The Clay County Board of Commissioners voted Dec. 31 to accept an anonymous $40,000 donation to the sheriff's K-9 program.

Sheriff Epting told the board the donor had contacted the office through a family member and that the gift would cover the cost of a future dog, vehicle outfitting and related equipment. He described the contribution as "very generous" and said it reflects community support for deputies' work.

Commissioners praised deputies' professionalism during brief remarks. The board approved the motion to accept the donation by voice vote; no conditions or restrictions on spending were noted during the presentation.

The acceptance was recorded as a formal board action; no additional follow-up items were scheduled at the meeting.