WHEATLAND – Platte County Commissioners authorized an amendment to the general fund budget to the tune of more than $20,000 during their regular meeting Jan. 2.

On a motion by Commissioner Eric Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Sandy Kontour, the general fund budget was increased by $20, 658.13. The funds represent the proceeds of an insurance settlement from the Cincinnati Insurance Company to cover the cost of hail damage to county buildings, Commissioner Steve Shockley said Thursday.

State law allows for increases to be made in governmental general fund budgets. They must be made by resolution and approved by a vote of the governing body.

The new funds were allocated to the courthouse building maintenance line item of the budget.

In other business, Commissioners:

n Heard reports from the county roads department regarding ongoing graveling work on several Platte County roads. The body decided to forego chip-sealing of some county roads this summer in favor of improving gravel roads.

It was also decided to study the possibility of purchasing a new or used loader.

n Approved a request to transfer $79.30 from the Detention-Supplies account to the Uniforms account.

n Approved the Platte County Public Health Community Assistance program. The program will provide one-time-per-year financial assistance to individuals in need, using donated funds.

n Designated the Platte County Record-Times as the official newspaper for Platte County.

n Defeated a motion to authorize a Letter of Agreement with the Wyoming Behavioral Institute in Casper in regards involuntary hospitalizations at a rate of $754 per day.