Beth Rumsey, Staff Writer

The Ripley County Commissioners viewed bids by Pulskamp Flooring in Batesville, and G&B Carpet of Versailles to replace the carpet on the third floor of the courthouse at their meeting held Monday, March 24. The commissioners compared the cost of traditional carpet to carpet tiles, with tiles being more expensive initially. They decided on the tiles, saying the cost of labor and the fact that the tiles can be easily replaced if the carpet becomes stained were factors in the decision. They unanimously agreed to accept the bid from G&B Carpet for carpet tiles at a cost of $21,547, which includes installation, labor, and the removal of the old carpet.

Ripley County Sheriff Tom Grills received permission to close a portion of Benham Road to hold a mock car accident in April. This event, sponsored by South Ripley High School, will show students what happens when involved in a car accident while driving under the influence. The sheriff’s department, as well as the Versailles Volunteer Fire Department will participate in the event, and will hold a question and answer session afterwards.

Parking issues at the jail were brought to the commissioners’ attention. Grills will investigate options to increase parking for visitors and personnel, and report his findings at a later date. Grills also requested permission to replace the landscape timbers around the flagpole.

Johnnie Lohrum, courthouse maintenance, reported that he is waiting for bids to replace the locks on the courthouse. Lohrum also agreed to paint the walls on the third floor prior to the installation of the new carpet. He said possible drainage issues have caused a portion of the ground under the sidewalk near the men’s restroom to sink. He was given permission to investigate the cause and possibly fix the problem.

Highway Garage Supervisor Junior Heaton reported that there will be an auction of surplus equipment at the county garage in Osgood. The auction will be announced two weeks prior to the sale date. A quote for repairs to Bridge #89 was requested by the commissioners.

In other business:

• The commissioners unanimously agreed to sign a contract concerning the upkeep of the state voter registration system.

• Ripley County received a supplemental payment for fiscal year 2007 for $70,548 from the City of Rising Sun.

• The commissioners agreed to sign a Local Emergency Proclamation to receive funds from Homeland Security for declaring an emergency during the flood.

All of the commissioners, Robert Reiners, Chuck Folz, and Lawrence Nickell, were present at the meeting, along with Attorney Neil Comer. The commissioners will meet again on April 7 at 8:00 a.m. at the commissioners’ meeting room in the annex.