Roads back to townships?
County thinks it’s worth at least naming a committee
Staff writer
A Liberty Township trustee is recommending that a committee investigate how townships in other counties help maintain roads.
“Let me be clear,” Linda Peters told commissioners Monday. “The purpose of this committee is not to find fault or place blame for things done in the past,” Peters said.
But she said the thought townships should take back responsibility for roads.
“This committee could be a valuable fact-finding tool in determining if there is another system for the county that could assist with ongoing concerns and resolutions regarding our roads,” Peters said. “I believe it should include numerous townships and be able to gather facts to bring back to the commissioners … for further discussion.”
She said the committee would learn how township road systems are set up, and how taxes are levied.
“I have several volunteers from different townships that have agreed they would like to be on the committee,” she said.
Road and bridge superintendent Jesse Hamm said he thought he should be involved in some way.
“I do want to say we are spread thin,” Hamm said. “We are making progress as we can.”
Commissioners liked the idea.
“I think it’s an excellent idea,” commissioner Kent Becker said.
Commissioner Randy Dallke asked Peters to contact other townships and see if they are interested in being part of the committee.
In other matters, commissioners:
- Heard that the Straub company has signed a letter releasing $25,000 held in escrow after the county’s attempt to buy the former Marion dealership building fell through.
- Heard that a sheriff’s department car involved in an accident with a deer was sold for $5,100 on an online auction.
- Decided to consider on Friday Susan Robson’s request that her appointment as county counselor be extended through the rest of the calendar year. Robson is paid $1,800 a month.
- Heard a $65,000 budget request from Harvey/Marion County Community Development Disability Organization.