Clinton County commissioners voted to reinitiate condemnation proceedings on a long-running nuisance property on County Road 1300 East, citing lack of progress and continued complaints from neighbors.
Condemnation Reinstated
The action came during the board’s June 2 meeting after Area Plan Commission (APC) Director Liz Stitzel reported that efforts to resolve septic and zoning issues at the property—referred to as the “Newton” site—had stalled.
“We have tried now several times over the last month to get a hold of the attorney,” Stitzel said. “We got no reply and we’ve waited a month… from a staff perspective, we’re kind of at the point where it would be nice if there’s not a solution to get it out of there.”
Commissioners unanimously approved a motion to repost a 10-day condemnation notice and assess additional fines. One commissioner noted the case has lingered for years without resolution, saying, “It’s been a while.”
Stitzel indicated the property owners may still return to request more time but said staff believes the process needs to move forward. The issue has generated repeated complaints from nearby residents.
Auditor Transition Announced
At the start of the meeting, commissioners acknowledged the resignation of County Auditor Britt Ostler. Deputy Auditor Janet Lloyd is serving as interim contact for the office until a party caucus is held June 13 to fill the vacancy.
“There’s no official action… but in the interim Janet was the deputy auditor and… she’ll be kind of the interim auditor,” commissioners said.
Bridge Project Near Completion
In other business, the board approved a $485,314 progress payment for work on Bridge 60, which is expected to reopen later this week pending final steps.
Highway Superintendent Rick Campbell said the project is nearing completion and routine seasonal work is also underway.
“We’re wrapping up spring,” Campbell said. “We’ve had patchers out… and we just started our 10-hour days yesterday.”
Crews are also coordinating with fairgrounds officials to address drainage issues ahead of the county fair.
New Sheriff, Staffing Updates
Newly appointed Sheriff Brendan Bright provided his first update to commissioners, describing a busy start to his tenure and outlining personnel changes.
“It’s been pretty busy and pretty hectic… but things are going well,” Bright said.
Bright announced the appointment of a new chief deputy and noted two upcoming retirements within the department. He also received approval to begin advertising for open positions, including a records clerk and future deputy hires.
“We’re not going to hire yet, but just get the ball rolling,” Bright said.
Health Clinic Transition Approved
Commissioners also approved a new health services agreement with Ascension St. Vincent, replacing the county’s previous provider. The clinic will open July 1 at a location near Walmart and will include access to 13 additional regional sites.
Officials said the change is expected to provide more flexibility for county employees seeking care.
“You will have a lot more options rather than trying to fit your needs into when the clinic was open,” commissioners noted.
Additional Updates
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APC officials reported progress on several long-standing code enforcement cases, including a Hillisburg property that now has a functioning septic system and is nearing occupancy approval.
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The health department is addressing a rodent infestation at a State Road 28 property, with costs billed to the owner.
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Commissioners approved a $30,000 bond for Sheriff Bright as required for the position.
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A request to place a temporary church sign on the courthouse lawn was approved.
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An interlocal agreement with the City of Frankfort was tabled pending documentation.
Commissioners also discussed a potential community billboard project that could feature student artwork promoting Clinton County, with support expressed for involving local schools.