OKEECHOBEE — Leah Suarez, executive director of Our Village told the BOCC during the March 27 meeting that they are planning to do another summer camp in Douglas Park this summer. She requested to use the community center without paying a deposit. Commissioner David Hazellief said they could not waive the deposit fee, because it would set a precedent for others who might not be as careful. However, he said they would be getting the deposit back anyway.

Suarez also requested a fee waiver to use the Okeechobee County Civic Center for a luncheon. This request was granted.

Finally, Suarez gave a presentation illustrating the use of the money invested by the county into a peer recovery program. Working with seven recently released inmates, they estimate savings to the county of $112,880. Number of days out of jail multiplied by $85, the average cost to house an inmate in county jail.

Commissioner Terry Burroughs said he appreciates what they are doing and plans to ask the commissioners to increase the amount they give on the next budget.