Howard County approves MOU for mental-health services, advertises road resurfacing bids

Howard County officials at a public meeting approved a memorandum of understanding to secure mental-health services from Steven Nichols, authorized the county to advertise a community crossings resurfacing project with bids due April 6, and approved routine payroll and operating claims.

The memorandum of understanding discussed would pair a staff member identified in the transcript as 'Kenzie' with Steven Nichols to provide mental-health services. A staff member told the board they had reviewed the MOU and found it legally acceptable; the board moved and voted to approve the agreement. The MOU's effective date and financial terms were not specified in the transcript.

The board also voted to advertise the community crossings resurfacing project, with bids scheduled to be returned on April 6. The request to advertise was made by Amber, who asked that the project be opened to bidders; the motion to advertise was approved by voice vote.

On routine financial business the board approved salary claims totaling $1,162,969.43 and operating claims totaling $2,116,448.31. The board also ratified one claim to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development for $3,676.08. A clerk presented the claims, motions to approve were made and seconded, and the board approved them by voice vote.

Separately, the sheriff's office requested permission to purchase a replacement lawnmower for the road crew (the current unit was purchased in 2016 and is approaching 1,200 hours). The board was told there are sufficient funds in the road crew line item and approved the purchase.

A committee member praised Howard Haven and its staff during the meeting, saying, "I can't compliment your staff enough," and multiple members thanked crews who handled recent storm-related tree cleanup.

Next steps: the resurfacing project will be advertised with bids due April 6; details and any contract awards were not specified in the transcript.