Deep Water Township seeks to use cart funds to repave Southwest 1151; commissioners raise advance-payment question

During the March 31 Henry County Commission meeting, Commissioner Jake Bradley reported that Deep Water Township leaders want to use township cart (road) funds to mill and repave the paved portion of Southwest 1151, citing a preference for preserving the existing pavement rather than full replacement.

"They want to use their cart funds for the special project," Commissioner Jake Bradley said, describing a local decision to prioritize the paved stretch from HH town. Commissioners agreed the request appeared to be a good use of township cart funds if the work fits maintenance requirements and safeguards the countys road standards.

Dennis Bowers, Henry County Road and Bridge supervisor, attended the meeting and described his support for helping townships with projects and keeping roads "up to the best shape possible." The commission discussed whether cart funds can be paid in advance; minutes note that it had been done in the past but current rules are uncertain because of a restructured road-and-bridge budget.

Next steps: staff will confirm procedural details (whether cart funds may be applied up front under the new budget rules) and follow up with the township and city sign-offs where required. No formal vote or county fronting of money was recorded at the meeting; commissioners indicated the typical approach is to coordinate paperwork and township resolutions before proceeding.

Clarifying details: Deep Water Township proposed use of township cart funds for Southwest 1151 (paved portion from HH town); prior quotes for milling existed but township prefers to save pavement; county staff uncertain about advance payment practice under the updated road-and-bridge budget.