Beech Tree News Network

The Butler County Fiscal Court met on Monday night in special session. The Court had a short agenda of items needing attention before the end of the year. Magistrate Johnny Tuck was absent from the meeting.

The squires voted 4-0 to pass the second reading of the new flood plain ordinance. Action was needed because the new flood plain needed to be adopted by January 8th.

The Court also approved a resolution authorizing Treasurer Certification Training, declared the County Clerk's old copier as surplus property, and approved occupational tax refunds to Dollar General, $388.12, and Little Mac's Construction, $339.00.

In the only item that garnered discussion the Court heard from Sheriff Scottie Ward. Ward presented his annual order setting maximum salaries for deputies and assistants. Ward's staff budget will be the same as in 2013 at $381,000.

Magistrate David Whittinghill questioned Ward about what was covered in the order. Specifically he asked if the monies were for salaries only, or if that included benefits and retirement. Ward answered that the order cover salaries only. He further explained that his salary is set by the state and will be handed down in February.

The squires approved the order by a 4-0 vote. The Court then approved Ward's disbursement schedule by a 4-0 vote. Ward explained that the schedule sets forth when he will receive the county's portion of his budget, and said it varied because of some months having more pay periods than others.

Judge-Executive David Fields reported to the court that the six recycling bins ordered from Metal Works had been delivered. He said the bins were at the county barn and needed lettering before they would be ready for placement. Fields said payment would be handled under bills and transfers.

After approving bills and transfers by a 4-0 vote the magistrates adjourned the meeting.

The next regular meeting of the Fiscal Court will be on Monday, January 13th at 6pm in the upstairs courtroom of the Butler County Courthouse. The Fiscal Court meets on the second Monday of each month at 6pm. All meetings are open to the public, and visitors may be added to the agenda prior to the meeting.

Story by Joe K. Morris, Beech Tree News