Following a short delay due to weather, Greenwood County Commissioners convened on Monday, Jan. 22 and discussed regular business.
Following a 15-minute executive session for personnel, requested by Appraiser’s Office employee Shawna Griffitts, Commissioners shared that they would be looking to terminate the contract with the current appraiser. It was announced that Griffitts had received appraiser’s certification. Commissioners voted to terminate the contract with current appraiser Steve Thompson as early as permissible under the contract terms.
Road and Bridge Superintendent John Schouten provided his weekly report. Schouten told commissioners that salt had been received Monday morning and Road and Bridge was waiting on a load of sand anticipated for receipt later Monday.
EMS Director Brian Mongeau reported that all ambulance units are back in service. After noting that he is still working to get a bid for a new build, Mongeau presented a quote for a new Chevy Tahoe to replace the vehicle he currently utilizes for the amount of $51,500. This total excludes the cost associated with upfitting. Mongeau shared intentions of putting the new style radios in the vehicle. It was noted at this time that EMS and Fire do not have the same mandate currently that law enforcement has, but it is anticipated in the future. Sheriff Heath Samuels noted that quotes for 2024 Tahoes came in at $61,000.
During discussion, the old Tahoe being maintained for use elsewhere in the county was noted. Commissioners approved the purchase of a 2023 Tahoe, 3-2 with Commissioners Paul Hodge and Mac Obourn voting opposed.
As discussion unfolded, Mongeau told commissioners that they are looking into a grant to aid in the purchase of radios for emergency services.
Register of Deeds Marsha Ramsey voiced concerns in regards to the notification process in the event of needed closure/ delayed opening of the courthouse. Conversation ensued with Emergency Management Director Levi Vinson, who discussed utilizing the Genasys Emergency Alert System. Vinson told commissioners that a notice can be sent through the alert system to cell phones for employees. Vinson suggested adding sign-up to Genasys alerts to new employee packets. He also noted that the list would need to be updated to reflect current employees. Commissioners voted to approve delegating notification of courthouse closures to Emergency Management.
Following a 5-minute break, a petition for closure of a portion of 60th Street was presented. Previously, other area property owners also expressed interest in closure of this section of road. It was noted that, following the last interest expressed, commissioners decided not to close this at that time. Viewing of the road is slated for Monday, Feb. 12.
An executive session for legal for the duration of 5-minutes was held. Following the session, no decisions were made.
A 15-minute executive session for legal with Legal Counsel Paul Dean and Vinson was held. Following the session, no decisions were made.
An executive session for 15-minutes with Dean and Schouten was held. Following the session, no decisions were made.
A series of executive sessions were held, each for the subject of legal, with members of the Road and Bridge staff. No action was taken following the session.
Sheriff Samuels presented forms for an employee’s maternity leave.
Payables in the amount $234,786.90 were approved.
Special Payables in the amount of $6,070.83 were approved.
Payroll $146,551.08 was approved.
Minutes of the Jan. 15 meeting were approved as written.
The next meeting of the Greenwood County Commissioners will be held on Monday, Jan. 29.
