Jasper Board Members Discuss Ambulance Service; Work on Budget

Jasper County board members heard at this month's meeting about work on the county ambulance service.

Work is underway to insure adequate staffing, and equipment acquisitions are occurring. Public relations events are being scheduled, and cosmetic touches are being made on the building.

One person commented that steps being taken have boosted morale and are indicating to the staff that someone is listening to them.

Work is also done in an effort to collect on delinquent bills, some dating back to 2015. 

In other business, the Board considered a motion to declare Election Day a holiday, but the motion died for lack of a second. Courts will be closed on Election Day, but county offices will be open.

Board members also reviewed the solid waste program and agreed to some cost-cutting by eliminating all free dumpsters.

The Board reviewed health insurance coverage. The County has been paying $600/month toward employee coverage, but the Board voted to increase that amount to $655.50/month. 

Board members voted to add $1,200 to the animal control budget, which will go toward cell phone expenses. It was also agreed to change the current billing system for when dogs have been impounded within the villages. Members agreed on a new system, where the bills get sent to the county clerk, then the clerk will send the bills to the villages.

The Board also voted to place the tentative county budget on display for the coming fiscal year.