The White County Board met on Tuesday night for their regular March meeting, and following the Pledge of Allegiance, held a moment of silence for the victims of the tornado that touched down in Crossville February 28th.
Ambulance Director Adam Allen reported that for the first time since assuming the role, his department has recorded a profit. 11 White County EMT’s responded to the Crossville tornado, and made two transports that night, including one to the White County morgue. Allen also reported that Sears has donated a chainsaw to the department, and that since moving to the Deaconness system, has upgraded from moderate to advanced life support. The department has also increased fees to be more in line with other area agencies.
EMA Director Jim Totten reported to the Board about his activities and experiences in the moments and days following the tornado. Totten was one of the first on the scene at Bula’s Corner, and directed traffic until the highway could be cleared of debris. He spent the next few days touring the damage areas, including escorting National Weather Service personnel and helping coordinate American Red Cross response. Totten and Allen both commended White County Sheriff Deputy Byrd Huber for coordinating the various responding agencies immediately in the aftermath of the damage.
The Board approved an ordinance making all County elected officials 1000 hour employees in compliance with a new IMRF decree requiring a resolution every two years.
Resolutions accepting Motor Fuel Tax bid prices for both the County and the townships were accepted unanimously.
Andrea Hayes was unanimously approved for a two year term on the Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission Board, replacing David Campbell, who is stepping down after 21 years of service. Board Chairman David Dosher commended Campbell for his service.
The Board approved the purchase of a new pickup, shell, and cot by Coroner Chris Marsh, after it was revealed that Warren County had approached him with an offer of $21,000 for the current coroner truck.
Security upgrades at the States’ Attorney’s office are almost complete. The project went slightly over budget estimates, but States’ Attorney Denton Aud commended Sheriff Doug Maier and Randy Cobb for the work done and to the jail trustees who did the bulk of the construction. Aud said that the improvements greatly increase his staff’s security.
Dosher took a moment to thank all County employees and elected officials who responded to the tornado. Eight different departments played a role in the aftermath, and Dosher reflected that things went as smoothly as possible, and lessons were learned that will assist the County in dealing with future events.
The meeting adjourned at 7:36 pm and the White County Board will meet again on Tuesday, April 11 at 7 pm.
