County Commission Holds Last Regular Meeting of 2017
Two resolutions that would have changed the approach to economic development in Jefferson County failed to find favor with the Jefferson County Commission when they met for their regular voting meeting last week. Resolution 2017-51 and Resolution 2017-52, which addressed Chamber of Commerce Accountability for open records and restructuring the hierarchy of economic development respectively, were both moved to the floor for vote by Commissioner David Seal, and both were 2nd by Commissioner Solomon. Resolution 2017-51 failed in a 11-5 vote, and 2017-52 failed 12-4.
Two resolutions did get the nod of approval from the full body. Resolution 2017-50, which amended a previous resolution dealing with TCRS Hybrid Benefit Plan, and Resolution 2017-53, which addressed a three year general obligation interfund loan capital outlay note not to exceed $710,200 for the landfill, both passed. The landfill resolution did have some opposition with four Commissioners (Tabor, Bales, Scarlett, and Carmichael) voting no and Commissioner Gaut abstaining. In discussion, opposition appeared to be more concerned with new fee policies recently approved by the Sanitation Commission than the capital outlay note, which was a recommendation of the Jefferson County Finance Committee. Several Budget Amendments were presented by Budget Chair Scarlett on the recommendation of the Budget Committee, and all found approval. Also approved was the Jefferson County Commission Regular Schedule for 2018 and, on the motion of Seal/Solomon, a referral to the Public Service Committee to address recent citizen complaints regarding the need for a Noise Resolution.
In other business, several citizens addressed the County Commission on issues of concern, including the noise at “The Farm” in White Pine, the EDA funding, and Parrotts Chapel, as well as an introduction from one judicial candidate. Jefferson County Mayor Palmieri made recommendations for committee placements, which were approved, and notaries and bonds applicants were approved.
The Jefferson County Commission will not have a regular meeting, nor will they have a work session, in December. Meetings will resume for the full body in January 2018.
