Blackford County Addresses Internet, Courthouse Mold, Bridge Completion, and Online Permitting

From the Blackford County Commissioners meetings on April 6 and April 20, 2026, and County Council meeting on April 8, 2026

Several county infrastructure and technology projects advanced across three meetings in April.

IT Director Stephen presented a Comcast quote of $2,481.49 per month for all five county locations — approximately $600 per month cheaper than the current Mainstream provider. The Mainstream contract does not expire until approximately April 2027, so Comcast is offering to lock in the price now. A new firewall was being installed at the sheriff's department starting April 21.

At the courthouse, Subzero Solutions was approved for mold remediation in three HVAC duct systems on the third floor (serving circuit court and the IT room) at $2,943.50, plus three iWave air purification units at $650 each. Total cost: $4,893.50. The mold problem was caused by improperly installed diffusers.

Bridge 505 on Spring Street was completed with new guardrails, scour control, and erosion armoring. Road upgrades on 300 East began April 20 with pulverizing and concrete stabilization. The highway department is seeking quotes for a new tandem truck before July emission law changes add $20,000 to the chassis price, which is currently $119,000 from International.

The county also launched online permitting on the county website. Credit card payments are not yet available but are expected within a month.

Additionally, the commissioners approved a $900-per-year maintenance agreement with Tower Clock Company for the courthouse clock, which is over 100 years old.

Source: Video transcripts — Commissioner Meeting 2026-04-06, County Council 2026-04-08, Commissioner Meeting 2026-04-20