01/03/11 During the Commissioner’s meeting last Friday they were asked to look ahead to 2011. Commissioner President Kevin Overmyer spoke of the major projects that are underway for this new year. Pioneer Drive and Road will be completed along with the bridge replacement on 13th Road and the Pierce Street Bridge. He also talked about the 7th Road project indicating that the project is moving forward and they are continuing to secure additional funding for the project.
Overmyer expressed his concern on the proposed legislation in the upcoming General Assembly calling for the elimination of township trustees. The legislation proposes to shift the trustees’ duties to the county, and it is still not known if this change will result in a cost savings to local government. He also is concerned about jobs and the local economy.
Mr. Overmyer explained that officials continue to pursue funding for the Metronet project. He spoke about the importance to the county’s economic future.
Commissioner Jack Roose talked about how county government has been frugal, thus keeping Marshall County in good financial condition. He too has concerns including the effects of the tax caps which are still largely unknown. Roose said officials must continue to anticipate reduced revenues.
Commissioner Tom Chamberlin said, “Marshall County continues to move forward due to the vision of elected officials and department heads, and the future is bright for Marshall County which is not the case in all counties.” He said the council, commissioners and department heads will have to make difficult financial decision. Looking to the future Chamberlin said he anticipates growth in the Pioneer Road area which will bring additional revenues and serviced to that area.
County Auditor Penny Lukenbill said that the county is in good financial condition. She attributed the condition in large part to the efforts of elected officials and department heads who worked within their budgets in 2010.
The meeting closed with the Commissioners thanking the county employees for their dedication, expressing hope that the County could include raises in the 2012 budget.
