Council approves county financial policies, health‑department fee changes, salary amendment and other routine measures

The St. Joseph County Council cleared a slate of administrative and fiscal items on Dec. 10, approving county financial policies, health‑department fee adjustments, a salary amendment tied to Portage Manor cleanup and floodplain regulation updates.

Financial policies: Bill 127-24, presented by the petitioner and developed with the county auditor, consolidates financial policies and best practices tailored to Indiana reporting and compliance requirements. Council voted to adopt the policies without further amendment.

Health fees: Dr. Michelle McGlory, the county’s chief health officer, explained changes to the health department fines and fee schedule under Bill 118-24. She said state mandates required lower maximum fees for some permits and that the department seeks to recover costs rather than generate revenue: "We are only trying to meet our costs," she said. Council approved the change by roll call (9–0).

Salary amendment (Bill 126-24): The council approved a transfer to pay part‑time labor hired to clear debris at Portage Manor. Committee reported the item favorably; during debate, members clarified that voting for payment of workers did not constitute approval of the closure of Portage Manor. The roll-call vote recorded the measure as approved 9–0.

Floodplain update and other measures: The council also adopted Bill 124-24 to amend local floodplain regulations to remain compliant with state and federal National Flood Insurance Program requirements; the APC and staff explained the changes and one speaker expressed support. Several other committee-recommended items and appropriations were taken up and approved as part of the evening’s business.

Votes and next steps: All listed bills were adopted during the Dec. 10 meeting where recorded; departmental staff will implement changes per the adopted ordinances and policy manuals.