Fiscal Court Covers County Bridge Program and Animal Shelter Updates
Jeanie Locke gives update to Fiscal Court on Animal Shelter.
Lynn Bledsoe
Jobe Reporter
Nov. 12, 2024, Butler County Fiscal Court held their regular meeting. In Oct. the County purchased a roller that they knew would need some work, but the Fiscal Court still believe the value was worth the price. They are waiting for an itemized list of what needs to be done before approval for the work.
The County Bridge Program causes a lot of questions as to how it was decided which bridge received attention and to the steps involved to complete the requirements by the state. This program originally was not supposed to cost the county any money but now changes have been made. The county is now asked to find a consultant to draw up designs and estimate the cost of what the expense will be. Judge Flener explained that the bridges chosen were based on type, location, use and state of need. Judge Flener also cautioned that the state can refuse the plans, but the county still must submit them.
Butler County Sheriff Scottie Ward addressed the Court asking for permission to be able to move some of his budget money around in order to purchase a new truck for the department. The court approved because it is becoming difficult to find law enforcement vehicles. Sheriff Ward stated that his office’s tax collection had been going well. The new programs on the website have allowed residents to pay property tax bills online. For Oct. around $3.7 million had been collected.
Scottie Ward address Fiscal Court.
Jeanie Locke gave the animal shelter an update. Locke presented Fiscal Court with records of operating expenses. The Gilstrap Foundation Money current balance is $51,192. This money has been used for flea and tick medicine, vaccines, steroids and micro chipping.
Year to date the Shelter has taken in 508 cats, 442 dogs and 3 rabbits. 941 animals have been adopted out this year. The spay neuter program has helped 31 counties, due to a shortage of vets since Oct 1. Participants pay for their pets spay/neuter at a low cost, but the Shelter will break even with a possible small profit. Locke stated that many people who come will then use local business for food, gas and other necessities due to the travel.
Butler County Extension Council and District Board nominees were Joy Wells- 3rd District and John Parrish -4th District. Both were approved.
Judge Flener informed Fiscal Court that jail employees must have vaccinations that will be paid by the Court. The issue was tabled until they could check prices and develop a waiver for employees who do not want the vaccinations.
The next issue up for discussion is the GeoConex 24/7 support, maintenance and upgrades. The total cost is $11,555. Fiscal Court approved the payment.
Fiscal Court also approved to advertise for weather radio project. This could ensure that every home in the county can receive a weather radio. The grant has already been awarded to cover the cost of radios. Fiscal Court also approved up to $500 for Emergency lights for E911 and signs for the side of the truck. $260 was approved for E911 battery backup so that there will be no missed 911 calls if the electricity is out of service. Fiscal Court then approved to place out for bid tree trimming services. Court approved to pass the spay/neuter grant on to the Friends of Butler County when it is received.
Fiscal Court approved to transfer $35,000 from the General fund to the Jail fund. All Litter abatement payments were approved, Treasurer’s monthly settlement was approved along with all bills and transfers.
Dillion Bryant mentioned that a new regional Driver’s License office will be opening up in Leitchfield. Diane Dyer was asked how well her holiday basket fund went and she said that they had received around $20,000 to provide food baskets. The Boys and Girls Auction will be Nov. 23.
