36th Annual Darke County Engineer’s Annual Report for 2013
By James P. Surber P.E., P.S.
Darke County Engineer

The purpose of this report has always been to show the tax money received, exactly how it was spent, and what was accomplished. Our challenge to maintain the large road mileage and large number of bridges in Darke County was further magnified this year as we were forced to assume an additional 2.15 miles of road and another bridge on the former State Route 242. This became a County obligation by action of the Darke County Commissioners, who provided no revenue for the additional maintenance and upkeep.

The department constantly faces increasing costs with static revenues. The annual fuel tax and license receipts, received from the state in 2013, were virtually equal to the amount received in 2006; while the costs of road paving and bridge materials have increased 30%-55% over the same period.

We spend as much as possible on renewing and preserving pavement surfaces, replacing culverts, building and rehabilitating bridges, and making sign and safety improvements along with normal maintenance.

Spending in 2013 was reduced by $282,764.70, to an amount $174,491.78, or 3.3%, below total receipts. We spent 40 cents of each tax dollar for road and bridge improvements, 9 cents for maintenance materials, 10 cents for overhead, 4 cents for equipment purchase, and 37 cents for wages and fringe benefits. These costs are all detailed later in this report. Readers are encouraged to contact us with any questions or comments. Phone: 937-547-7375 or email: dce@earthlink.net

Read the complete report here