County Commission Overrides Veto

The full body of the Jefferson County Commission held a called meeting on Monday, May 22, 2017 at the Historic Jefferson County Courthouse. Commission Chairman Carmichael called the meeting to order, and all members of the body were present.

Commissioner David Seal offered the first motion of the evening, moving to override the Mayoral Veto of Resolution 2017-20, which recommended that the Industrial Development Board hold public meetings to receive public input on development projects. He was seconded by Commission Turner, and the motion to override was approved 17-4, with Commissioners Tabor, Tim Seals, Blevins and Eslinger voting in opposition.

Personnel Committee Chair Turner brought the committee recommendation for the office of Veterans Service Officer. The recommendation went to Curtis Hudson to fill the vacancy, who was unanimously confirmed by members of the County Commission.

Finance Committee Chairman McGraw brought several recommendations, most of which were general housekeeping in nature. One action of particular consequence that found favor was the recommendation of the Finance Committee to keep surety bonds in place and consider the option of changing from surety bonds to insurance. Director of Jefferson County Finance Potts informed the Commission that insurance would not have the longevity of coverage after an elected official leaves office, which could be a consideration. The Commission approved the recommendation to leave County employee insurance with the State plan and lowered the threshold amount requiring public advertisement and competitive bidding from $10,000 to $25,000. Also approved was the Jefferson County Debt Policy, which had no changes from the current policy.

By recommendation of the Budget Committee, the Commission approved end of year adjustments to the budget in the form of amendments offered by the Jefferson County Department of Education and Jefferson County, as well as surplus items from the Sheriff’s Department and the Election Commission.

Source: K. Depew, News Director