By: Brenna White
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
brenna@thevillagereporter.com
The Williams County Commissioners approved several resolutions during their regular meeting held Tuesday, July 21, 2026, including taking the first step forward in placing a Department of Aging levy and approving the adoption of the county’s first formal AI Usage Policy.
Commissioners Scott Lirot and Bart Westfall were in attendance. The levy action follows a request submitted July 10 by Department of Aging Executive Director Sarah Stubblefield seeking a 1.0-mill levy to replace the department’s current 0.5-mill and 0.1-mill levies.
Approval of this Resolution of Necessity does not place the levy on the ballot. This step authorizes the County Auditor to certify the tax information required under Ohio law.
Once that certification is returned, Commissioners will be able to consider a final resolution placing the levy before voters during the November 3, 2026, General Election.
According to the resolution, the proposed levy would provide funding for senior citizen services while maintaining the department’s vehicles and facilities.
If approved by voters, the levy would be an additional 1.0-mill property tax for a period of five years (2027-2031). Although first levied in tax year 2026, the collections would begin during calendar year 2027.
An AI Usage Policy was submitted by Williams County Information Technology Manager Jeremy Suffel. The policy establishes guidelines for employees’ use of AI technologies.
The policy recognizes AI’s growing role in improving efficiency and public service while maintaining transparency, legal compliance, data security, and responsible implementation.
Commissioners also approved the purchase of a 2021 Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cab for the Williams County Engineer’s Office. The vehicle will be purchased from Charles Moore at a cost not to exceed $28,250.
In additional business, Commissioners approved an amendment to a Local Public Agency Federal Local-Let Project Agreement with the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT).
The amendment is for the planned roundabout at the intersection of County Road G and County Road 13. The total cost now amounts to $4,180,600.
A Precinct Election Official Recruitment and Training Grant Agreement between the Ohio Secretary of State and the Williams County Board of Elections was approved. The grant funds will support recruitment and training efforts for the 2026 General Election.
An addendum to an Ohio Teaching Family Association agreement with Job and Family Services was passed, increasing the total amount to $31,185 due to insufficient funding.
A change order for the North Annex Renovation Project was also passed with some discussion. The change order includes the addition of storefronts and a northeast balcony, as well as some sealant work required by the inspector. The total change order amounts to $161,630, and brings the overall contract to $1,455,099.
The project’s completion date was also extended by 140 days, with a new finish date of October 9, 2026.
Two permits were approved for the usage of the County Courthouse Square. Bud Widmer Rube Band will hold a concert at the bandstands on July 29, 2026. Rich Adams will be hosting a Patriot Day Rally – Honoring God and Country, on October 17, 2026.