Franklin County to seal new time capsule; commissioners approve curated list and set dedication details

Franklin County commissioners approved a committee-curated list of items to place in a new time capsule and discussed logistics for a public dedication.

A committee member told the commission, "As the five of you know, as part of the time capsule removal, we're also gonna place a new time capsule," and said the list had been curated from community suggestions gathered via Joanna's social media solicitation. Commissioners and committee members debated what to include: several raised concerns about sealing electronic devices with batteries for a 100-year capsule and suggested alternatives such as removing batteries, including brochures or pictures, or using flash drives as a safer digital option.

The commission discussed allowing each county department a representative item (some suggested photographs rather than objects) and considered including a county budget brochure as a flat, durable item. A sheriff's office challenge coin was identified as an item requested by law enforcement; commissioners discussed ensuring fair representation for departments.

Organizers outlined a proposed program for the dedication evening: an opening by Sabrina, historical reflections by Diana Starsnick Dean (historical society director), the opening of the old time capsule by Diana, Brandon Sands and Lauren Evans (identified in the meeting as a long-tenured county employee), a dedication of the new capsule by Jeff, and closing remarks by Anne. A group-photo opportunity and logistics walk-through were set for Dec. 2 at 10:00 a.m. Commissioners were invited to participate and to provide additional feedback on the curated list before sealing.

The motion to approve the list was moved and recorded; roll-call confirmations followed and the motion passed. Organizers said they would keep the list adjustable and accepted further input from commissioners and the public before sealing the new capsule.