the location of an Amish school at the intersection Were safety concerns that led to the change.
In other business the Commissioners appointed Gene Baker to fill a vacancy on the S.E. Fire District Board. The Commissioners also asked for applicants to fill an opening on the Alcoholic Beverage Commission, and County Highway Superindendent Phil Cornelius said the Highway Department has an opening for a desiel-automotive mechanic.