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NEW CUMBERLAND -- The Hancock County Commission agreed Thursday to apply for a grant aimed at assisting the county to preserve many of its vital records.
The application for the 2024-25 Records Management and Preservation Board Grant came at the request of County Clerk Karan Valenti.
"There are a few things we still need to do," Valenti said, noting efforts over the years by the county to maintain the county's records. "This will help us a lot."
According to a letter from Valenti requesting authorization to apply for the grant, recipients must provide at least a 10 percent match for each dollar expended, with grant funds awarded on a reimbursement basis.
Valenti has noted three purposes for the grant, if it is awarded, including purchasing a new Plat map cabinet as the county's current cabinet is at capacity.
Funding also would be available to scan birth, death, marriage, probate appointment books and probate files, digitally preserving records and allowing improved access to the public.
Valenti also would like to replace two computers in the county's records room, which will be for public use.
Commissioner Eron Chek wished Valenti luck in obtaining the grant.
In other business, commissioners approved:
• The renewal of the Vision Benefits American Insurance contact, which Valenti noted was remaining with the same rate.
• Accepted and approved an order rejecting claims in the Estate of Garry Ronald Upright.
The commission also heard from Anna Raines, representing the Hancock County Senior Center, who provided an update on some of the services provided to the county's senior citizens.
Raines expressed appreciation to Hancock County Schools for a recent agreement which provides leftover food to the center.
"We are picking up the leftover lunches from the middle school and high school and using them the next day," Raines explained. "It's been a big help."
Raines also said the center is planning a variety of activities in the coming months.