The following is a summary of recent news items from the county:
Here’s a newspaper-style summary of recent developments in Adams County:
County Department Wins Budget Award:
For the seventh year running, Adams County’s Budget & Purchasing Department received the Government Finance Officers Association’s Distinguished Budget Award. Officials also earned an additional commendation for improving a section of the budget. Commissioners praised Mellissa Devlin, Phil Swope, and Todd Garrett for their role in enhancing the county’s fiscal process.
Solar Power Goes Live at Human Services Building:
County leaders and staff cut the ribbon on a new rooftop solar array at the Human Services Building. The panels are expected to meet the facility’s power needs and feed surplus energy back to the grid, thanks to monitoring software that tracks output. The project was timed with roof renovations and involved several departments collaborating on design, funding, and legal aspects. Aerial photos show the array’s installation from start to finish.
911 System Outage Investigated:
State officials disclosed preliminary findings from a recent 911 outage affecting multiple counties. The disruption was blamed on a software defect rather than a cyber-attack, and corrective measures are underway. Residents are urged to keep their local ten-digit emergency number accessible in case of future issues.
K-9 Memorial Unveiled:
A granite monument honoring seven law-enforcement canines—representing Adams County, CSX railroad police, and other local departments—was dedicated at the county’s 911 center. Funded by American Bikers On A Mission and organized by Sheriff Jim Muller, the memorial lists names of dogs that served or died in the line of duty and includes space for future additions.
Cadet Fire Academy Graduates 25 New Volunteers:
Amid dwindling volunteer firefighters, 25 teenagers aged 14–17 completed a week-long Cadet Fire Academy at the county’s emergency services complex. Hosted by Fountaindale Fire Department and supported by various volunteer departments, the program immerses cadets in a rigorous academy-style environment with physical training, classroom sessions, and hands-on drills.
County Appeals for 911 Surcharge Extension:
County officials warn that the current $1.95 monthly 911 surcharge will expire on January 31, 2026. They’re calling on state legislators to raise the fee to $2.20 and authorize funding for next-generation 911 systems covering GIS, cybersecurity, and multimedia communications. Without action, counties may need to shift those costs onto property taxpayers.
Featured image: Randy Phiel