Highland County Commissioners discussed Wednesday an upcoming online auction concerning an obsolete aircraft from the Highland County Sheriff’s Office.
Commissioners passed a resolution on Wednesday declaring that the aircraft would be sold via internet auction, beginning on Aug. 17. The auction will last 10 days, with pick-up in Hillsboro. The resolution added that there is a reserve price of $15,000.
According to commissioner Tom Horst, Highland County Sheriff Donnie Barrera said he plans to use the funds from the auction for another four-wheel drive vehicle. Horst said the sheriff is also considering the purchase of a couple of drones.
Horst added that these drones may be kept in cruisers and used to search for marijuana, as needed.
And while Horst said that drones are “a little bit iffy right now,” he added, “I think it’s a good idea.”
Commissioners also discussed several projects throughout the county, including the construction of Carl Smith/Hobart Drive. According to Horst, construction there is “way ahead of schedule.”
Also on Wednesday, commissioners discussed improvements to the Highland County Dog Pound.
According to commissioner Jeff Duncan, the county received two quotes, for $8,768 and $6,550, respectively. The higher estimate would include both the installation of stainless steel panels as well as a reworking of the kennels.
Commissioners agreed to spend the $6,550 amount for the panels. If needed, the reworking will be addressed later.
Duncan said the new panels will ensure that dogs cannot reach into neighboring kennels and “get other dogs.”
Horst also said that an anonymous donor previously provided funds for restrooms at the dog pound. He said those are nearing completion.
Commissioners also said that they are addressing issues with the Highland County Administration Building’s telephone system. Horst said the circuit board was out and that the problem will be fixed.
The Hi-Tech Center is also “getting ready for remodeling” on the outside, Horst added.
Also, Duncan said that progress is being made on the roof repairs at the Highland County Justice Center.
Commissioners also passed several resolutions on Wednesday. Among those was a contractual agreement for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) project for the fiscal year 2014. The project concerns the resurfacing of Burgess Road in Jackson Township. According to the resolution, the project specification to Cox Paving is in the amount of $37,397.95.
Also passed was a resolution authorizing the sheriff’s office to apply for and – if awarded – enter into an agreement to administer a DARE grant.
The grant is through the Office of the Attorney General for the school year beginning Sept. 1, 2015 and ending Aug. 31, 2016.
Commissioner Shane Wilkin was not present for Wednesday’s meeting.
Reach Sarah Allen at 937-393-3456, ext. 1680, or on Twitter @SarahAllenHTG.
