The Selma Times-Journal

Slowly but surely, plans for the construction of a maintenance shop at the Dallas County Jail are underway.

Sheriff Harris Huffman Jr. addressed the county commission during its regular meeting Monday afternoon. Huffman said the next step in the construction process is drawing up a contract and bidding it out to contractors. The commission unanimously approved to go forward with the project.

In other business:

Commissioner Kim Ballard reported the Dallas County Health Department has a “major” roofing problem. When inclement weather strikes, rain seeps into the building and causes temporary power outages. Ballard said employees make use of their trashcans to catch the water.

“It’s something we’re going to have to take some action on really quick,” Ballard said.

Ballard said the cost of the roof repair is roughly $50,000 to $60,000.

Approved budget amendments for the month of March.

Approved the payment of legal fees in the amount of $205.50 to Wilson, Keller and Associates for representation in the matter of the Subpart v. Crude Oil Refund proceedings. The payment was made in order to receive a refund of $1,320 from the U.S. Department of Energy, said County Financial Director Nancy Wilson.

Approved request to declare county vehicles as surplus property and approve disposition through the web site www.govauctions.us via execution of a contract.

Approved an existing Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) standard agreement presented by County Engineer George Jones.

Approved the purchase of one used diesel flatbed truck at $13,000. Jones made the request.

County EMA Director Brett Howard reported he met with representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to discuss the construction of a shelter in the Tipton community. Howard said EMA will send letters to area concrete companies asking for donations. Approximately 80 yards of concrete is needed for the project.