Treasurer reports strong CD interest income, seeks funding for motor‑vehicle security and ergonomics

The County Treasurer reported that Miami County currently holds about $40 million in certificates of deposit and expects investment interest to generate roughly $1.5 million by year end. “Most right currently, I have 40,000,000 in CDs,” the treasurer said, adding recent bids averaged roughly 4.0–4.35% on newly issued CDs.

Why it matters: Higher interest income increases general‑fund resources the commission may consider during budget decisions. The treasurer asked for roughly $263,000 in additional department funding largely tied to security improvements, adjustable desks for staff ergonomics and other office equipment. She emphasized the office’s role in collecting revenue and recent success on tax sale collections.

Staffing, traffic and service model: The treasurer described motor vehicle customer patterns and staffing constraints. Motor vehicle appointments recorded 4,533 scheduled appointments and about 4,058 walk‑ins since January, producing workload peaks during tax and license seasons. The treasurer said motor vehicle has eight customer stations and about seven staff who serve driver‑license and motor‑vehicle duties on a typical day; net staffing availability can be lower with vacations and leave.

Security and facility requests: The treasurer asked the commission to fund physical security measures at front counters (safety glass) and to convert some fixed desks to height‑adjustable units to reduce employee back and neck injuries. The FY‑2026 budget includes an increased line for professional services and office equipment tied to those requests. She also noted the risk of losing secure storage space if the old sheriff’s office is demolished and the clerk’s office must rent climate‑controlled space for election equipment.

Revenue and special items: The treasurer reported the county secured over $900,000 from a recent tax sale and earlier collections over $580,000 in back taxes; distribution and accounting steps remain ongoing. She explained that the interest earnings from CDs are recorded to the general fund rather than in department revenue lines for the treasurer’s budget documents.

Open questions and next steps: Commissioners asked for clarification on tradeoffs between tax department renovations and adding desks or safety glass in motor vehicle; the treasurer said both offices need attention but did not propose a phased plan. The commission requested more detailed cost estimates and timing; no formal budget action was taken at the hearing.

Ending: The treasurer’s presentation closed with requests for follow‑up estimates and direction to coordinate with facilities and finance on storage, security and desk reconfiguration plans.