The Montgomery County Board approved a new Collective Bargaining Agreement with the Sheriff's Department Fraternal Order of Police at their meeting April 11.

The board met during closed session towards the beginning of their meeting to discuss the matter. The agreement is for two years at an increase of 70 cents per hour in the first year, and another 70 cents per hour in the second. After returning to open session, the board voted, and the motion passed with 16 voting yes, 3 voting no, and 1 member abstaining. Board members Mike Plunkett, Glenn Savage, and Connie Beck all voted no, and Tim Hopper abstained.

Health, Wellness, and Elections Committee Chairman Connie Beck informed the board that State's Attorney Chris Matoush was in possession of the proposed Animal Control Ordinance, and that the board would not vote on it until he has had a chance to look through it. Beck admitted that it could be months before a vote is taken.

During the Buildings and Ground briefing, Undersheriff Rick Robbins informed the board that a lightning strike at the jail hit the microwave system from the old tower that transmits communications to the new tower. Robbins stated that the entire system had to be replaced and that everything is up and running again. Board member Ron Deabenderfer asked if there was anything that could be done to prevent such damage in the future, citing a similar incident from a few years ago. Robbins said no.

The next Montgomery County Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 9, on the second floor of the Historic Courthouse in Hillsboro.