Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Solid Waste Management District Director Sue Studebaker received permission to interview people for a part-time office assistant Tuesday.
She reminded the board of directors the 21-hour per-week position was budgeted and part of the salary ordinance. She said three people have applied for the job without advertisement.
She said when the district had fewer programs a few years ago, there was a secretary.
She doesn't promote educational programs because she doesn't have time to do them.
The board showed reluctance to allow another part-time employee. The district has two employees now, Studebaker and a man who comes in part-time to help with sorting materials.
"OK, then, I'll just cut back even more. Either you want me to be the board secretary and compile your minutes or you want me to be your director. I don't think this board has decided."
"You get the director's salary," said board member Avis Gunter.
"I don't want to see it grow any larger," said board member Brad Jackson.
Auditor Sue Ann Mitchell said she thought five board members had to decide a personnel issue and just four were present.
Studebaker said the depot could be open to the public with an assistant.
A sign posted beside the recycling station behind the Depot, listing and illustrating acceptable recycled materials, has been a good tool, according to Jim Stafford, Studebaker said.
Stafford Solid Waste has the recycling contract and there have been problems with people throwing unacceptable materials and leaving materials outside the stations.
The board approved a Graycraft contract for seven more signs at a cost of $560 each, installed.
Jackson was elected chairman for the second year with Ron Truex also serving as vice chairman for the second time.
The board also:
• Heard Computers for Charity inquired about picking up computers brought to the district. They offer 2 cents per pound less than Chesapeake, the current computer hauler. An annual contract with Chesapeake was signed at the same rates. They charge $625 for each collection, four times a year.
Computers for Charities, in Elkhart, refurbishes computers and gives them away to charitable organizations and individuals who cannot afford them.
• Heard that 3,032 pounds of shoes were collected during the recent recycling project. In 2005 the Knights of Columbus, the North Webster Food Pantry and the Atwood Girl Scouts collected shoes.
• Heard the 2004 Public Education and Promotion grant is closed and the household hazardous waste bill for $15,000 was forwarded to Ameri-Waste. Ameri-Waste has agreed to pay for HHW expenses.
• Heard 25,800 pounds of electronics were recycled in 2005.
Solid Waste Management District members are Brad Jackson, Avis Gunter, John Kinsey and George Clemens. Ernie Wiggins, Ron Truex and David Delp were absent.
