At the request of City Administrator Charles Tryban, Saline County Commissioners approved use of the courthouse lawn and driveway for the annual band concert series beginning May 29 and ending in August at their regular meeting Wednesday, May 14.

In other business, the commission unanimously voted to decline the offer of a loan of $30,000 from Missouri Department of Natural Resources' low-interest loan program. Presiding Commissioner Becky Plattner said commissioners were in agreement that the loan, specifically for improvement of courthouse lighting, was not a good investment at the offered rates and repayment schedule.

"Bill Sleeper, our custodian, has already implemented many of the changes," she added.

Courthouse renovation, approved by voters in the April election, will address many of the same issues the loan program would have addressed.

Commissioners also approved the sale of a property at 1420 S. Olson Ave. to Jeff Michaels. Michaels will pay back taxes and fees in the amount of $1,949.62.

Saline County Sheriff Wally George was congratulated by commissioners for his recognition by the 40 & 8 organization as Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.

Contact Kathy Fairchild at marshallhealth@socket.net