Many of the funds Marshall County officials are spending in response to COVID-19 are expected to be reimbursed, according to Marshall County Commission President Kevin Overmyer. He told the Marshall County Council members on Monday that Barnes and Thornburg officials are processing claims through representatives of the Indiana Finance Authority (IFA) who determines if it is a valid expense for reimbursement.
The council previously approved an additional appropriation in the amount of $50,000 to provide funds for immediate needs. Overmyer said another $50,000 may need to be appropriated to get necessary equipment, although it may be higher following an assessment by the IT Department to ensure the right things are in place in case there is another shutdown. Other quotes are being gathered for a more specific amount to be determined.
Overmyer said that the construction of a morgue may be covered with COVID-19 funds, which was discussed with IFA officials. The project would need to be under contract by the end of December in order to qualify.
The county has given money to the Fund the Essentials campaign to help Marshall County residents with needs, personal protective equipment has been purchased for every county office, many offices now have plexiglass dividers to keep employees and members of the public safe, and the Auditor’s Office has a new counter where one was previously not built. Additional cleaning and maintenance supplies have also been purchased with funds that can be considered for reimbursement.
The county plans on stocking up on personal protective equipment and other items to have on hand for the fall and winter.
Paperwork for additional funds may be brought before the council at their next meeting in August.
