MIFFLINTOWN – Recent events regarding a price reduction of milk premium payments to dairy farms and milk cooperatives prompted the Juniata County Commissioners to acknowledge their concern during Tuesday’s weekly board meeting.

“It’s important that we spotlight a very difficult, and potentially grave, situation that could put many out of business,” Commissioner Mark Partner commented. “Agriculture is the top industry in Juniata County. We need to keep our producers in our thoughts. It’s important to let them know that we are thinking of these folks. We realize this is a state and national issue, but if there’s anything we can speak to or help out with, we’ll be glad to. Who knows, if it’s dairy today, it may be poultry tomorrow. We have a lot of vested interest in agriculture here in Juniata County.”

In other business on Tuesday, the commissioners:

¯ Ratified member appointments to the Juniata County Local Emergency Planning Committee.

¯ Accepted a bid from ComPros Inc. to provide maintenance support to the 911 phone system.

¯ Approved a contract with Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates to provide engineering and architectural services for a potential project for the currently vacant county jail building.

¯ Ratified the following Juniata County Hazardous Materials checks: $570 to New Pig Corporation for the purchase of absorbent materials; and $32 to Wex Bank for the purchase of fuel.

¯ Reminded residents that a delinquent taxpayer notice will be published the week of May 13.

¯ Approved payment of bills in the amount of $163,779.65.