Montgomery County Council - Regular Meeting

Joyce, you take your time to the flag of the stands. God, justice for all. Good morning. Now that I have the gentleman in charge telling me what to do, we'll get along just fine. I would like um to remind everybody that this month we are live on YouTube. And so in order to um make ourselves known, we'll need to introduce ourselves when we come to the mic. And so you can just tell your name and where uh what you represent. Um we're going to go around. We're going to do it once for the people at the table here. So Brett, we'll start with you. Just name and your council member. Brett Kading, councilman for Walnut and Clark area. Matt Nelson, District 2, so Southwest Montgomery County. Mike Warren at large. Gary Booth at Councilman at large. Joyce Grimble, District 1. Dan Taylor, the council attorney. Tom Klein, county administrator. Mindy Buyers, county auditor. Okay, thank you all.

On the agenda, it we have the consent agenda. We have the minutes, the series transfers, and the cash balance report. Do I have a motion to accept that agenda? Motion to approve. Second. It's been moved and seconded that we accept the consent agenda. All of those in favor, please say I. I. Oppose. The same sign. Motion carries. Are there any public comments on the agenda items to be discussed today? If not, we'll move right on into money matters. Excuse me. Our first one up is Miss Andrea. Good morning. Andrea Geel, chief probation officer for McGomery County. I have two new grants coming up. So, the first line is in regards to the local coordinating council. It's an ongoing grant we ask for each year. Um there are many grants thrown in there and this is money that the county receives based on uh fines and fees that are paid associated with u drugrelated arrests. And so that money for that and then the second is a new grant. It's the juvenile incentives and treatment grant and that is awarded through the community foundation and it's likely going to be a one-time grant from that standpoint. But we're going to be able to get two additional individuals trained in the prime for life program. That's a drug and alcohol education program. It's going to be offered specifically for juveniles. We currently offer it for adults and 17-year-old juveniles. Um, and then also in regards to the moral recognition therapy, we're going to be able to train one new facilitator for that program that we currently offer. So, that takes care of all of them that you have listed here. Correct. Yes. Are there any questions for Andrea? Correct. So exactly what are we doing? It says

that there's I'm thinking we take grant money coming in put it into a fund. We approve that but the funds to be determined. So I don't believe that this went through the it was it hasn't been assigned yet. How's that? Yes. Just remember appropriation is authority to spend money. So when the probation department receives a grant, they apply for a grant, they receive a grant, they notify the commissioners, the commissioners create a fund, but the money has not been appropriated by you yet. It was not part of your budget because it hadn't been received. And so when grants come in, you're required to appropriate it so that the money can be spent. And appropriation is merely authority to spend money. So she has the money now, but it was not in the 2025 budget. So it has to be placed in the budget so that she can spend it. Is there a motion? So move second. It's been moved and seconded that we accept the grant money for the probation department. And all those in favor, please signify by saying I. I. As opposed the same. Motion carries. Thank you. Do you want to say something, Brian, about this public defender one? Morning. I'm Brian Donaldson, the chief public defender, Montgomery County. Um, yeah. What we're doing there is a little misleading. We're not going to pay the intern $73,000. Uh that that money's already been appropriated. It's in the the supplemental public defender fund and the states indicated to us that we need

to move that from the supplemental fund into the general fund like we've talked about. So the money is already there. Uh and if you look later on in the agenda, there's a request to move it out of that fund. So we're moving it from just moving it from supplemental to the general and we're going to pay the intern out of that. And then also I have hired u filled my fourth full-time position. So the remainder uh of the year will be that her salary will be paid out of that line item also. Any questions for Brian? Yeah. You you were making contracts and now you're going to have four defenders. We'll have at the end of the month have four fulltime. We still have some contracts too, right? That's what I was wondering. Is that going to is there enough funding to do all that? Right now there is. Yes. Okay. And I but we got to increase that for next next year's budget, but later on the year you'll be okay. Also, right? Okay. Just to be clear on on what Brian's doing, we're doing a reduction in his supplemental fund and then we're doing an appropriation into the general fund. it's not really transferring because you can't transfer between funds. So, just to have full picture of what's going on there. The other thing, Brian, did you just say you're going to pay a full-time employee out of that line as well? That's my hope. Yes. Okay. We need two lines, one for each of So, we'll be transferring some of that at the next meeting. Move some of that money into the next Yep. in different line. That's Yep. whatever we need to do to get them both paid because the intern our intern ends uh in a month so we only need to pay him for another month out of that second. It's been moved and seconded that we approve the um intern move of money for or the public defender money. All those in favor say I.

