The camp, anticipated to begin in late June or early July, aims to provide a nurturing environment for children, with a particular focus on those residing in Grant County. The contribution was approved unanimously, recognizing the camp’s potential to positively impact the community. The camp organizers expressed their gratitude for the county’s ongoing support, emphasizing the camp’s role in assisting with significant repairs for elderly residents. Materials for these repairs will be purchased locally, boosting the local economy. The camp’s logistical considerations, such as the need for 40 to 50 ladders, were briefly mentioned.

Another item on the agenda was the update on the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), which included revisions initiated by the previous emergency management director. The revisions involved minor adjustments to the plan, clarifying specific roles for public health positions. Particular attention was given to the identification of potential family assistance centers and mass care sheltering locations, which would vary by town and circumstance. The use of schools, churches, and fire halls as shelters was noted, with a particular emphasis on those equipped with generator backups. A commissioner shared insights on the annual use of a storm shelter built in a campground, highlighting its effectiveness during severe weather warnings. The board unanimously approved the EOP updates.

The meeting addressed staffing changes within the environmental services office, focusing on the restructuring of job descriptions. The personnel committee proposed consolidating three positions into two: the assistant environmental services administrator and the environmental services director. Despite minor changes to duties, the grades for these positions remain unchanged. The board engaged in a discussion about the assistant position’s responsibilities, particularly regarding septic system inspections. Clarification was provided that inspections would occur under specific conditions, such as property transfers or building permits, rather than universally. Separate motions were made and seconded to approve the new job descriptions and the internal posting of the positions.

Jessica Peterson from Horizon Public Health presented an application for a change in ownership at Ashby Market and Meats, seeking approval to sell tobacco products. The application met all requirements outlined in the Grant County tobacco ordinance, and the board approved the issuance of a tobacco retailer license after a brief discussion. The timeline for the retailer to start selling tobacco was addressed, with Peterson indicating that it would take a few days to finalize signatures, allowing the retailer to proceed immediately.

The board also discussed procedural matters related to committee appointments, emphasizing transparency and public involvement. A standard procedure was suggested for handling upcoming vacancies, with applications to be publicly advertised three months prior to term expiration. This approach aims to ensure equal opportunities for all interested parties. The necessity for a form to gather applicants’ information and manage multiple applicants for a single position was also addressed. Although many committees have no immediate vacancies, establishing a clear process was deemed important for future appointments.

The meeting included a budget committee update, highlighting introductory meetings with department heads to foster communication and understanding of budgets. The focus was on education and ensuring that all parties involved have a clear understanding of the budgeting process. A tax rewrite initiative, ongoing for nearly a decade, was also discussed, with hopes for broader implementation next year.

Lastly, the meeting transitioned to personnel matters in a closed session, addressing an individual employee situation. A brief discussion followed about cleaning needs for the bathrooms and the state of facility maintenance. The board emphasized the importance of vigilance in maintaining the properties and addressing any emerging issues promptly.