After 28 years, Brad Jackson has attended his last meeting as Kosciusko County commissioner.
That occurred on Monday in the Kosciusko County Courthouse's Old Courtroom.
At the end of the meeting, Kosciusko County Councilwoman Sue Ann Mitchell, who's taking Jackson's spot representing the northern district of the county beginning next year, came before the podium. Jackson opted to not run for re-election this year.
"I just wanted to step to the mic, Brad, to tell you how much I've appreciated our relationship, the fact that we've been able to communicate," she said. "We've always remained friends. We may not have always 100% agreed, but we have that common decency between us and great respect."
Mitchell said, "I just want to tell you how much I appreciate how hard you have worked for this county, and some of the things that you've been able to accomplish over your years here."
She also called Jackson's service "exemplary."
"I so appreciate it. Thank you very much," said Mitchell.
Kosciusko County Commissioners' President Bob Conley thanked Mitchell.
"Everyone here that's worked with Brad knows and understands how correct your wording is this morning," said Conley.
Conley stepped down early from being president for the year, allowing Jackson to serve in the role one last time at Tuesday's meeting.
In other business, the commissioners:
• Approved a request brought by Kosciusko County Sheriff Jim Smith and Chief Deputy Chris McKeand for new cameras at Kosciusko County Work Release at a cost of $27,250. They will be paid for via $10,000 from commissary funds, with the rest out of budgeted information technology monies.
• Appointed Robert Hookman to serve the remainder of Joe Cleland's term on the Lakeland Regional Sewer District Board through April 2028. Cleland is leaving due to "personal reasons," said Jim Haney with the LRSD.
• Approved a Core Mechanical bid of $151,662 to replace the chiller at the courthouse.
• Approved a $177,536.05 contract with Kosciusko Connect to lay fiber to Kosciusko County Work Release and then out to the Kosciusko County Highway Department. It's paid for using American Rescue Plan Act funds.
• Approved a request brought by Kosciusko County Area Plan Commission Director Matt Sandy for an agreement with Emans Engineering to review drainage plans at $750 apiece.
• Agreed to allow outgoing Kosciusko County Surveyor Mike Kissinger to buy an old piece of equipment for $400 for sentimental reasons.
The next commissioners' meeting is 9 a.m. Jan. 14 in the old courtroom.