Oppose the same sign. Motion carrying. Thank you. Sandre. Good morning. Sandre Sixberry, County Clerk. And uh today I'm just asking us to uh if we can move some of the money out of the perpetuation fund to fund the part-time scanner that you guys so graciously approved in April. Um that's all I need for the moment. That's right. We did approve that. It's been moved and seconded that we appropriate the 20,000. All those in favor say I. Opposed. Motion carry. Thank you. Thank you. Morning. Sherry Mley, McGomery County assessor. Uh I'm here this morning. We approved later in the year after budgets were approved for 25 um some additional services on my Eagle View contract. So I need the additional funs to for my portion of the bill this year. We split that bill between all the offices that use it and the city pays a portion, but I because I wanted those additional services, I'm paying for that out of my the additional out of my sales disclosure fund. And what exactly does that do? Those are our aerials where they fly over the county and we there are different levels of resolution that you can get. And so we We wanted an additional we wanted better resolution so we can do more desktop assessing. Um you can get much clearer and oblique photography is where you can kind of see down the side of the structure so we can do more from our desk and less from the field. It's very very helpful. So going forward technology is great.

It is. It is when it works. Any questions? It's been moved and seconded that we approve the assessor's uh ask. All those in favor say I. Oppose the same sign. Thank you. Thank you. Good morning. Good morning. I'm going to try to give you the short version on this. Um in theory I need $3,800. Um part of this was when Sergeant Jenkins retired. Um, and now we have Captain Hughes retiring um, next Wednesday. Um, so we began the promotional process last fall um, for two sergeants and one captain. Um, those take months to do. Um, those positions have been filled. We started both sergeants in January. Um, so they've been supervising since January. When Captain Hughes retires next week, Sergeant Watson will become the new captain. Um, and there are several transfers. There's four on the next page. Um, some of that a lot of that money was made up when Sergeant Jenkins retired. He was a 25 year supervisor. We hired a brand new guy. We had a lot of money left over um to fill those first sergeants um positions and a lot of captain Watson's pay. Um but we're going to be $3,800 short. Um it's either that or have Jake wait like two more months um to begin captain duties, which isn't like super practical for us. Um so I would like to ask for that additional money so we can start him immediately upon Captain retirement questions. Sounds like a safety issue. We don't want to leave that position empty,

right? It's a it's an administrative um it's a heavy administrative issue. Um that that certainly could be a safety issue. I I don't want to paint the wrong picture. Um administratively um you know, Captain Hughes is in charge of all all of patrol um that Sergeant Watson's going to assume control of. So, um, it certainly could be, um, but but certainly from the administrative side, it is a very valuable position. I'm feeling very old this morning because, um, Captain Hughes was in my class at North McGomery. He graduated in 1994. So, we are feeling old this morning. So, I'll I'll jump in there with you. Yeah. He was a great kid. I'm sure he I remember starting with with Captain Hughes back in the jail several times. Yeah. You're about the same age, aren't you? Yeah. Questions. So, you're just you're starting into several retirees. Is this it for the year or is this will be it for the year? Um there there's no other additional I mean the next retirement on the horizon is me. Um we we had two we had two sergeants that that could go um when we had all this movement with with the promotions. Both both Five shift sergeants came to days. Um I didn't foresee that happening and they found we're going to be in pretty good shape. I think Yeah, we should be in pretty good shape. Um they they both enjoy days and it's given them certainly a new outlook um on the clientele that they deal with. That took some pressure off. Yeah. And I think they get to be around me more. So I think they just if they're staying I'm going to say it's a good thing. So second. It's been moved and seconded that we approve the um money for the captain's position at the sheriff's department. All those in favor, please signify by saying I.

Oppose the same. Thank you. Thank you. Um the health department, Adrian North, administrator for the health department. Um this is is the annual grant process um on the opioid restricted fund. It's evenly divided into four categories is something that the commissioners already approved. Um and then on the restricted um that's going to help with um or sorry the unrestricted unrestricted is going to help with the um coordinator salary for Montgomery drug free Montgomery County and um then the grant match from the commissioners questions. Yes, it's been moved and seconded that all of the um health department request be passed. All those in favor signify say by saying I oppose the same. Thank you. Thank you. Good morning. Jessica Bett, EMA director. Um this first for vehicle um that would be we've been in talks for probably six months with my advisory council um speaking with other departments on how they handle um a new vehicle purchase and most of the county goes with enterprise fleet services. And so that's what we're looking to do. We're looking to replace our Dodge truck. It's a 2014. It's the vehicle we use to pull all of our trailers with. um and it's on its

