Staff writer

County commissioners granted a lot split to a rural Peabody couple who lost their home in a Jan. 10 fire to clear the way so they can obtain financing to build a new home.

Eric and Clarissa Dutton’s property was originally zoned for agricultural use, and the lot split was required for financing purposes, planning and zoning director Emma Tajchman told commissioners. The lot split divides property on Indigo Rd. between 80th and 90th Rds.

EMS could find itself in need of a new Hillsboro ambulance if a malfunctioning circuit board cannot be repaired.

EMS director Ed Debesis and county commissioners discussed options for possible ways to purchase a new ambulance. No action was taken on the matter at Tuesday’s meeting.

Commissioners also reviewed pay and salary increase schedules for the road supervisor and bridge and culvert supervisor positions and voted to pay the two positions on the same pay scale. Road and bridge superintendent Jesse Hamm wanted to eliminate the difference between the two positions before hiring someone to fill the empty road supervisor job.

The county’s Blue Cross Blue Shield health insurance will see a 31 percent rate hike in May if commissioners continue the same plans. As of now, county employees choose from two options.

Option one has a $500 deductible. Single coverage costs $571.69 with the employee paying $19.33. Family coverage costs $1,316 with the employee paying $663.73.

Option two has a $1,000 deductible. Single coverage costs $552.36 with the employee paying nothing. Family coverage costs $1,271.36 with the employee paying $619.

Commissioners will ponder whether to change plans, increase employees’ share, or absorb the increase, but made no decisions Tuesday.