The Jewell County Commissioners met Dec. 19. Commissioners Steve Greene, Keith Roe, and Brent Beck, and Carla Waugh, county clerk, were present. Ed Duskie, commissioner elect, joined the meeting.

Travis Garst, solid waste director, reported all the equipment is in good condition with the exception of the track loader needing repairs. The staff assisted him in replacing all the lighting in the transfer station with LED lights. He said the price for recyclables has decreased considerably.

Don Jacobs, sheriff, discussed his plans for the sheriff’s department 2023 capital outlay budget. He said newly hired Deputy Brei resigned. Don said the jail will be closed while the department is short staffed as two officers are at the training academy. He plans to house inmates in other counties.

Joel Elkins, general superintendent, discussed maintenance. He said the State of Kansas announced Jewell County was approved for a contract bridge project in Limestone Township.

The commissioners approved the 2023 Employment Rules and Regulations for all Jewell County Departments, effective Dec. 25, 2022.

Commissioners approved the Jewell County Courthouse Offices close to the public beginning at noon on Dec. 30 for the purpose of closing out year-end book work.