The Butler County commissioners on Wednesday approved lease agreements with the Lutheran Service Society for the use of the Butler Area Rural Transit office and buses.

Under the one-year agreements, which end on June 30, 2008, the society pays $400 a month for the building at the Sunnyview complex in Butler Township and $1 for all 15 buses.

The lease amount includes utilities.

Commissioner Glenn Anderson voted for the agreements, but questioned the arrangement. He pointed out the society pays the leases with county funds since those costs are included in its budget, which is funded by the county.

"I just can't figure out why we contract the bus service out when we pay the bill," Anderson said.

He reminded other county officials the overall set-up for BART will be revisited in 90 days.

BUTLER TWP— Nominations are being accepted for the 2007 Butler County Community College Distinguished Alumni Awards.BC3's alumni association is looking for former students who have made contributions to their professions and communities.Nomination forms and eligibility requirements are available in the alumni section of the college's Web site, www.bc3.edu, or by calling 724-287-8711 Ext. 8235.Nominations are due Aug. 15, and the recipients will be recognized Oct. 20.

MIDDLESEX TWP— Lightning struck a house at 110 Ashmont Drive Tuesday afternoon during a storm, but didn't cause a fire.Assistant fire chief Greg Stegman said the strike made three or four small holes in the roof of the home, which is under construction. A window at the home also broke.It was not known who owns the home.