last leg. So, working with Enterprise, um we worked out a lease with them. Um they also are giving us a little over $6,000 for the Dodge truck. Um and this would include So, this is six months. This is the And I don't know that it we won't have to start paying for a few months. Um but I just went ahead and did six months. So, this won't all probably be used this year. Um, so it's it's a little over 12,000 a year for that vehicle. So you're leasing, correct? It's a 60-month lease. 60 60 months. 60 months. Questions. There is not. Um, we did double check um because we will be adding lights and things and there is nothing um that will hurt us by doing that. They're actually they have a company they work with that that they'll do it right there on site. So, it's it's convenient as well. Other questions? Is there a motion? Is there any maintenance or anything going to be on top of this? What? We got to have a second before you can ask a question. Okay, thank you. Now go. Is there any maintenance on top of this? Not on top of it. It's included with it. And insurance. um that is paid for by the county. Okay. Comes out of the commissioner's budget,

I assume. Okay. They're nodding. Yes. And that wouldn't be any different than the previous speaker. Correct. Okay. It's been moved and seconded. Are there any other questions? All those in favor of um the EMS request signify by saying I. I. Oppose. The same. Motion carried. Thank you. Thank you. Uh my next one, the remainder I'm not asking for any additional money. So uh the next one we had a message board that was damaged in one of the storms. Um it was out um placed for one of the races and um a windstorm came through and completely destroyed it. And so we received an insurance check for this. Um, so it's just replacing that message board, but we've we've received the funds for it already for insurance. It's been moved and seconded that we approve the 15,000 request. All those in favor say I. I. Oppose. The same. Motion carried. Thank you. Yep. Uh, the next two are together. So we have um LEAPC which is local emer emergency planning committee um and that kind of handles our our hazmat our ESF EHS for um industries. So those industries that have um a lot of hazmat related things have to um send in documents with the state and so we maintain all of that. we um we meet quarterly with these meetings um and just make sure kind of everyone's doing what they're supposed to be hazmat wise when it comes to industry. So with that we receive a percentage of those fees. Um so every year the department of revenue sends us a check. Um and that's what this is. So

we've already received the funds. We're just appropriating it down to the line items. It's been moved and seconded. Are there any questions? All those in favor of that distribution signify by saying I oppose the same. Okay. Thanks. Thank you guys. Now we have transfer of appropriations. Sandre. So, on this one, u similar thing as with a part-time scanner, but we took a full-time position and split it into two part-time positions. And I just need to transfer the money into the new line items from the previous line item questions. Yes. Okay. It's been moved and seconded that um the clerk can move those two funds. All those in favor say I. I opposed. Thank you. Thank you. Hello, Nancy Cox, County Recorder. Um, I'm just asking for the transfer of funds. We reduced what was approved for the budget, but we reduced it for publication. So, I just need to transfer it back over. It's been moved and seconded that we transfer the request of $5,000. All those in favor say I. Oppose the same. Thank you. Thank you, Nancy. Good morning. I'll answer any questions. Um I I tried to explain the the additional and transfer all in one. Um but that's what the transfers are for. they're for the new promotions. Um, and

then we had one that as we were doing this year's budget, we found out he was a year behind on on the matrix of where he should have been. Um, and we were able to do do all of that through through Sergeant Jenkins retirement and then hiring the new guy. So, that's what those are. It's been moved and seconded that we accept um the sheriff's request. All those in favor say I. opposed the same. Thank you. Motion carried. Do you have any other questions about the reduction of appropriations since Brian already talked about the public defender of this item? Is moved and seconded that we approve that appropriation. All those in favor say I. Oppose the same sign. Motion carried. All right. Yes, you have before you ordinance 20251, which is an ordinance which would amend the wheel insert tax. Uh the version you have in front of you shows the changes. If you look on page two, uh the changes would increase the motor vehicle excis sir tax from $40 uh per vehicle to $50, which is the maximum. And then on the wheel tax. On the next page, it would increase the wheel tax from $60 to $80, which is also the maximum. I'll be happy to answer any Oh, and this uh change, if if adopted, would take place actually under the rules on January 1 of 2026. Jake, do you have anything you'd like to add what this extra money is going to be used for? Good morning, Jake, highway director.

