Phase one of the Starke County Highway Department’s five-year facilities upgrade plan is underway.
The county council recently approved the appropriation of money generated from permits, mechanical labor, auctions, scrap and other income sources into highway department building maintenance. Superintendent Rik Ritzler says reallocating the funds will allow the county to make improvements to the 40-year-old building without a cost to taxpayers.
He told the commissioners this week the rear bay door has been replaced and the new fuel pumps and card system have been installed. A security system is also being added at the front gate. Ritzler says highway department employees and others who need access will have gate and fuel access cards to keep track of who comes and goes. Both will be coordinated through the auditor’s office.
Employee break room and restroom upgrades are also planned soon.
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