County Commission July 19, 2012

All commissioners present.

The Commission agreed with Pat Collins’ proposal to let Jackson County, per their request, use our Mobile Command Center  while their dispatch center is being renovated.  This would be from July 30 to Aug 14 or earlier.  The agreement with Jackson County specifies that the Center will be returned if there is an emergency here and it is needed.

Rod Meredith showed the Commission a series of slides of information on the proposed 1/4cent sales tax. (The current city/county ½ cent sales tax will expire at the end of this year).

   The presentation stressed the extent that non-residents will be contributing, including people coming to sports events, graduations, conventions, etc. as well as people from our larger trade area..  The money will be used for reconstruction, repair, and upkeep of our roads, bridges and culverts.  The Commission made some suggestions for editorial changes.  This material will be used in presentations to the public to gain their support and votes this Fall.

The Commission looked at the proposed 2013 budget numbers presented by Johnette Shepek as part of the ongoing discussion of the budget.  They made a number of adjustments resulting in a proposed 34.902 mil levy, up only .119 mils. One goal,  particularly important to Commissioner McCulloh,  was not having to reduce  personnel. 

Julie Merklin, observer