UPDATE: Union County Emergency Management Coordinator Paul Ver Meer has just announced a significant cost-saving measure that will save the county $96,000. This crucial development came during a recent meeting, where Ver Meer confirmed that discussions with Creston Waterworks have eliminated the need for a costly new radio tower.
The decision stems from the agreement to utilize Creston’s existing water tower, which also houses the EMA’s radio equipment. Originally, scheduled repainting of the tower in 2026 would have required the expensive temporary removal of this equipment, a process that previously cost Lorimor $69,414. However, Ver Meer’s negotiations with Steve Guthrie, General Manager of Creston Waterworks, yielded a better solution: the contractors will now work around the equipment, avoiding the major expense altogether.
This breakthrough is crucial, especially as Ver Meer highlighted the challenges posed by upcoming budget discussions. Without a budget amendment, the EMA was facing significant difficulties in covering the projected costs. Now, this successful negotiation has lightened the outlook for next year’s budget, which was a key topic during Wednesday’s EMA meeting.
Ver Meer described the upcoming budget as “Jo’s budget,” referring to his predecessor, Jo Duckworth. He outlined plans for a more hands-on approach in future budget management. Notably, the proposed budget includes $10,000 for an emergency reserve fund and $3,000 for a vehicle fund, aimed at preventing surprise expenses in the future.
A budget workshop is scheduled for 4:35 p.m. on December 29 at the EMA building, where these plans will be further discussed.
In other news, the EMA has partnered with Mainstay to provide IT services for an annual fee of $900. Ver Meer, who previously collaborated with Mainstay at the Creston Police Department, endorsed their services. Additionally, the Union County EMA has launched a new Facebook page to keep the community informed about weather-related events, including incoming snowfall.
This proactive approach not only demonstrates effective financial management but also enhances the county’s preparedness for emergencies, ensuring that both residents and officials stay informed and protected.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
