The county road (G6W) east of Havre, an unincorporated town in Washington County, will be widened.

The Board of Supervisors approved eight public highway easement resolutions November 3 for areas in Crawford and Oregon Townships. The move provides for grading and widening the roadway, a project outlined by the County Engineer’s office.

The board also approved an agreement between the Department of Transportation and the County to permit the County to use federal funds for construction of the new bridge on W38 (Gingko Ave.) The agreement is part of the Highway Bridge Replacement and Rehabilitation Program.

In other business, the board:

•received a request to have the county install a dropbox to permit residents to leave notes and letters for the supervisors, other than using the mail. The move, urged by County Treasurer Jeffrey Garrett, was cited as “more convenient for the public.” The board tabled action by a 2-1 vote pending more information from Garrett.

•approved four resolutions for tax abatements for buildings on leased land. In all cases, the buildings were moved some time ago. Abatements ranged from $39 to $79.

•hired Deborah Simmering for the Washington County Auditor’s Office, replacing Shirley Steele who is retiring. Salary is $21,693.60 and Simmering will start November 15.

•approved installation of a light on the west side of the courthouse, something sought by County Auditor Wendy Heck.

•approved hiring Mike Hanson as full-time jailer for the Washington County Sheriff’s Department for $9.16 per hour.

•accepted the resignations of Major Jack Dillon, Washington County Sheriff’s Department, and Sergeant Gary Redlinger, both effective December 31. Both are retiring.