Um, yeah, so you know, we've seen the plan a few times. Um, this would be allocated towards chip seal, crack seal, cold mix paving, and hauling rock, the gravel roads. Um, those are the places that we struggle anyway. Um, so that would just be helping extend those services and we'd still be in a deficit for what you need, right? Correct. Okay. Any other questions for Jake or Mr. Taylor? Yeah. Second. It's been moved and seconded that we change uh we accept the ordinance that changes the um wheel tax for the county. All those in favor say I. I. Opposed. Motion carried. You guys will see that um in the 2026 budget I created a line that's under by 2 minutes material. So that's what that would go for be a 2000 series and 2026 1176 MBH budget. Thank you. Uh the next item under old business is funding for the public defenders office. the study committee has met repeatedly and we have um formed um a suggestion that we're going to present to the council next month. Uh we believe that we um should go with the program. We just had a couple other questions come up that we need to address before we vote on that. So we

will do that before the next meeting and then we will present that to you what our recommendation is. Are there any questions that you have? No. Okay. Alex, did you have something you wanted to add? This is Alex Thomas. I'll let her introduce herself. Thank you. Alex Thomas, um, president of the board of, uh, public defenders. Um, I just wanted to add that the board had conversation with the state uh director of the public defender commission and he informed us that if the county council approves this um proposal for the reimbursement program that depending on the month that they approve it, uh if it was this month, which that's not going to happen, but August and um the board, the public defender board gets their comprehensive plan done which outlines all of the positions and the plan for case levels, that kind of thing. If we get our plan done and approved by the state commission by December, they will go back retroactive and reimburse the county uh as if the county had entered the program in August. So, you'll be able to recoup that 40% um well, you'll start your reimbursement program in August. um which is really beneficial uh if we can get it on the ground. And that's of course um so the public defenders office would have to meet the standards that are outlined in that uh public defender uh reimbursement program you know the county level the levels their quality of service that kind of thing and then if all goes well and the this comprehensive plan is

approved in December we can go retriactive because they meet in I think it's January 2nd their commission meets in January and they can approve it uh as long as we get it in by December. You can have your paper. It's really your paperwork that has to be done, right? Like so if you voted on it in August, then it then it's on the public defender board, county board to prepare the comprehensive plan. They've prepared us or they've sent us the like the sample documents. they have an attorney who is assigned to help guide the board as we put together the document. Um, and then that's submitted to them for their review and approval. Um, and then once they approve that and they you entered the commission, then they'll go retroactive to August as if you entered into the program August. Well, that I thought when we met, now tell me if I'm wrong, which you will. Uh, uh, Was that we were under the assumption the committee working on this that it was done quarterly. So we would only if we entered into it in August. Oh we would only be paid for October, November, December the last. You might be right about that because I think the assumption when we talked to Mr. Mason it was right after your committee had met and we had a number of questions to the state commission and you may be right. I think we were the under under the assumption it would be voted on in in July. So you might be right. I'll have to clarify that. But you might be right. It might it may go back to October. I'm Yeah, we could at least capture three months. Yeah. Yes. Right. Okay. Okay. So just with just to be aware of that when you're voting in August, but even if we do if we pass it, you

don't you have until the end of the year to submit your paperwork. We have until the end of the year for the next state commission meeting. Okay. So that they can approve it because they only meet they meet quarterly also. I see. Okay. All right. So I'm sorry about the quarterly. You're right. I I think it's like the first part of January. I'll have to double check. So in the event we decide to go this route. Does the advisory board are they okay with stepping up to do the additional work that's going to be asked of them and we were asking for reviews and maybe some information that way annually. You mean the public defend the public defender board? Yes. Would we be prepare prepared to do all the work for that? Yeah. Yes. Well, I think what Gary's asking is when we've talked about it, we've we've learned that the public defender board doesn't do an annual evaluation of the department and that's what we would ask of you if we approve this. So, are you willing, would you be willing to do We did talk that over with Mr. Mason because we weren't sure. So, the public defender chief, he's an appointee of the board, right? So, the my understanding there is no provision for evaluating the public defender chief. The chief does evaluate his personnel and that's part of the comprehensive plan. Um, now that being said, you know, the the board has discussed and and will discuss uh parameters about the chief's appointment like what we what we would like to see in the chief um if if that's kind of something within what you're talking about. um to make sure that I mean it's our duty to make sure he's doing his job number one to make sure that he's going to meet the standards that the comprehensive plan is going to uh require. He has to meet the he or she he

