Marshall County Highway Department in good financial shape despite busy winter

The Marshall County Council's Highway Subcommittee provided members with an update Monday on department operations, budget status, and material supplies following a busy winter season.

Subcommittee chairman Brandon Schadek, along with members Jim Masterson and Greg Compton, reported that the Highway Department has been extremely busy dealing with snow and cold weather over the past couple of months.

"The subcommittee hasn't met in person because it's been a busy couple of months for the Highway Department, although they have been in contact through email," Schadek said.

Highway Superintendent Jason Peters has been actively working alongside his employees, operating a plow truck during the demanding winter conditions. Schadek noted that once the weather improves, regular in-person subcommittee meetings with Peters will resume.

Due to the significant amount of overtime hours accumulated during the challenging winter weather, the Highway Department will request an additional appropriation for overtime funding at next month's council meeting.

Despite the active winter season, Schadek reported that salt supplies remain adequate for the remainder of the year.  "The easy winters the past two years have allowed us to accumulate enough salt that Jason believes we should be good for the rest of the year," Schadek explained.

Peters has also identified several locations where the county could purchase additional material if needed.

Council President Tim Harman reported positive fiscal news for the Highway Department. The combined cash balance actually increased from $2.82 million at the end of December to $2.9 million in February, "So they are sitting pretty good going forward," Harman said.

Schadek reminded council members that Marshall County was not awarded a Community Crossing Matching Grant this year. As a result, Peters is developing the 2026 Road Plan without the additional funding the grant has provided over the last several years.

The loss of grant funding will require the Highway Department to prioritize projects differently and work within existing budget constraints.

Councilman Masterson addressed public concerns about potholes throughout the county, acknowledging the challenge of addressing all road maintenance needs with limited personnel.  "We only have so many man-hours and people to spread around," Masterson said. "With over 900 miles of roadway in the county, it is tough to get to everything right away."

Council President Harman said the County Highway Department maintains just over 900 miles of roadway, while INDOT (Indiana Department of Transportation) maintains approximately 180 miles and the City of Plymouth maintains 57 miles.