Despite Commissioner Tommy Ogden’s plea to get more information on a proposal to award $100,000.00 to construct a building for Family Care Excellence, a non-credentialed faith-based organization in Chester, the proposal passed 2 to 1 with Ogden voting no. Ogden made a motion to table the proposal until further information could be obtained, but Chek and Cowey voted against it.
The organization, whose website describes it for those who find hope in Jesus, had originally sought $800,000.00. The memorandum of understanding was changed to $100,000.00 after a motion by Commissioner Paul Cowey.
Commissioner Tommy Ogden the organization is seeking money for a 24X48 building, Ogden questioned the amount per square footage saying it was high for a building that size. He also questioned the lack of specifics being provided. He had attempted to get together a workshop to discuss the project prior to awarding the money, but was unable to do so. An opioid funded workshop will be held April 6 at 9:30 a.m. to discuss the Family Care Excellence and other proposal
When questioned about why the Commioners would award money to an organization that is not credentialled by the State, Commission Chek said the organization does not administer medication which keeps it from being credentialed.
As a group of Hancock County Deputies whose budget has been cut 15% in next year’s budget and who are seeking opoid funding looked on as the measure passed. One deputy suggested the Commissioners need to look at the residence of those living at the home. He said a large percentage come from Ohio.
Josh Lytle is listed as the president of the organization which describes itself as Christ-Centered. The group was founded in 2017 in Ohio. It is located in the former residence of Mary Beth Taylor on Pyramus Road, Chester.
In other business, the Commissioners:
**Approved the following internal budget transfers: County Commission – $1,500.00; Courthouse – $52,000.00; Emergency Services – $8,925.00; and Parks & Recreation;
**Accepted the FY 25-26 Grant for America 29 Mural Project;
**Approved the order of demolition for 2825 Middle Run Road;
**Agreed to advertise for a proposal for Workers Comp coverage for fy 27;
**Accepted a proposal for Hancock County Health Department’s new garage;
**Appointed Pam Riggi as a Hancock County Museum member;
**Approved the hiring of Tami Reed as a deputy clerk in the County Clerk’s office;
**Approved the hiring of Harlee Heldreth as a full-time 911 dispatcher;
**Approved the hiring of Benjamin Dobkin as a full-time assistant prosecuter;
**Set its next regular meeting for April 9 at 2:30 p.m.