has to meet the uh case level requirements and the quality of service com uh requirements to make sure you know that they're adequately and appropriately representing their clients managing his office. So I think that's we we would do that as um uh it can like not like like a job description so much but as an expectation is does that sound sound right? But that's what we were looking for. Okay. I'm glad you shared that because Okay. So something in writing is what you're looking for. Are you are you okay with the board because according to the state commission it's more it's more we don't do the evaluation. We monitor his his performance as a as a board, but you know, knowing what standards he would have to meet under the comprehensive plan. So then does your board have to to report that to anybody after you've done that exercise? Not necessarily. I think No, but we're we're welcome to to take input. Council would like a report saying that, you know, we're doing the job, doing what we're supposed to be doing, meeting the standards and those kinds of things. Sure. And hopefully you get something like that. Okay. That could probably I mean I can look in the plan it be part of the comprehensive plan is what is what you're talking about. I'm sure we can incorporate it in a manner that would meet the state uh law which is the appointment law as well as your concerns to make sure he's accountable to the public for his job performance. Is that Richard? Right. And in no way do we think Brian's not doing his job. That is not the point here. Um, no. No, but I understand. You're doing a great job, Brian. Uh, but you know, going forward, you know, this is since we're entering into this new

project um or reimbursement program. We just wondered if if we needed to be a little more transparent about what our money is being spent on and how that's working. Sure, I understand that. We'll incorporate that. that we had planned to meet uh after the council's meeting once the council approves the um entering into the program. We were planning to meet and how would we go forward with that with your we don't we had talked about the committee's concerns about that and how to address that and we're still kind of talking how we're going to do right that's works any other questions well and we we have job descriptions Tom can get you one that we have for and you could see how it matches up with what your expectations are. You mean on the chief? Okay. I couldn't find the ordinance. I looked in the ordinance and I've looked in resolutions. I couldn't find how far back it went to the original appointment for uh the board and the um the original appointment of Brian as the chief public defender. So, I couldn't find And Tom, you can get you could get her a copy of his, can't you? That'd be great. Yeah. It's when they did the salary schedule study last year that And it may mirror it be something to that might help you out. I gotcha. Okay. All right. Yeah, we'll enter we'll entertain that. Okay. Anything else? Thank you, Alex. We appreciate the explanation. Just one comment. For you guys benefit, we've met several times. The judges have been really helpful in this process. Brian's he's done a lot of work in this thing and we kind of no stone unturned. what we're going through. We've got a couple other questions or comments that we need to review before we make a recommendation. It's been a big process, right? And you know, we appreciate it.

Appreciate you guys working on that, everybody. And also, if it can bring money back to the county, if we can save money, I don't know before years ago when they did this, I don't believe it was the case. and uh but now if there's a way we can get money back and if we're where we need to be on staffing then it's a kind of a no-brainer. Appreciate it very much. Thank you. Uh moving on the AW request. Good morning. I'm Kurt Hullman representing the Animal Welfare League of McGomery County. We're seeking a an allocation of $2,500 from the county dog tax fund. My information uh end of June was that the fund consisted of 3,60970. So we're seeking a good part of that. So that is our request today. Well, uh I'll I'll make a motion that Wait a minute. Mindy has something. Um Brian and I Brian Curtain, sorry. Brian. Um, sorry, Kurt. Yeah. Yeah. Kurt Kurt and I usually speak a couple times a year about this and he did call and he always makes sure that we have enough um in the fund. Our our collections were really low um this year. Uh but that leaves us a little over $1,000 in that fund and hopefully that should be sufficient. And I' I've been down to the Animal Welfare League a couple times and been through and they have a lot of uh a lot of animals and and not much space and they have a much need there. Uh the one thing that we need to make sure and I'm glad that there's money left is that dog

tax is for if something somebody's farm animals are attacked by dogs or something then they get reimbursed and it's I don't know that we have as much of it as they used to. There's still times that there's people that get animals destroyed by something. So, I'll make a motion that we accept. It's been moved and seconded that we present the or that we give the $2,500 allocation from the county dog tax fund to the AWL. All those in favor oppose the same sign. Thank you, Kirb. Thank you. Just a heads up, this came in um after it was time to send appropriations. So, the appropriation will be at the next meeting as well as the claim. Okay. Thank you, Andrea. Good morning. So, back in April, I let you guys know that we were um our assistant chief was retiring come October 3rd. Uh Mark Bickl's been with us for he's been with the county for over 35 years. So, he's served in a couple different departments. Ultimately though, we we know who we are hiring. She's accepted the position for the assistant chief position. But what happened surprise to us is that in May we lost an employee. So we've been operating a man down. A man down shouldn't be too significant, but we aren't having any luck with any new hires. So we because of that and adjusting case loads, we have changed things and Lindsay Vondo has already accepted and has started doing assistant chief work. is taking time off as he's preparing for his um departure. In addition to that, he is covering that case load that we've lost um in regards to that. So, we've just shifted what we had originally planned to do. So, what we're asking to do is to go ahead and

