Following the addition of the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office contract to the agenda last Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2023 Eureka city officials proceeded with their year-end meeting.
The only change reflected with the contract was the budgeted increase in payment to the Sheriff’s Office, in the amount of $20,000. Officials shared during this time that the $20,000 increase had been proposed for consideration following the receipt of a request for an additional $60,000 from the Sheriff’s Office. After councilman Jeff Marks posed questions, it was noted that this figure had been reached in consideration of inflation. Sheriff Heath Samuels was present to answer any questions as the subject was discussed. Members of the council voted to approve the 2024 contract in a 5-1 decision, Marks voting no. In concerns voiced during conversation over the contract, Marks noted that this was a large increase. He added that county taxes are paid and police protection would be received if this were not allocated and noted that this was something he hears frustration over. In regards to this, Samuels commented that the city’s budgeted dollars afford for officer presence for the early morning hours/3 a.m. shift, rather than an on-call individual, and results in a reduced response time. Samuels explained that with or without the contract, 911 calls would be taken and responded to, but without the additional funds there would not be the added 24/7 coverage. As the budget was discussed, Samuels also noted that this number has historically stayed fairly consistent, commenting that little increase had been seen since 2016.
With changes in the municipal court, such as the noted transition to a full-time office at Memorial Hall, it was noted that supplies/office equipment were needed. This included the purchase of a printer for the office. Council members approved the purchase of needed items through court diversion funds.
Marks voiced concerns and discussed the need for improved communication between city staff and the council. It was noted by staff during this time that work to improve this has resulted in progress. Marks noted the need for continued improvement.
Council members voted to approve the consent agenda. This included the following items: Minutes of the Dec. 11, 2023 meeting and minutes of the following special meetings: Dec. 8, 15 and 18, 2023. Also approved under the consent agenda was the scheduled claims list for expenses due through Dec. 27, 2023 in the amount of $74,074.69.
Cereal Malt Beverage license renewals were approved for Pizza Hut and Family Dollar.
A 15-minute executive session was held for discussion of legal matters. This included the City Attorney and members of the council. After an additional 10-minutes for the same subject and the return to regular session, no action was taken.
A 15-minute executive session for the subject of non-elected personnel was held and included just the council. Following the session, no action was taken.
The Eureka City Council will hold their first regular meeting of 2024 on Monday, Jan. 8 at 7 p.m.
