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Morgan County approves purchase of Reporter Tynings Building; staff praise departing county official Josh Mesmer
Summary
The county authorized execution of a purchase agreement for the Reporter Tynings Building and publicly recognized Josh Mesmer, a county staff member who announced plans to leave his role. Commissioners approved the purchase and thanked Mesmer for his service.
Morgan County commissioners voted Sept. 15 to execute a purchase agreement for the Reporter Tynings Building and publicly acknowledged county staff member Josh Mesmer’s upcoming departure.
County staff told the board the county previously took control of the building with an option to purchase and that executing the present agreement will move the purchase to closing. Staff said earlier option‑related payments tied to the property were “to the tune of about $600,000,” and that the signed purchase agreement will be scheduled for closing once commissioners approve execution.
The board also recognized Josh Mesmer, who addressed the meeting and said serving the county had been an honor. Commissioners and staff praised Mesmer’s data work, collaboration with departments (including courts and the prosecuting office) and role in long‑range projects tied to the courthouse and judicial campus. Mesmer said he plans to remain connected to the community and thanked his family and colleagues.
What was approved
- Motion to execute the purchase and sale agreement for the Reporter Tynings Building. Motion by Brian Collier; second by Mr. Adams. Outcome: approved, 3‑0. Staff said the signed agreement was already in hand from the seller and recommended scheduling closing.
Remarks about the transaction and staff
County staff said the building had been placed into county control after an earlier option to purchase and that the recent signed agreement will finalize the sale. The staff presentation described the seller’s renovation work and the county’s plan to integrate the building into the judicial campus master plan; staff also said the county will provide space for the public health department.
On personnel, commissioners and staff offered public thanks and an award to Josh Mesmer. Mesmer described his service to the county as a high honor, thanked his family and colleagues, and said this was not goodbye but "until next tax bill," signaling ongoing community ties.
Next steps
Staff said they will schedule a closing and complete required transaction paperwork. No financing details beyond the earlier option payment mentioned in the meeting were presented during the public session.
