The Crawford County Board of Commissioners convened on September 24, 2025, to address several key issues impacting the community, including legal services, housing rehabilitation, and staffing changes.
One of the primary discussions involved the approval of a contract with McDonald, Ilig, Jones, and Bridal for legal services related to county administration. The contract, which is not budgeted and capped at $8,000, raised concerns among some commissioners about the financial implications, especially as the county navigates a challenging budget landscape. The contract is set to terminate in December 2026, contingent upon solicitor review.
In addition to legal services, the board approved contracts with Michael Baker International for planning and engineering services, also concluding in December 2026. These contracts are crucial for ongoing county projects and will help ensure that necessary infrastructure improvements continue without interruption.
The meeting also highlighted the county's commitment to housing support, with the ratification of payments for completed housing rehabilitation work under the Whole Home Repair Program. This includes a payment of over $6,600 to Sturdy Boots for work on a homeowner's property, demonstrating the county's efforts to enhance living conditions for its residents.
Another significant topic was the establishment of a new full-time chief assessor trainee position, created to prepare for the upcoming retirement of the current chief assessor. This proactive measure aims to ensure a smooth transition and continued effective management of property assessments in the county.
The board also discussed the adoption of a resolution to establish a volunteer service tax credit program, which aims to incentivize community service and support local volunteers.
As the meeting concluded, commissioners acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly regarding budget constraints and staffing changes. They welcomed new staff member Monica Confer, who will serve as the commissioner's secretary, and emphasized the importance of collaboration and communication as the county moves forward.
Overall, the decisions made during this meeting reflect Crawford County's ongoing commitment to addressing community needs while navigating financial challenges. The next work session is scheduled for October 1, with the full session to follow on October 8.