From left, Kosciusko County Commissioner President Bob Conley and Commissioner Vice President Cary Groninger during a July 20 county commissioners meeting. InkFreeNews photo by Lasca Randels.

By Lasca Randels
InkFreeNews

WARSAW — County Area Planning Department Assistant Planner Matt Sandy presented a daycare zoning ordinance Tuesday morning, July 20, at the Kosciusko County Commissioners meeting. Sandy said the plan commission was approached by the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce about the need for daycare services throughout the county.

But the longtime requirement that stipulates operators of home occupations live in the same building where the business operates had limited the opportunities for childcare operators.

“In this case, they wanted to see if we would open the door to allow for a business owner-operator to purchase a home, not live in the home but use it as a daycare,” Sandy said.

Parameters have been set, including parking requirements and a limit of 16 children per residential structure.

Most zoning districts would require approval from the board of zoning appeals in order to give neighbors a chance to oppose the plans.

Sandy said the plan commission unanimously approved the recommendation.

The commissioners approved the change with a 3-0 vote.

Kosciusko Sheriff Kyle Dukes showing a vest capable of stopping pistol and rifle rounds. InkFreeNews photo by Lasca Randels.

In another matter, 2022 non-profit budget recommendations were announced.

Commissioner Brad Jackson said it was great that almost all of the nonprofits were able to “hold the line” on budget requests, with Commissioner President Bob Conley noting this came despite several nonprofits losing United Way funding.

Jackson recommended approving all requests as presented, with the exception of the $45 increase requested by St. Joe River Basin. The recommendation was approved.

In other news:

• Kosciusko Sheriff Kyle Dukes presented a commissary report. Some of those items included the purchase of new body armor that is able to stop pistol and rifle rounds for merit and reserve deputies and front office administration in the amount of $4,562.44; body cams and software for $19,145; and new work stations for $10,542.20. Dukes also gave an update on Camp HERO, announcing that 115 participants attended this year.
• A petition by Michael Irving to vacate a public way on EMS D15 Lane in Turkey Creek Township was approved.
• Funds from the American Rescue Plan will be used to assist with the county’s safety communication tower project in order to minimize impact to the county budget.
• The next regular meeting will be 9 a.m. Aug. 3.