UPDATE: In a swift and decisive meeting, Jake Hackman has officially retained his position as chairman of the Chickasaw County Board of Supervisors for the upcoming term. The board convened on Friday morning, lasting just 30 minutes, but the implications of this leadership decision are significant for the county’s governance in 2026.
Hackman, who previously chaired the board from 2018 to 2020 before returning last year, was the sole nominee for the chairmanship. He secured his position with a 4-1 vote, with Steve Breitbach casting the only dissenting vote. Scott Cerwinske remains in his role as vice-chair after a closely contested 3-2 vote against fellow board member Carter.
While the meeting was brief, it addressed critical updates affecting county operations. Notably, Cerwinske will step down from the Cedar Lake Improvement Council, which is set to disband in 2025. Additionally, the board made adjustments to the county’s reimbursement policies. Mileage rates will increase from 70 cents to 72.5 cents per mile, aligning with Internal Revenue Service guidelines. Furthermore, employees traveling outside the county will now be eligible for meal reimbursements of up to $50 per day, provided they are away for more than four hours.
The board’s focus will soon shift to budget preparations, as they gear up to tackle the county’s 2026-27 budget. Presenting their financial proposals to the supervisors will be the county attorney, sheriff, auditor, medical examiner, and the board itself. According to state law, all departments must submit their budgets by January 15, ensuring a busy start to the new year for the supervisors.
As the Chickasaw County Board of Supervisors prepares for the challenges ahead, the community watches closely. Hackman’s leadership will be pivotal in navigating budgetary constraints and ensuring effective governance in the coming year. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.