Scurry County Commissioners July 28, 2008

County Commissioners met on July 28, 2008 at 10am to hear budget requests as they continue working on the 2009 budget. This work session heard from several entities.

Gene from the Golf Course requested an additional full-time employee and to keep up with rising costs involving fuel, grease and maintenance move excess funds from other lines to this expenditure. Chemicals and fertilizer line would remain the same. A John Deer Debris Blower valued at $2,600 would be a valuable asset to crews. Progress at the course continues, water lines have been replaced and work continues on outdated and old irrigation lines and heads. Cooperation between the Green's Committee, Precinct 2 and the commissioners are contributing factors to efforts being made at the course. The improvements have increased activity and interest in the course. Judge Waller responded by saying, "We will consider the requests."

Sheriff Jackson requested a new Basic 12-15 passenger van that can be equipped with a cage to separate male, female prisoners as well as protect the driver. The cage won't be permanent and can be moved from van to van. Sheriff Jackson then questioned the court why his salary increase was based on his base salary 12 years ago. His salary compared to new hires and current EMS director is lower. His request for a salary increase had four key components to be taken into consideration: size of department, responsibility, liability and supervision. Terry Williams responded by saying "that a comparison study of other counties with similar attributes shows Scurry County to be in line." Mr. Williams then stated that "the EMS salary was justified due to the medical training required for that position." Mr. Williams stated, "it would be hard to replace EMS director, but if you resigned, there would be a line for the Sheriff position." In further discussion, how to better use orange and white crews, Sheriff Jackson stated that more certified Precinct Jailers would be beneficial. Jailers would need to understand that they must demand respect from crews and supervision is a must so that the crews would be productive in their assigned tasks. Sheriff Jackson also stated, "certified, licensed, inmates can be utilized quite efficiently by the county when available." (ie plumbers, electricians, carpenters, etc)

Airport discussions pursued ways to decrease the requests for new hangers and repair of the large hanger roof. It was recommended that "carport" type hangers will be sufficient and patching the leaks in the large hanger be done with sealants and caulk.

Until final tax evaluations are complete and the county has a dollar amount to work with for 2009, budget decisions will be put on hold.