Adams County commissioners worked through a series of reports and infrastructure updates Tuesday, including routine approvals and ongoing project discussions affecting county roads and bridges.
The board accepted the monthly Weights and Measures report after noting two rejected devices that will receive follow‑up inspection. Commissioners also approved $572,872.89 in accounts payable claims. Officials said higher‑than‑usual expenses are expected through the summer as bridge and highway work continues. A State Board of Accounts charge appeared again, and the auditor’s office explained that the county pays for all audits conducted within the county before receiving reimbursement from the individual units.
Infrastructure updates dominated the second half of the meeting. Work continues on Bridge 96, with state contract processing underway. Bridge 93 remains in the design phase as the county seeks clarification on a gas line location after discovering a discrepancy between 811 markings and the actual line. Bridge 27 has cleared state review and is expected to appear in the July 8 bid letting.
The county will also participate in an upcoming St. Marys Watershed Management Plan meeting.
Highway officials reported May revenue of $336,669.37 for MVH and $50,615.82 for Local Road and Street. Revenue reductions are expected later due to statewide gas tax changes. Crews are mowing, patching, preparing dust control, and getting ready for chip‑seal work. Commissioners thanked local farmers who voluntarily mow roadside areas, noting it helps crews cover more ground.
What MVH Revenue Is
MVH revenue is money the county receives from the State of Indiana, generated primarily through:
- Gasoline taxes
- Diesel taxes
- Vehicle registration fees
- BMV fees tied to road use
The state pools these revenues and distributes them to counties and cities based on a formula that includes road miles, population, and other statutory factors.
What MVH Can Be Used For
Counties can use MVH funds for:
- Road maintenance
- Patching and paving
- Bridge work
- Equipment and materials
- Highway department operations
It cannot be used for unrelated county expenses.