Monroe County Board of Commissioners
Monroe County was created by the State Legislature on January 14, 1818. The present Courthouse was dedicated on July 4, 1908 and is located in the center of downtown Bloomington, the county seat. This historic structure is surrounded by immense native trees, and numerous dedicated monuments all within a beautiful park-like setting.
The Monroe County Board of Commissioners have a wide range of executive and administrative authority. Among the most important powers are those related to:
- Auditing and authorizing claims against the county.
- Receiving bids and authorizing contracts.
- Controlling, maintaining, and supervising County property including the Courthouse; the Justice Building, which houses the Courts, the elected officials associated with those courts, and the jail; the Health Services Building; the Highway Garage Facility, the Karst Farm Park, the Flatwoods Park; and the Jackson Creek Park.
- Supervising construction and maintenance of County roads and bridges.
- Exercising appointive powers including both the selection of members to fill positions on boards, commissions, committees, and the appointment of certain department heads.
- Planning and implementing strategies for solid waste handling as members of the Monroe County Solid Waste Management District.
There are several County Departments that are directly under the authority of the Monroe County Commissioners. These departments are: The Building Department, Monroe County Highway Department, Monroe County Technical Services Department, Extension Services, The Legal Department, Veterans' Affairs Department, and The Department of Weights and Measures.
The following departments are directed by boards or commissions whose members are appointed by the Board of Commissioners: The Monroe County Airport, Monroe County Emergency Management Department, The Health Department, Parks and Recreation, and The Planning Department.
