Solid Waste director authorized to manage totaled vehicle claim; commissioners advise shopping for replacements

Commissioners authorized DuBois County Auditor and the Solid Waste Management District director to manage the insurance claim and related actions after the district’s small pickup was totaled in a not‑at‑fault crash.

Carla Streagle, director of the DuBois County Solid Waste Management District, reported that a used Ranger pickup purchased in February 2014 was “slightly totaled” after a crash at a local intersection. She told commissioners the vehicle operator was not at fault, there were no personal injuries, and Progressive — the other driver’s insurer — indicated the vehicle would be moved to an IAA facility in Indianapolis for inspection. Streagle asked whether she could authorize the tow; commissioners gave permission but directed that title or settlement documents should not be executed without board review.

Commissioners also authorized Streagle to pursue procurement of replacement vehicles. Streagle said she would look for a midsize pickup and smaller box truck; commissioners suggested a used midsize pickup in the $30,000 range and noted prior discussions about a $30,000–$35,000 box‑truck purchase. A motion expressly authorized the county auditor and solid‑waste director “to manage this situation,” and commissioners added a proviso that no settlement be signed without board review.

Separately, the board heard that the district’s box truck has been out of service since December due to an expensive needed repair and that insurance proceeds from the totaled Ranger are unlikely to cover a replacement. Commissioners agreed the director should “shop around” and return with realistic replacement options and price ranges at a future meeting.

The motion passed by voice vote; the transcript records the motion and “Aye. Motion carries” but does not include a roll‑call tally.