Council tables salary ordinance for new sheriff deputy/social worker; discusses out-of-county prisoners request

The Dubois County Council on March 18 heard updates on a grant-funded Sheriff Deputy/Social Worker position and discussed a request from the sheriff for a letter supporting out-of-county prisoners.

Auditor Sandra L. Morton reported that the Board of Commissioners created a combined Sheriff Deputy/Social Worker position that will be funded from the Justice & Mental Health Grant over a three-year period, but funds will not be available until the planning phase, possibly mid-2024. The wage classification was set as MPOLE II; the council reached consensus to table approval of the related salary ordinance until additional information is provided.

Sheriff Tom Kleinhelter requested a letter of support to hold out-of-county prisoners. The council held a discussion in which various concerns were expressed; the minutes record that no formal action was taken on the request.

The council also received routine updates on the Emergency Management Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan and jail construction timelines. The jail project was reported as expected to be completed by the end of April 2024.