County officials plan community project to honor veterans and restore Doughboy statue

The Owen County Commissioners meeting held on April 3, 2025, focused on several key initiatives, including community projects, departmental updates, and training needs.

The meeting began with discussions surrounding a proposed landscaping project aimed at enhancing a local veterans' memorial. Commissioners expressed enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and historical significance. Plans were made to generate funds through donations and public outreach, including flyers and social media announcements. The commissioners highlighted the need for an ordinance to formalize the project and ensure proper funding allocation, particularly for damages incurred during construction.

Commissioner Dennis shared personal connections to the memorial, noting that his father had poured the concrete around the Doughboy statue, underscoring the project's historical relevance. The group agreed to collaborate with local veterans' organizations, such as the American Legion and VFW, to foster community support and potentially organize a rededication ceremony.

Following this, the meeting shifted to updates from the building department. The department reported progress in permitting and inspections, addressing a backlog of expired permits. The need for training in floodplain management was also discussed, with plans to pursue certification and attend relevant conferences.

Tax bills were confirmed to be distributed to residents by mid-April, with the final files submitted for processing. The commissioners discussed the importance of hands-on training for staff, emphasizing that in-person instruction often yields better results than online courses.

The meeting concluded with a call for accountability regarding inventory management across departments. Commissioners stressed the urgency of completing inventory lists to ensure accurate asset tracking and compliance with upcoming audits. They expressed frustration over delays and reiterated the need for all departments to fulfill their responsibilities in this regard.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the commissioners' commitment to community projects, departmental efficiency, and the importance of training and accountability within county operations. The next steps include finalizing the landscaping project details and ensuring all departments meet inventory requirements by the September deadline.