MITCHELL COUNTY COMMISSIONERS â€“ Monday, May 1, 2023

By Terry Bailey

The Mitchell County Commissioners conducted their regular weekly business meeting at the Courthouse on Monday morning, May 1. All Commissioners were present at the meeting.
First up on the docket was Emily Benedick, Mitchell County Economic Specialist. Benedick shared her office was a recent recipient of a grant in the amount of $423,000 to apply toward the renovation of the Duckwalks/Sperry Building. Plans are being made to create individual office space, co-working areas, and a meeting room on the first floor of the building. Benedick noted they already have between $150,000 and $175,000 in the renovation account but are still short of having enough money to finish off the project.
Individual grants were awarded to Mitchell County childcare providers. Benedick said the total grant money of $1,700 was divided equally between nine local providers. This money will allow providers to purchase washer/ dryers, carpeting and other enhancement to the care of children.
The new mural in Hunter will start in about two weeks. Benedick noted that the Hunter community raised more money for their mural than any other town in Mitchell County.
Marty Hernandez, Superintendent of Public Works, reported that the cement floor in new County Shop building has still not "cured." In other words, the cement is retaining significant moisture and has not yet dried out as expected. Everyone noted that the floor had been poured long enough ago that it should have been cured some time ago.
The Commissioners encouraged Hernandez to consult an independent concrete specialist to determine what action needs to be taken. Hernandez said he would do so and report back to them.
Eric Hamel, Emergency Medical Services Director, reported he had received a grant of $4,47.40 to apply to a new auto pulse device. This will provide CPR service as needed which would free up a technician for other emergency work. The total cost of the auto pulse device is $17,905.60. This will amount to a local cost of $13,429.40.
Kathy Webster and Barb Wise were present to request the Commissioners to declare the month of May as Mental Health Awareness and Recovery month. The Commissioners noted that there is still negative stigma regarding the seeking of treatment for mental health concerns. Webster and Wise emphasized one of the key factors in maintaining good mental health was early and effective attention of concerns.
Dawn Snyder, standing in for Wanda Backstrom, was on hand present the Commissioners with information regarding Mitchell County's contribution to the 12th Judicial District budget. There was no increase in the 2024 contribution.
David Dohe appeared to talk to the Commissioners about the Flood Plain and burning cautions.
Having addressed all the items on the published agenda, the meeting was adjourned.

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