Seneca County Opportunity Center Superintendent Lew Hurst announced Tuesday afternoon that Seneca County was recognized in the Columbus Dispatch for its Steps Toward Independence and Responsibility program.
STIRS goals for participants include teaching younger children in classes, speaking in public schools about bullying and speaking to community groups as a self-advocate.
Human Resource Director Janet Vay updated Seneca County Board of Developmental Disabilities on the progress of the staff's participation in their wellness program. One hundred eight employees are involved in numerous tests and collected data, revealing most fell in the typical to good range, while diabetes related issues are more serious. They have learned most problems are avoidable through diet and exercise. The employee advisory committee is determining what should be done. Employees are forming a wellness team and will figure out how to approach the issues, laying out a plan and communicating it to the employees.
Business Manager Dick Williams reported on a project the state business managers' association has been working on with the DODD in regard to the reconciliation of the 2007 cost reports. Based on calculations, county boards across the state should receive more than $11 million if Job and Family Services approves the methodology. Seneca County's share would be $93,829.
Williams is to attend a summer conference in Newark July 12-13.
After a short executive session, board members approved employee contracts recommended by the personnel committee of Cynthia Morrison, Ron Davidson and Rick Gagnon.
In other business, the board:
Approved the purchase of Zonar's Electronic Vehicle Inspection Reporting System, GPS and Vehicle Diagnostic Systems for the bus fleet at a cost of $24,000.
Approved applying for a grant not to exceed $10,000 from the Ottawa-Sandusky-Seneca Joint Solid Waste Management District to purchase recycling containers for Opportunity Park, a shed for the grill, a cabinet for garden tools and small signs for Opportunity Park. All materials used must made of 25 percent recycled materials. If awarded, the Opportunity Center will be responsible for 20 percent in matching funds, or $2,000.
Approved participation in the special education part B-IDEA grant for fiscal year 2012-13 which provides $32,413.09 for two classroom aides.
Approved the 2012-13 annual agreement with Seneca Re-Ad Industries Inc.
Approved employee benefit changes. Those below their salary range are to receive a 3 percent increase while those earning above their salary range will get a 3 percent cash bonus. Salary adjustments are effective July 2 for 12-month employees and Aug. 13 for nine-month employees.
Heard Hurst read thank-you letters from Patrick Steyer and Marta Zaleha for their participation in Leadership Seneca County.
Reviewed three board policies.
Recognized Tiffin Elks for a $7,000 donation to assist with the Unity Conference, Opportunity Park expenses and Special Olympics.
The 169 Board meets next at 5 p.m. July 10.
