VIENNA — FEMA road reimbursement questions, vacant commissioner position and courthouse maintenance were discussed at the Feb. 20 Maries County Commission meeting.

FEMA reimbursement questions involving Road District One storm repairs. Commissioners placed a phone call to FEMA case manager Kevin Haskin during the meeting to clarify discrepancies between documentation previously submitted and what appeared in the FEMA grants portal.

During the call discussion, FEMA determined that some project documentation did not match what had been entered into the damage inventory line items within the required 60-day regulatory deadline. Commissioners explained that documentation had been provided in person to a FEMA representative during the recovery period, but FEMA advised that email submissions provide a verifiable timestamp that can be referenced if questions arise later.

Haskin stated that Road District Two projects were in good standing. However, Road District One required additional documentation, including a formal damage description, dimensions and a general scope of work with cost estimates submitted on county letterhead. Commissioners agreed to compile the requested information and submit it both electronically and in person in the future to prevent similar issues.

Commissioners agreed that moving forward, all materials will be submitted through multiple methods to create redundancy and protect the county’s reimbursement eligibility.

Commissioners also discussed quarterly MULES charges totaling approximately $255 per quarter. The expense has historically been paid through different accounts, and discussion centered on whether reimbursement should come from the prosecuting attorney’s budget or the restitution fund.

Officials explained that interested applicants for the open commissioner position must apply directly through the governor’s website under the boards and commissions vacancy section. The position must be posted by the Governor’s Office before an application can be submitted. Once listed, applicants must complete an online application to be considered for appointment.

Commissioners noted some frustration with communication delays regarding previous submissions to the governor’s office but indicated they would continue monitoring the vacancy listing.

In other business, the commission confirmed that the state is scheduled to inspect the courthouse elevator in April. Discussion also continued regarding an ongoing plumbing issue in a downstairs courthouse bathroom. Commissioners said a sag in an underground sewer line may be causing air entrapment, resulting in water bubbling in a sink when the toilet is flushed. Repairing the issue could require significant excavation beneath a sidewalk and monument area, potentially resulting in substantial expense. Officials said they are evaluating possible solutions.

The commission also confirmed that grappler units recently approved for law enforcement vehicles have been installed and will be added to the county’s insurance coverage.