start paying Lindsay Pondo the assistant chief pay because she's doing the work. That number is approximately $2,400. We're not asking for any additional money. With Mark's retirement, we will be in fact returning some money um at the end of the year. So, it's no additional money requested. The concern comes to be simply that it's not a normal practice to start paying before the other person has retired. In this situation, I'm asking for that and we have taken this request to the judges, my direct bosses, and they have approved it in regards to that. So, now we come before you for this. So, She's not getting the pay yet. You're coming to Okay. Correct. So, when are you asking the the pay for the extra pay for her would start? I would like for it to start now. And the additional aspect of that is we can't pay two people out of one line. So, we have one line that's called the assistant chief's position. I would ask that we just remain keep Lindsay in her payline, her current account line. There's sufficient funds within that account line to pay the difference. So although she's accepting new responsibilities, we keep her in that account, pay from that account. Then when Mark retires, she moves to the assistant chief account line and that keeps things clean from the auditor standoint. What do you think, Tom, on that? Well, that's why we submitted the the request to you. the council's responsible for approving positions. So, if they're asking for a second assistant chief, you guys need to approve that. But if we No, if we approve that, then in October, we would have to take it away. That's what I was going to ask. Yes.

So, Mark would be retiring. So, that that budget essentially that account line would be we would no longer pay Mark. and you continue to pay Lindsay as assistant chief, right? But if we've added a line, No, we're not adding a line. We're not I'm asking that we not add anything. We're asking we not change anything. The only difference being is the account line that she currently sits in is not titled assistant chief or two months. Yeah. Or three, right? But it's based specifically on the work that she's doing. So when when Mark Mark leaves in October, is his time going to be done or is he have more time to come. So, does he have PTO and stuff or We will be paying him out. So, he retires October 3rd and gets paid out and I I apologize. I don't remember the next pay date. Um but then as soon as that's paid out, then we move Lindsay into that line. Okay. And then is there somebody moving into her line then? Please Lord, let there be. Okay. We're not having any. That's what Okay. So, we've got the one position that's been vacant since May. But so you're but what I mean is you're planning on this next year when we do our budgets there her her line item will still be there for next year. Okay. But it won't have the extra pay in it. No. No. No. If there's somebody hired, correct? Okay. Further questions? As long as we're setting a preced what's going on because we don't want a pay increase for that position only and that's kind of what's happening. So provided we could do that and satisfy that and at the end of the year you think there's still going to be money left in these two position. Yes. And I apologize I didn't calculate what it was but yes there'll be some being returned because once again I'm

not asking for any additionals. It's just based on the pay difference. How long has she been doing that those additional tests? Since May, in essence, we started. Little by little, she's picked up things, but now she's just in essence been given, you know, sinker spin time. Here we go. So, and the additional pay would only be from now, unless you would be so kind as to backdate it. I didn't go before the judges with this request um I believe two weeks ago. So, I would say I before then. So I wouldn't be opposed to the concept of after since the judges have approved it paying that but that's a your decision from that at the very least I asked that we start effective this pay period. The reason this was um stopped in our office was I this happens all the time um anytime somebody quits and or turns in their notice you know we're hiring immediately and um somebody if it's from inside somebody's already taking on those responsibilities and we have not historically approved pay raises until the position is actually started. No, no offense, but that's that's why it was stopped in our office. So, because that sets a precedence because this happens all the time in all of the offices. So, that's that was our hesitation. And our difference from that standpoint is I when I took over chief position, I was in that exact situation. I served as chief for two months before I actually got the pay for it from that standpoint. U but in this situation, we now have this vacancy and so because of that, this additional grief to us and that additional change that we've had to overcome. So that's where I'm asking from from that standpoint because originally back in April that wasn't the

