The Adams County Commissioners worked through a full agenda Tuesday, approving routine reports, hearing infrastructure updates, and discussing long‑term courthouse planning.
The board confirmed that its May 5 meeting will shift to May 6 due to the primary election. Commissioners also entered the animal shelter report into the record, noting the shelter currently houses three cats and five dogs. The weights and measures report for March was also accepted.
Bridge Repair Costs Increase After Hidden Damage Found
County engineer staff reported that a routine bridge joint repair expanded significantly after contractors uncovered deeper structural cracking. The project, originally expected to take four hours, has grown into a three‑day repair with costs rising from roughly $4,000 to an estimated $15,000.
Officials emphasized that the work prevented what could have become a $300,000 superstructure failure, underscoring the county’s push for more aggressive joint‑maintenance programs.
Highway Department: Buggy Plates, Road Work, and Summer Hours
Two utility permits were approved — one for a NIPSCO gas service line and another for Jay County REMC electrical service.
Highway Superintendent Brad updated commissioners on several projects, including paving and edge‑toeing along the Triple‑0 corridor. Striping is planned once scheduling is confirmed.
The county has sold about 1,800 buggy plates, with roughly 1,000 remaining before the May 15 deadline. Dust‑control applications also close that day.
Commissioners approved assisting the 4‑H grounds by hauling stone for upcoming events, with the 4‑H program covering material costs.
The board also authorized the county to move forward with its annual Purple Wave auction of surplus equipment and approved allowing the Highway Department to shift to four 10‑hour workdays beginning May 18 and running through Columbus Day. Office coverage on Fridays will continue.
Courthouse Electrical Project Paused Amid Space‑Use Discussions
Commissioners agreed to pause previously approved electrical work that would have connected the Clerk’s Office to the generator. With ongoing discussions about potentially relocating Superior Court to the courthouse’s first floor, officials said the electrical upgrades might become unnecessary depending on the final layout.
Public Transit Reports Significant Growth
Adams County Public Transit reported strong first‑quarter growth, with trips up 45%, fares up 30%, and overall ridership up 9% compared to last year.
Well‑being trips — such as visits to family, hair appointments, or social outings — have nearly doubled, driven in part by Amish ridership.
The department is seeking additional drivers, noting that a CDL is not required. Only 12 trips were denied last quarter due to capacity limits. Transit officials are applying for a replacement van and transit vehicle to expand the fleet.
Senior Center Courtyard Project Reaches Halfway Mark
The Senior Center reported that fundraising for its new ADA‑accessible courtyard has reached $47,500, about halfway to the goal. Several grants are pending, including applications to the Lilly Endowment and O’Reilly Foundation.
The “Night in Tuscany” fundraiser sold out with 160 attendees, raising $6,600.
A Senior Information Fair is scheduled for June 19 at the Merit Center gym.
Subdivision Approvals and Planning Needs
Commissioners approved the JL Sports Subdivision and two sections of the Strayer Subdivision, each meeting frontage and easement requirements.
The Planning Office raised concerns about workload and enforcement of nuisance ordinances, prompting discussion about adding a staff position.
Justice Center Study Moves Forward
Commissioners authorized Elevatus/Garmong to prepare a new option study examining whether Superior Court could be moved into the first floor of the historic courthouse, with a new building across Third Street housing the Clerk, Prosecutor, Probation, and Community Corrections.
The study will cost $25,500, contingent on finding funds within existing budget lines. Results are expected in about six weeks.
Public Comments: Innkeeper’s Tax Questions
A resident raised concerns about the county’s new Innkeeper’s Tax, questioning enforcement and whether projected revenue — estimated at $75,000 to $80,000 annually — justifies the administrative burden.
Commissioners clarified that the tax was enacted by the County Council, not the commissioners, and acknowledged challenges in collecting voluntary reporting from small lodging operators.