ASHLAND — Ashland County commissioners approved $17,515 Thursday in opioid settlement funding for the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office to purchase surveillance cameras.
The sheriff’s office will purchase two portable cameras from Pro Tech Sales. The cameras will support investigations and combat drug trafficking.
Ashland County Sheriff Kurt Schneider said they will use the cameras for a variety of investigations. He said he could not provide specific location information due to the sensitive nature of the cases.
“We can’t be everywhere at once. These cameras are going to be a vital tool for us to keep doing the surveillance and things we need to do to get drugs off the street,” Schneider said.
Schneider thanked the commissioners for their continued support in using funds to address the opioid crisis.
Schneider highlighted the impact biometric watches have on inmates experiencing opioid withdrawals and overdoses. He said they helped with two medical emergencies since being introduced six months ago.
Commissioners approve elevator revamping
Commissioners approved an estimate from Davis and Newcomer Elevator Company for up to $106,750 for the full modernization and repair of the west elevator in a county office building.
The elevator is original to the building. Commissioners said replacement parts are not available, requiring a complete modernization.
Repeated breakdowns between floors over the past year have left staff trapped. Numerous calls were made to the sheriff and fire department for assistance.
“We don’t like to emergency call on the weekend, when some of the staff comes in and they get stuck in between floors. So then the sheriff or the fire department has to come in and get them out,” Commissioner Denny Bittle said.
Commissioner James Justice said their maintenance department will renovate the elevator’s interior. The contractor will complete the mechanicals.
Public transit service agreement approved
Commissioners approved a one-year public transit service agreement for the city of Ashland and Ashland County Job and Family Services.
The agreement runs from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027 which establishes the rates of transit services for the Department of Job and Family Services clients.
Bittle said the service helps clients who do not have reliable transportation travel to destinations like doctor’s appointments.
Mental Health & Recovery Board building repairs approved
Commissioners approved a $75,000 appropriation for the Ashland Mental Health & Recovery Board.
The funding will cover additional building repairs at the board’s facility at 1605 County Road 1095.