plan. The plan was to pay but because of these changes um hence where we're at. Well, I appreciate it you you not paying her before you come to the council because we need to be the ones that make the change. Um, if we're not going to set any and I understand you want to have a seamless transition and move everybody forward. Um, I mean, I don't have a problem starting her next pay and but it needs to be documented that this is a a special reason because we do not want to open Pandora's box on this thing. Um, and and Mark does have a lot of knowledge and can help help out and I'm glad and tell him that I appreciate that he's helping out and staying around. So, I'll make a motion that we go forward with it with a notation that this is a special occasion to pay next starting next pay. Is there a second? It's been moved and seconded that we accept um the request that the that Lindsay be paid $2400 or that we move $2,400 so that there can be extra pay for Lindsay for the next two and a half months. Yeah. Any questions? All those in favor say I. Oppose the same. Okay. Thank you. You're welcome. All right. Anybody in the um audience, any funded organizations that would like to say anything at this time? Department heads,

elected off? Oh, here we have one. Yeah, we have one. Mark Bonwell, building administrator. Just a quick update on the courthouse in Benford Street. Um, courthouse phase two on the interior is progressing. Uh, we're roughed in and getting ready for drywall and other finishes. So, uh, that's moving on the interior. Exterior, we are still working on the cornice work on the north and south side of the building. Uh, as you can remember, the overhangs had a little sway to them. So, we're working on that framing and masonry. Um, and so that's moving. Uh, we we have slowed down on roofing the courthouse back because we're waiting on that corners repair. So, once that gets repaired and completed, then they'll roof the rest of the courthouse. So, we're in good shape there. We will be covering up that green ice shield. So, anyway, um, the masonry restoration is still ongoing. Uh, you see a lot of changes on the tower itself. uh with the uh flashing has been restored and painted and the masonry is being worked on on the northwest corner. So, big changes on the exterior that you'll be seeing. You can't quite see it because of scaffolding, but it's starting to look really good up there. Um and then Benford Street, uh we're close to completion on that. Still waiting on some railings for the the rear and the front. Again, this is an ADA improvement over there. Um we have roof the two porches and we're getting ready to put new gutters on the building. So, we we should see completion in here in the next week or so actually. Thanks, Mark. No problem. Anyone else? Just wanted to remind all of our elected officials there was some new legislation that took effect July the 1st on campaign finance. So, we tried to send out some emails. Hopefully most of you

got those, but check your email. If you have any questions about what your obligations are, reach out to the clerk's office. Couple updates. Um, um, I just want to let you guys know, I'll probably come back to you next month for an additional appropriation. Um, we did get the jail roof um, bid out. Um, it's due I think three weeks um the commissioners um the July 23rd meeting I think. Um so I just want to let you guys know that that is in progress. It's it's moving forward. So I'll Yep. This do the remaining portion um and then it will all be done then I love a heads up that we got to spend money. It's great. Tom. Um, just an update on the new core road waterline project. As you know, the council helped fund the extension of the water line for the new core towers and codings projects. That project is proceeding and the most recent update is that by the end of the month, the water line should be operational. This week is the goal to actually complete the installation. Then there'll be a few weeks of testing. So we'll know in a few days if that is still on schedule, but end of the month is the goal for that. And then also the new core overpass project. We are at the next stage where we'll be having a public meeting for the project here in August or September. So look forward to that. That project, as you recall, was awarded from the state about $17 million in grant and the project is scheduled for next July. So, we're moving forward on the next steps to get all of our permitting and approvals through the state for that project.

Anybody else? Tom, did they say who that was awarded to? Did do you know the contractor that received that for the waterline project or for No, for the Nuclear Road or we just re we just got the receiving of the money. They've not bid it out yet, right? Yes. So, we received the grant. We will not award the project or actually uh release the bid um for notice or notice to biders uh next year. Okay, Brett, do you have anything for the good of the cause? Yes. Um first of all, um Helen would be proud of you. She was the last woman to run a meeting and Helen McCoy was president. So, congrats. Was that back in ought to or when was Well, it was been a while, but uh she would be proud. She would be proud of the way you did today. So, thank you. Thank you much. Uh I do have uh I spoke with uh Representative Jeff Thompson and he will attend our next meeting Tuesday, August the 12th at 9. um and he wants to be on the agenda for to talk over Senate Bill One. And I'm looking for it to be a positive Q&A. So, let's uh that's kind of what I told him we would it would be a positive question and answer. So, if there's anybody that you think that might want to come or be here, uh he's uh been been very willing to come and talk with us. So, uh, he'll be here on on that's the 12th, right? Is our next meeting, correct? Okay. So, if you'd put him on there, I'd appreciate it very much. Do you want any questions submitted beforehand that you can feed him? I can I've got his uh email address. If there's anything that anybody wants to,

