The Jefferson County Commission met this week for its last regular meeting before the General Election on August 6th, which will seat a majority—or near majority—of new commissioners. The July meeting was also the first meeting of the new fiscal year in Jefferson County, which began on the first day of July. Seventeen members of the body were present for the voting meeting. Absent from Roll Call were Commissioners Norton, Patterson, J. Coleman, and Lowe.

The Agenda, Consent Agenda, Notaries/Bonds, and Mayoral Appointments were all unanimously approved. Following a robust Citizen Comment section, with 14 citizens offering remarks on a variety of issues, County and Capital Fund Budget Amendments were presented. All budget items came with recommendations from the Budget Committee and all found favor with the full body.

Under New Business, Resolution 2026-32 to create a Veteran Advisory Board—moved by Commissioners Blevins/Brooks—failed 6-10-1, following a failed attempt (7-10) to table the item (Huffaker/Thomas) until November for more information (including attorney review) and the seating of the new commission.

With a motion from Brooks/Reed, Assistant Veteran Service Officer (and current acting VSO) Rebecca Easton was hired to fill the open VSO position. An amendment offered by Commissioner Huffaker and accepted by Brooks/Reed ensured her compensation would reflect that role retroactive to July 1st (the date VSO responsibilities were shifted to Easton). Huffaker withdrew an amendment to send the item to the Personnel Committee for review, and Easton was seated 17-0.

Chairman Carmichael relinquished the Chair during discussion of this item to provide details pertinent to the motion and to offer support for Easton. At the request of the commission, Easton addressed the full body regarding her assumption of VSO duties and provided a timeline to the members. Chairman Pro-Tempore Solomon presided over the discussion and vote on this motion, with Carmichael returning to the Chair following the vote.