As seems to be the norm lately, this past weekend brought in high winds and rain to spotted areas of Carroll County. This caused road crews to respond by reworking roads that just last week were brought to good condition, or clearing trees laying over in the roads. It is seemingly an unending battle with mother nature. However, your road department is out there for you. If you happen to have time just wave and give a friendly smile…that will go a long way.

Last week a decision was made, based upon quotes from local banks, to invest in a certificate of deposit in the amount of $620,000.00. This is from the sale of ten old road graders. These funds in three years, when the lease is up, can be utilized to purchase these leased graders outright, or to be put into the road department operating fund. The value at that time will be about $683,100.00. And, if the county chooses to purchase the graders, there will still be two years of warranty remaining. County government and affiliates are on course to be more financially efficient.

This past week county health insurance was changed to a "Fully Insured" from a "Partially Self Funded" plan. When the Quorum Court initially considered "Fully Insured" there was concern to affordability; however, all said and done the annual premium was slightly over $65,000 less per year, a savings to the taxpayers.

Also, reported in the weekend edition of the Carroll County News, the Carroll County Solid Waste Authority, which the County Judge is on the Board of Directors, changed health insurance provider for a substantial savings, implemented some "in house" vehicle maintenance for additional cost cutting and reviewed staffing of the office and eliminated a full-time position in being financially prudent in operating costs. The rates will still require in increase; however, not as much.

It appears that as I have promoted 'Responsibility and Accountability" that the issue is taking grasp…the money in the county coffers belongs to the taxpayers, the responsible officials are only custodians for the people and should make decisions accordingly…this is a business, big business…to be operated without favors, but equal to all.

I have been requested by operators of the road department to ask when it is raining to please turn your headlights on. There have been occasions of close calls of not seeing traffic in heavy rain by drivers. Also, state law requires that if windshield wipers are on your headlights are also to be on.

Please drive carefully, and the temperature is rising…do not leave children or pets in vehicles unattended.