you know, send me forward to Jeff and and uh he just was too busy to come today, which with us missing a couple people, I think it's good. And this will give people time to uh to think about it. So, But yeah, he was very receptive and uh and and was looking forward to being here. Great. Thanks for arranging that. Oh, wait. Would you like to tell them what you have new in your life? Proud grandpa. No, grandpa. Um, I would like to remind everybody that this week starts the Montgomery County 4 fair and it runs from Friday until Wednesday. Is that the 16th? I think. Okay. So get your lamb burgers, get your pork burgers, get your ribeye sandwich, and appreciate all the work that the 4ers have put in. Two people. Um just couple quick updates. The uh assessor did pass values to us for all real and personal property. So we're working on certifying those. Um budgets were due last week. anybody who hasn't submitted. Um, and for the council, abatements are coming very quickly. We have several that will be on the next agenda. And one last reminder, the budget presentations by department heads, the time has changed. So, it is the um

August 25th and 26th. It will be at 4 pm instead of 6 pm. It's starts at four. Anything else for the good of the cause? Is there a motion to adjurnn? What? Whoa. Oh, yeah. We got to give our attorney some money, don't we? I'm sorry. Yeah. Public comment. And do who wants to talk? Sure. Tom Melvin, lifelong county citizen. Um, understand for the need for more money all the time. As a private citizen, I have to decide on priorities and my uh for my family uh my home. Um it's awful easy to say that we approve this budget. We approve this increase appropriations. Um I'd like to remind you guys that you're you're elected officials. We rely upon you to betterment of the county and you know those here in the city to city. I I've looked at the census for the last uh since 1990. McGomery County 90 was 34,436 2000 was 37629

and 10 was 38124 and then 20 was 37 936. We've not gone up. I mean, that's a 30,000 difference. I mean, up and down, up and down to get this these monies that we need for the highway department, for the county, the sheriff's department, other things. You know, we rely on you guys to increase the funds and part of the funds is increasing the community. Don't get me wrong, I love living in the rural community. I I live in the country. I love it. I wouldn't live in a city if you paid me. But we need to rely, you know, we need to increase our tax base. not just say, "Okay, you know, we're going to rely upon the citizens of the county to pay for this without increasing our tax base. I mean, we're raising taxes. I mean, when was the last time we reduced the tax rate?" I think we all take a look at that. I mean, I'm frustrated. Every every time I turn around, my bills are higher. My pay goes up a little bit, but everything else goes higher. Um, all right. I'm going to the I know the wheel tax is on the uh for the highway department. I work a four on four off shift, which I'm It's not a Monday through Friday

job. I work weekends. work holidays and the snow plowing on the weekends. I mean, weekdays I could hear a snow plow go by at 5:30 in the morning. On weekends at 7:30, 8:00 I have to be at work at 7 by 7. So, you know, that's one of the things we we're going to have to look at. I I know New Core does four on four off. Other places in the county besides where I work does four on four off. It's not just a Monday through Friday job anymore. So, we need to take a look at that. I mean, I realize these, you know, the guys on the trucks, you know, work hard and but you know, I need to work to to keep my job for starters and help pay these taxes that you're uh all right. Next thing, um the uh assistant chief deputy in training um that raise is going to come when she has a job full time. You know, there's really no appropriation need to do this. All you're doing, I mean, somebody made a comment opening Pandora doors box a president, you know, for future jobs and training. I mean, there's no money

appropriated for that, but that happens every single day. So, I just like to say I'm like I say, I'm disappointed um in the council. I'm disappointed in the commissioners. I'm disappointed in the state, federal, everybody. It's it's awful dog on easy to say we're going to raise the on the people that got the jobs. I mean, you own a business, you know, you know, you have to decide what how much you're going to give the race to folks. You just can't say, "Okay, let's take a vote." We have to I mean, everybody here has to make their own budgets. Well, let's let's vote to increase this. That's all I have to say. Thank you for sharing your concerns. And I think that really most of us do share the same concerns because of what we've been handed to do based on what the state voted to do this year. And so we appreciate you coming forward and and sharing your feelings because it is important to us and thank you. Are there any other comments then? All right. We have um the need to approve these claims. We have $2,474.50 to um Taylor and Manette and then $2,6942 to Peters and Franklin or Peters Franklin. Is there a motion? It's been moved and accepted seconded that we approve the claims. All those in

favor say I. Opposed to the same sign. All right. Notice that the next regular meeting is August the 12th at 9 and on the 25th and 26th we will have the budget presentations and we will begin at 4. Is there a motion to adjurnn? I need a second. and seconded.