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Commissioners authorize sheriff to pursue $54,000 boiler replacement; staff report traffic, animal shelter and right‑of‑way issues
Summary
Sheriff John Palmer told commissioners a main jail boiler failed and requested authorization to install a replacement backup boiler at a bid of about $54,291; the commission approved pursuing the purchase and potential bond funding. Commissioners also heard updates on new jail funding discussions, fair week traffic planning, animal shelter staffing and a guardrail adjustment contingent on railroad permission.
The Franklin County Board of Commissioners authorized the sheriff July 8 to move forward with replacing a backup boiler at the county jail after hearing that the main boiler failed last winter.
"As of today, I've got 50 inmates. So if I don't get this new system, the county would be paying $2,100 a day for inmate housing someplace else," Sheriff John Palmer told commissioners, citing an off‑site housing cost of about $42 per inmate per day. He presented a contractor bid of $54,291 to install a replacement backup boiler.
Commissioners discussed funding options, including using remaining bond funds. A commissioner noted there is roughly $341,000 in additional bond‑related funds and interest available to allocate; staff said they will confirm available balances and present a funding plan to council and the commission.
The commission moved to allow the sheriff to proceed with procuring and installing a backup boiler and the motion carried by voice vote. The transcript does not record a roll‑call tally.
During the same meeting commissioners discussed broader corrections planning. One commissioner urged council to begin planning for funding a new jail, citing repeated repair costs for the existing facility.
Sheriff Palmer and local police discussed traffic management during fair week. They said construction at a bridge near the south end of town prevents a full two‑lane reopening; Brookville Police will staff peak hours and the sheriff's office will provide deputies during busy periods.
The commission also heard that the animal shelter's small animal control officer remains on leave and that the county has hired a part‑time worker for feeding and cleaning. Commissioners were told staff are exploring purchase of a tranquilizer gun and a safer loading ramp and will work with the auditor to create a proper budget line.
Finally, the commission approved a motion to adjust a guardrail on Saint Peters Road to clear a path for property owner Austin Ford, contingent on receiving permission from the railroad to use its right of way. The motion instructed staff to proceed with guardrail reconfiguration once railroad permission is provided.
Next steps: the sheriff will pursue procurement and return with financing details; county staff will confirm bond fund availability, finalize animal shelter budget adjustments as needed, and act on guardrail work after railroad approval.
