Pulaski County’s COVID-19 Incident Management Team is trying to find personal protective equipment for those who need it. Team members told the county council Monday that they’ve been providing PPE to the hospital, fire departments, and even some businesses.
Community Development Commission Executive Director Nathan Origer said the Eastern Pulaski Community School Corporation has donated wipes, hand sanitizer, and other cleaning supplies that are no longer needed since students aren’t in the building. The Pulaski County Emergency Management Agency was also able to get supplies specifically for first responders.
Council members finalized a $100,000 additional appropriation out of the Riverboat Fund to cover the up-front costs, which could be reimbursed up to 75-percent with federal funding. So far, the team says it’s only spent $657 to purchase plexiglass barriers for the courthouse offices. That money can also be used for overtime costs directly related to the COVID-19 response for employees with the county’s EMA, Health Department, and possibly the Sheriff’s Office.
The council also agreed that the hazard pay for essential employees who had to work during the county’s temporary workforce reduction would also come out of that same $100,000 appropriation. Origer did not believe the hazard pay would be eligible for the federal reimbursement, though.
Meanwhile, Pulaski County has also gotten PPE for the upcoming Primary Election from the Indiana Secretary of State’s Office. The County Election Board notified council members that hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, face masks, and gloves are expected to be delivered this Friday.
