The Grant County Board of Commissioners has approved implementing a new fee schedule or rate structure for individuals who wish to obtain county building permits. The issue was among the regular business items acted upon by the commissioners during today’s (Tuesday’s) regular board meeting. Grant County Auditor Karen Layher informed the board that the overall cost for building a home in Grant County has increased as of late, which has prompted the need for making across-the-board changes to the county’s rate structure for the building permits. In approving the new rate structure, it was noted that the maximum amount that can be charged for a building permit for any project is $30,000.
In other business, the board approved the appointment of Mark Leddy to serve on the county Planning and Zoning Commission in place of Gary Lindeman who recently submitted his resignation from the board.
Grant County Development Corporation Executive Director Bobbie Bohlen brought the board up-to-date on some special projects that are currently being implemented to help spur economic growth within the county. Bobbie noted that her office has been making use of a recruiting video that showcases certain area businesses with the intent of trying to lure potential new industries to the greater Grant County area. Bobbie further noted that her office has been actively working to better promote the “I Believe in Milbank” community assessment survey, as local officials look to build the Milbank Index over the coming months. A series of “listening Post” sessions are being conducted on Wednesdays from 11 – 1 at the Seehafer Building on Main Street in Milbank in an effort to gather additional public input on the matter, as well.
Grant County Sheriff Kevin Owen was also on hand to provide the commissioners with an update on the latest developments taking place from a law enforcement perspective. Sheriff Owen noted that the average daily inmate population for the county jail is just under two prisoners per month. The department also handled 344 local service calls during the past month. Sheriff Owen further noted that a series of renovation and repair projects have also recently been completed within the sheriff’s office itself, including a special flooring project, the installation of a new counter top and sink and paint work throughout different areas of the building.
