COUNTY COMMISSION: Celebration of the courthouse’s 155th birthday discussed

A celebration was unable to be planned for its 150th due to restrictions of the pandemic, so Wood was hoping to host a celebration for its 155th, featuring plenty of musical guests among other possible amenities, around the courthouse lawn. She requested use of the courthouse for the event. No decision was made by the commission, due to the unknown date of when the sidewalk construction will begin.

Wood also requested the commission consider putting a permanent sign outside the courthouse detailing a Boeing B17 crash that occurred in the Meramec Township, “officially bringing Dent County into World War II,” shared Wood. No decision was made on the sign, either, with the commission to discuss the information at a later time.

Meanwhile, Larson reported he attended a tourism meeting on May 19, in which board members approved one request from the Salem Chamber of Commerce and two reimbursement requests.

The judicial building roof has sustained damages but may be under warranty, with the commissioners to investigate. The roof on the annex building also needs repaired.

Curley reported that liquor licenses for buildings in Dent County are due no later than June 30.

Curley also visited with Deidiker of Deidiker, Alvarado and Associates, LLC. who has finished the county financial audit. Deidiker reported that the county maintains strong fiscal management.

“We achieved a balanced budget and conservative cost saving measures to ensure financial stability,” stated Curley, on Deidiker’s findings.

Sean McGonigle with MAC Trust came in to give an update—discussing that claims have been down for the county. McGonigle also shared a legislative update on the ongoing issue facing the sheriff’s retirement fund.

A closed session was held Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11:50 a.m.

Representatives from Attentive Management Co. attended on Monday to provide information on more options for county employees for preventative healthcare.

Road Reports, Thursday

District One Commissioner Keith Green

Crew members will be cleaning pipes out on County Road 6300 and will be patching, grading, and hauling rock on County Road 5400.

District Two Commissioner Jimmy Williams

Crew members will assist district one crew members on County Road 5400, 5330 and will also assist hauling rock. A road was fixed in the Boss area on County Road 5323.

Road Reports, Monday

District One Commissioner Keith Green

Pipes will be installed in the Phillip’s subdivision. Drainage work will also be completed, along with grading around County Road 5390. Additional pipes will be installed on County Road 6100. Rock will be hauled where needed.

District Two Commissioner Jimmy Williams

Crew members will be hauling rock and grading on County Road 4060, 5340, and 5333. Grading will be completed on County Road 2303 and brush cutting on County Road 6150.