The Dearborn County Board approved multiple highway and construction agreements on Dec. 2, 2025, including contract inspections and the county‑funded paving contract for 2026.

County Engineer Bob Listerman presented inspection agreements with FPBH for small structure 127 (inspection contract not to exceed $50,700) and Bridge 68 (not to exceed $96,500); commissioners approved both agreements. Listerman also presented the county‑funded 2026 road paving contract awarded to Dave Amerrick contractors; the notice of award and related paperwork have been issued and commissioners approved the paving contract.

Listerman reported outcomes of the state Community Crossing matching grants: North Hogan Road — the county’s No. 1 priority — did not receive funding under the new, more competitive process. However, a second application for Beatty Road was awarded $481,871.89.

Commissioners and highway staff discussed how a county wheel tax, if implemented and set at the maximum, could bring an estimated additional ~$2 million annually into the highway fund and possibly improve the county’s ability to pursue projects. Staff said wheel tax revenue would be restricted to highway purposes.

What’s next: Project schedules and preconstruction conferences will be set; staff will return with funding plans if additional local money is needed for North Hogan Road.