Founded in 1821, Bartholomew County is located in the southeastern part of the state with Columbus serving as the county seat. Covering 409 square miles, it lies mostly in the level areas surrounding the East Fork of the White River and its tributaries. The county is intersected by Interstate Highway 65 and U.S. Highway 31 which provide transportation for its commerce, along with one rail line that moves millions of tons of freight through the county annually. Agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism make up the majority of the county's economy.
You can report criminal activity to the Sheriff's department via the tip line at 812-379-1712 or by using the Contact Us section and selecting the Sheriff's department as the recipient.
If the road is within city limits, please contact the City Street Department. If the road is outside city limits, report hazards to our County Highway department via phone or the Contact Us, and selecting Highway as the recipient. If the hazard is something that is blocking the road and presenting a danger to other drivers, please call the non-emergency dispatch number, 812-379-1689.
Contact the Assessor's office and notify them so they may update the property record for assessed values.
Contact the Assessor's office and notify them so they may update the property record for assessed values.
The County Engineer is responsible for the overall drainage review for new subdivisions and can be reached at 812-379-1660. The County Surveyor, through the Drainage Board, is responsible for regulated drains that are within Bartholomew County. The County Surveyor and Drainage Board can be reached at 812-379-1525.
Adult Protective Services investigates allegations of abuse, neglect, self-neglect and exploitation involving people 18 years old and older if they are suffering from neurodevelopmental disorder, mental illness, dementia, stroke or anything that involves a person not being capable of caring for themselves. Adult Protective Services currently provides services to the following counties - Bartholomew, Brown, Jennings, Decatur and Jackson. If you would like to report a case of abuse or neglect to Adult Protective Services, please contact their office at 812-379-1670, option 5 or by e-mail through department contact page and someone will contact you as soon as possible.