Pat Thelen, Spink County Coroner, was present at the meeting of the Spink County Commissioners on Tuesday, January 12 to discuss matters concerning the County Burial Fund and to request that Spink County State’s Attorney Vic Fischbach review the policy and provide a clearer definition of qualifiers for that policy. Also present was Theresa Hodges, Deputy Auditor to aid in the discussion.

Thelen reviewed with Commissioners the current policy including the cost the County will pay and recommended an increase in that, taking into account the increase in fees for grave opening, vaults, and snow removal. Hodges and Thelen both discussed understanding of the law based on their interpretations and expressed concern that there be a consistent, clearly defined policy that would eliminate added undue stress on the families of the departed. The matter will reviewed by Fischbach and recommendations returned to the Commissioners.

Spink County Treasurer Kathy Ludwig was also present at the meeting. Commissioners questioned some of the recommendations made regarding County Accounts during an exit interview during the recently completed state audit. All of the Commissioners felt strongly about reducing the amount in the County savings accounts and investing the money in different CD’s, etc. to garner the best yield. Ludwig will evaluate the Commissioners recommendations and prepare a report for the Commissioners on the matter.

The next regular meeting of the County Commissioners is Tuesday, January 26.