The most recent meeting of the Clinton County Council department updates and critical financial matters. Community Corrections reported 99 clients in its program, slightly above average, with a Department of Corrections site visit scheduled for November 5. Officials noted growing concerns about future funding cuts and are awaiting communication from state representatives. The Probation Department announced that no juveniles were held in detention over the past month, keeping costs significantly below budget.
During the public comment portion, former jail matron Wanda Mitchell addressed the council to clarify several misconceptions discussed at previous meetings. Mitchell stated she did not receive deputy pay in 2018 and provided the salary ordinance as documentation. She emphasized that commissary operations were handled internally during her tenure with no outside contracts or price gouging and noted that inmates were not provided nicotine products, in compliance with county policy. Mitchell said all procedures were audited by the Indiana State Board of Accounts and urged county officials to prioritize cooperation and compromise.
The council faced a major challenge with the county budget after learning that health insurance premiums are projected to rise by 53% compared to the previous year due to unusually high claims. For every dollar paid in premiums, $1.53 has been paid out in claims. Because of the scale of the increase, the council delayed budget adoption while the benefits committee works to negotiate more manageable plan options, likely resulting in reduced benefits. This comes after eight consecutive years of minimal cost increases of less than 1% annually. To help offset the insurance costs, the council proposed replacing tiered pay raises with a flat 2% raise for all employees, which would free up over $100,000. A final health insurance plan and budget proposal will be presented on October 24.
The council approved a number of additional appropriations, including funds for emergency management equipment, public health initiatives, jail repairs, interpreter services, cemetery upkeep, and grant projects. Numerous end-of-year transfers were also approved to balance department budgets. While health insurance posed a financial challenge, the council reported good news on ancillary benefits, including decreases in dental, vision, and life insurance premiums. Savings from these reductions will be redirected to support the county’s primary health insurance fund.
Council and commissioner updates highlighted the ongoing relocation of county offices and the substantial administrative work involved in managing the transition. Members who attended the Association of Indiana Counties conference reported new responsibilities under Senate Bill 1, including oversight of township strategic plans. The council also discussed streamlining stipends to simplify financial administration.
Department heads delivered updates on ongoing initiatives. The Sheriff’s Office provided clarification regarding historical pay practices, commissary pricing, and the use of nicotine products in the jail for behavioral management among adult inmates. The Sheriff emphasized progress in jail programs and operations. The Emergency Management Agency announced updates to the county’s multi-hazard mitigation plan and noted that department participation is required to maintain eligibility for FEMA grants.
The Health Department reported the establishment of a finance subcommittee to ensure better oversight in the wake of state budget cuts. Officials stressed the importance of timely expenditures to avoid future reductions and announced an upcoming board meeting with the state health commissioner scheduled to attend as guest speaker. EMS reported increased revenue collections that may reach $1.9 million for the year and described successful active shooter training events conducted with local emergency responders. EMS leadership also addressed public concerns, reaffirming that patient transport decisions are always based on clinical needs. The council is closer to finalizing its 2024 budget and employee compensation strategy.