Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Merit Board met Thursday to discuss staffing milestones, major budget savings and pension progress.
Department leaders reported high community engagement over the past two months, including school events, parades, safety demonstrations and a fully booked Camp HERO set to host 240 children.
“Each year, it seems that we uptick the number of kiddos a little bit,” said Public Information Officer Sgt. Doug Light.
Operational updates highlighted key improvements. Jail Commander Lt. Kevin Gelbaugh gave a rundown on several of the topics the jail had addressed since last month.
All jail positions are now filled, with the maintenance projects, like the inclusion of new locking systems.
A malfunctioning booking photo system forced deputies to revert to using handheld cameras, but IT is working on a fix. “It’s been a frustrating endeavor,” said Patrol Commander Lt. Michael Mulligan.
Mulligan reported nearly 10,000 calls and 912 reports year-to-date. New body and dash camera systems have been contracted, and older fleet vehicles are being prepped for auction.
Recent academy graduate, Merit Deputy Jamasyn Virgil, is now in field training, helping move closer to a goal of six deputies per shift.
Jail matron Michelle Hyden, reported an estimated $415,000 in food budget savings through a switch to KellWell Food Management.
“It's a little more work for the staff, for the inmates, but they're getting more food and it's healthier options. So I think it's a win-win no matter how you break it,” Sheriff Jim Smith said, noting the program’s ability to provide a more consistent food ordering and scheduling for kitchen staff.
On the topic of pensions, the board reviewed strong investment performance and funding at 97.5%, well above the state average. A new actuarial report will be ordered to guide a proposed cost-of-living adjustment.
Despite a few unavoidable cost increases, the department’s proposed 2025 budget is $387,000 less than the previous year. “That doesn’t happen without people buying in,” Smith said.
The board meeting ended with praise for staff efforts amid ongoing community events, rising summer activity and the lead-up to budget season.
Kosciusko County Sheriff's Office Merit Board meets every second Thursday, each month, with the next meeting set for July 10.
