Commissioners moved July 22 to add to next week's consent agenda a one-time billboard advertising contract with Lamar for the county's annual Hope Remembrance Ceremony. The advertisement will run on a digital billboard in Benner Township from Aug. 4 through Aug. 31 at a cost of $1,200; staff said Applegate Recovery will share the cost.

Why it matters. The nut graf: staff and commissioners described the remembrance ceremony as a public, community event to honor those lost to addiction and to support families; advertising on a busy county roadway aims to increase public awareness and attendance.

Event details. Criminal justice planning staff said the ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 27 at 6:30 p.m. at Talleyrand Park, with speakers including members of the treatment court program. Staff presented a mockup image of the billboard for review and commissioners supported the use of Hope Initiative funds and partnership contributions to cover the cost.

Board action. A motion to add the Lamar contract to next week's consent agenda carried by voice vote. Commissioners praised the county's partnership with Applegate Recovery and said the billboard will reach a high-traffic location to promote the public event.

Next steps. The advertising contract will be on next week's consent agenda for formal approval and staff said they are finalizing the ceremony agenda and speakers.