The Washington County Board met for a regular monthly meeting last night. Under the Highway Department, there were no new resolutions, but there was an update on some roadways. Route 13 and 24 were announced to have shoulder work done, with Route 6 having culvert work done sometime next week. That should last between 2 to 3 days. Also it was announced that weed and spraying will begin sometime in spring. The county reportedly had over $100,000 in claims, with $12,000 coming from one case. Washington County State’s Attorney Daniel Bronke announced that their revenue was up slightly from last month, and that the 2nd chance program started in Washington and Perry County. Washington will have 1 person participating in the drug-rehab program, with 3 people from Perry County participating. The Sheriff also wanted to report that there are currently 15 people in federal prison and 10 people in the county jail. The county treasurer also appeared last night, and she reported that there were 15 buyers of parcels, with over 80 parcels still available. The taxes that were distributed will be announced on a later date. There were also 3 zoning cases that were approved. Adam Newcomb was approved to turn 3 acres of agriculture property to residential R-1. Josh Bevil also got approved to turn 2 acres of land into residential R-1. Donald Mock had an interesting case, where he wanted a special use permit, where he would be allowed to live on agricultural property for 3 years inside a 17-year-old trailer. He stated he plans on building a home, but he wanted board approval to live in a trailer for 3 years, so he can clean up the area. He was approved by a vote of 11-1. The Historical Society also invited the board to attend their presentation and dinner of a plaque dedicated to the John Lively Family Massacre. That is set for April 19th at the Original Springs Restaurant in Okawville. It will cost residents $15-per plate, which are currently for sale at the L&N Depot and the Washington County Museum. Henry Habbe Exivating was approved on a demolition bid for $11,900 for county property. Ron Daniels, who is the Superintendent of Schools, appeared last night and made a couple of announcements. He said that there is an increase of students in truancy and said that his department is focusing on 3 areas. The 1st one is the school funding formula, which used to be based off of attendance, and how it is now going to be spread out to schools based off of 26 factors. Also the increase of teacher shortages throughout the state and how schools are having problems filling roles. The last main point he wanted to make was how school districts are reviewing their emergency plans, with the increase of school violence in our country. The next Washington County Board meeting will be on Tuesday, April 10th.