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Newspaper
Van Wert Times
Location
Van Wert, Ohio, United States of America
Date
Mar 26, 1886
Page
3
Annual report notes Wiltshire bridge over St Marys river cost 4953.70, funded by tax near one dollar per capitas. Bridge built amid high outlay for bridges, duplicating a nearby structure and serving little discernible purpose, prompting criticism of prudent economy and local timing.
A critical report targets Delphos Courant for high ad costs and cites Section 4307 on required newspaper publication. It condemns misused public funds, tax burdens, and lax separation of county funds, urging economical, rules-based administration and bid processes to save money and ensure funds are spent for specified purposes only.
Van Wert County auditors reveal alleged improper ten percent fees on costs paid by the state, question legality of prosecuting attorney compensation, and detail irregular bond sales and commissions. Report critiques county finances, bond premiums, and suspected overpayments affecting taxpayers.
A review complains the report is incorrect and incomplete. It notes many vouchers over three hundred dollars are missing, lacks land descriptions, and fails itemization as required. Specific errors include stationery totals and differing voucher amounts for printing postage criminal prosecutions and livery hire.
The County Board has power to curb expenses but faces scrutiny over compensation for commissioners. Law allows $3 daily for official travel, five cents per mile, and actual necessary expenses, but excludes railroad fare and buggy hire covered by mileage. Attorney General Lawrence clarifies mileage should cover conveyance costs.
The passage notes widespread price declines affecting farmers, manufacturers, tradesmen, and labor. It condemns county officials for raising salaries amid a shrinking treasury and tax burdens, citing the County Commissioners approving bills but not their own and the Prosecuting Attorney serving as legal adviser while part of salary approvals.
A dissenting note from Hororauche Six contesting the majority report on Van Wert County affairs. The speaker argues the majority’s findings are untrue or misrepresented, claims access to the full report was denied until after it reached the Auditor, and condemns withholding information, urging proper statutory handling and public accountability.
The report analyzes the 1884 valuation of real and personal property, noting a nine mill levy and total taxes and assessments of 236 733.50 on the general duplicate. Ditch assessments amounting to 40 968.62 are excluded from the general tax base, and 31 642.82 in delinquent taxes from prior years are also set aside.
A discussion on special levies for specific funds outlines statutory requirements for tax collection and fund separation. The Auditor must ascertain net amounts and maintain records with warrants naming funds, while the Treasurer keeps funds segregated. The note defends the integrity of both officials amid scrutiny, stressing their joint guarding of county finances. Continued on eighth page.
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