Wheel Tax & Enforcement Discussion Of Commission Work Session

Monday, April 13, 2015 marked Jefferson County Commission’s April Work Session, which was held in the Historic Jefferson County Courthouse. Topics of discussion and information for the Commission included several resolutions, half of which were general housekeeping, with the remainder being honorary resolutions for Maurice Solomon and the late Martin Dale. The status of the wheel tax resolution was a talking point, with Commissioners expressing concern that enforcement is a top priority in both the Sheriff’s Department and the Clerk’s office. It was noted that the Sheriff’s Department has been actively enforcing the wheel tax and has been visible at several schools and other locations. Sheriff McCoig informed the Commission that a recent sweep at Jefferson County High School found very few in violation of the wheel tax resolution. It was suggested that Jefferson County Department of Education could include proof of wheel tax in their school information packets. The Department of Education also answered questions regarding the mass surplus of computers and informed the Commission that the units in question are around 8 years old and no longer support the needed software.

Under New Business, Commissioner Seal stated that he will bring a motion regarding funding and parameters for the Chamber of Commerce to the voting meeting for consideration. Commissioner Blevins brought the issue of public notices to the Commission in an effort to determine what news outlets will be publishing notices. Commissioner McGraw, who is a partner in WJFC, informed the Commission that the radio station cannot accept payment for notices due to his status as a Commissioner but will gladly report public notices at no charge. The Jefferson County Post stated that, in light of the citizen’s acceptance of recent wheel tax increase and the dire financial situation of the County that will require serious budget cuts, The Post will publish public meeting notices for no charge during the remainder of this fiscal year and for the 2015-2016 fiscal year. Commissioner Huffaker requested information on a sign variance that was issued from the Board of Zoning Appeals and expressed concern for the residents of the area where the sign ( 180 ft ) is to be placed. Inquires were made regarding a way to rescind the action and more information may be available at the voting meeting.