(ANGOLA) - While casino referendum action drew much of the attention during Wednesday morning's Steuben County Commissioners meeting, county officials also discussed emergency response expansion, road infrastructure projects, workforce development programs, and county technology upgrades.
County Pursuing Tactical EMS Grant
Commissioners approved a request allowing county officials to pursue a nearly $23,000 grant aimed at helping establish a specialized EMS response team in Steuben County.
Officials said the funding would help pay for specialized equipment, supplies, and tactical emergency casualty care training for EMS personnel working alongside first responders during high-risk incidents.
County officials said the long-term effort could eventually include dive response capabilities.
The grant would not require a local funding match.
Highway Department Gives Construction, Traffic Updates
County highway officials updated commissioners on several ongoing construction and infrastructure projects across Steuben County.
Officials said utility relocation work continues on the county's roundabout project, while right-of-way acquisition work continues on the Pokagon corridor project.
The county has also started its 2026 road program, including joint repair work on County Road 200 West and spring road striping operations.
Commissioners additionally advanced a proposed ordinance lowering the speed limit to 35 miles per hour along portions of County Road 475 South and 1000 West after a traffic study cited curves, restricted visibility, and nearby structures.
Highway officials also discussed possible future software upgrades designed to improve fleet management, road condition tracking, and citizen reporting tools connected to the county website.
Easterseals Highlights Workforce Training Programs
Representatives from Easterseals Northeast Indiana presented a 2027 funding request tied to workforce readiness and employment services in Steuben County.
Officials highlighted job coaching services, digital literacy training, virtual reality job simulations, and partnerships connected to Trine University workforce initiatives.
Easterseals officials said the programs are designed to help individuals with disabilities prepare for and maintain employment while building workforce skills and experience.
Other Actions
Commissioners also:
- Approved repairs to emergency warning sirens in the Clear Lake and Silver Lake areas
- Heard updates involving the Ben Lakes Regional Waste District and Fremont Cemetery matters
- Approved a travel-only credit card for the Steuben County Health Department