Pulaski County is joining hundreds of other government entities in a class action lawsuit against opioid manufacturers and distributors. Last week, the county commissioners approved a contract with Indianapolis law firm Cohen and Malad.
County Attorney Kevin Tankersley explained that joining the litigation comes at no risk to Pulaski County. “If you join the action, then whatever they collect they’ll charge us,” he said. “Otherwise, they’re paying the costs.”
Tankersley discussed the litigation with the commissioners during a recent executive session. Cohen and Malad Attorney Jeff Gibson is scheduled to present more information during tonight’s joint session of the county council and commissioners.
In other business tonight, EMS Director Bryan Corn will discuss expanding the Winamac EMS base to more easily fit the department’s ambulances. Plans for a building expansion were presented last year, but county officials were concerned with the cost and asked if it could be scaled back.
Tonight’s joint Pulaski County Council and Commissioners meeting starts at 6:00 EST at the Pulaski County Courthouse, followed by the council’s regular meeting at 7:00. During tonight’s council meeting, Community Development Commission Executive Director Nathan Origer is expected to discuss a one-percent pay raise.
Coroner John Behny will present his proposal to charge fees for various written reports, as well as cremation releases. Council members will also consider additional appropriation requests from Highway Superintendent Terry Ruff, Superior Court Judge Crystal Brucker Kocher, and Sheriff Jeff Richwine.
