Commissioners Zoom's Meeting

The Richland County Board of Commissioners’ budget and business meeting on October 27, 2026, reviewed several 2027 department budgets and procurement items. Commissioners approved a Tyler contract after discussion of an increase over the current reported cost of $22,000 annually; the proposal would shift some vehicle/computer functions to iPads and mobile reporting, and officials noted there was no routine termination provision other than cancellation for financial reasons. The prosecutor’s office requested two additional criminal prosecutors and an Axon Justice Suite estimated at $54,000 for 2027; these requests were discussed but no decision was recorded. Other budget items included $16,000 for child-support office carpet replacement, a building department vehicle replacement and software maintenance of about $28,000 annually, and a $20,000 state grant for the assisted outpatient treatment program. The meeting also discussed employee raises and a projected $1 million increase in health-insurance costs.

Officials reported completion of the Belleville-Johnsville wastewater infrastructure project, with construction costs of just over $4.5 million. The work included lift stations, pumps, and force-main replacement, and was described as an ARPA investment supporting current service and future development; the presentation credited local contractor Driven and use of Gorman-Rupp pumps. Commissioners also approved routine requisitions, commissioner travel requests, and replacement of a part-time kennel attendant. No approval of the prosecutor’s requested positions or Axon purchase was recorded.