Commissioner Meeting Notes, Sep 6, 2023. 2:00-3:00.

2025 Bond Discussions. The current $3 million capital improvement bond is due to be paid off in Jan 2025. Last time, the amount borrowed went from 2 to 3 million with the justification being that interest rates were so low, the property tax used to fund the loan would not change.

Commissioner Sanders has the lead on this initiative. He has drafted and continues to refine the “first ever” capital improvement plan and budget. This is the “document” that should have been used to justify new debt and capital improvement funding. The lack of a plan was identified as a repeat audit finding from the State Board of Accounts – a finding that was always ignored by the county elected officials until now.

The plan identifies the need to replace air conditioning units in the jail (640K) and to build a new prosecutor’s office. Note on the prosecutor’s office – the need for replacement has been “talked about” for years but nothing was ever planned or budgeted.  The goal is that the amount to be borrowed will not require an increase in the current tax rate. Ideally, a “Rainy Day Fund” could be used to prevent the need to borrow money but we are a long way from this reality.

Update: Town of Nashville Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. The proposal is being adjusted – no details. The Indiana Department of Health has provided 20K, the Commissioners 20K (ARPA funds), and another 10K is needed. The suggestion was that the county contribute another $5,500 and Nashville would provide $5,500. Another issue was that the commissioners were asked to allow contractors onto private property. Note this will only fund a “Plan” that will likely cost several million to build. It is expected that “grants” will fund the development of the trail.

Bridge #43 – Elkinsville Rd.  The wooden planks on the bridge are secured with nails. The nails pop up and cause flat tires. This has been an ongoing issue for the past three years.  The Post Office is requiring repairs or they will no longer drive over the bridge to deliver mail.