Wayne County commissioners plan to provide $30,000 for a HELP the Animals Inc. project.
Commissioners saw a draft memorandum of understanding between the organizations during their Aug. 20 meeting. Funds are available in the 2025 budget’s animal welfare line item.
The county contracts with HELP to accept animals from the county’s animal control officer. HELP’s project includes concrete, fencing and electrical work for outdoor kennels.
HELP applied for a Wayne County Foundation grant for the project’s entire cost, but the request was not funded. The foundation will provide $17,000 to the project.
Building inspections
Commissioners, during their morning meeting and later Wayne County Council during the Aug. 20 workshop, approved an interlocal agreement with Greens Fork.
Following the retirement of Greens Fork’s building inspector, the county has agreed to provide building inspections for the town. The county will keep permit fees.
Steve Higinbotham, the county administrator, said Greens Fork issues about 10 permits each year, so the town’s work will not burden county staff.
Playground interlocals
The commissioners also approved five interlocal agreements with towns concerning wireless internet service accessible at playgrounds.
Through the Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program, the county assisted Cambridge City, Dublin, East Germantown, Economy and Milton with playground projects. The county also pledged American Rescue Plan Act dollars to provide wireless access at the playgrounds.
At $3,000 per playground, the county will pay $15,000 for equipment and installation, then the towns will pay monthly fees.
Commissioner Jeff Plasterer said he will present the interlocal agreement to each town’s council.
Commissioner actions
- Commissioners approved $6,250 for construction of a walkway from the north side of the Wayne County Administration Building to East Main Street. The current brick path will be removed.
- Commissioners approved a $1,200 claim from Spartan for appraisals of two properties that will be auctioned during a deed sale.
- Commissioners approved a bid of $1,226 for paper from Millcraft.
Council action
Council approved the health department posting a part-time position for a medical provider. The total cost is $94,967 from the 340b drug pricing program. The provider will see patients and generate revenue for the department.
A version of this article appeared in the August 27 2025 print edition of the Western Wayne News.