Clark County

The Fiscal Court meeting addressed several budgetary and administrative items. Key decisions included the approval of the 2026 state advancement and the 2026 fees budget for the Clark County Sheriff's Office, as well as the approval of the Clark County Sheriff's Tax Bond. The court also approved salaries for Clark County Sheriff's Office order M personnel and set the salary for the new finance officer, Paul Brown, who is currently in training. Discussions also covered setting up a new committee for the Coroner's department, resolving a water backup issue potentially caused by a fence post hitting a waterline near a splash pad, and updates on the sewer project, which reached a milestone with a major easement signature. The relocation of the Sheriff's office to the CET building was mentioned, with plans expected at the next meeting. Concerns were raised regarding staffing levels for the road department and compensation for an employee taking on additional payroll duties temporarily.

The meeting addressed several important operational and financial matters. Key discussions involved the approval of budget transfers and bill lists, noting a significant general transfer potentially linked to an outstanding loan payment. A substantial portion of the discussion concerned the approval of a supplemental bill list, specifically regarding $130,000 for road work on Old Springs Road. Concerns were raised regarding procurement process adherence, state contractor status, and whether required tackle was applied to the road surface, leading to the tabling of this item for further documentation review. Public comments focused on the condition of property containing a historic Civil War fort, detailing issues with waterway diversion erosion, a collapsed cannon platform, theft of benches, an overflowing garbage can, and the need for maintenance gravel. Additionally, the court discussed pursuing a gravel truck purchase, concluding for now not to pursue it based on grant information and existing equipment capabilities.

The Fiscal Court meeting involved several operational and administrative matters. Key discussions included the approval of minutes from prior meetings in October and November, with clarification sought and provided regarding an amendment to a standing order concerning House Bill One funding draws. The Court addressed an item concerning a fire department ceremony which was subsequently removed from action. Decisions were made regarding budget transfers and the approval of bills lists, including a supplemental list, where the approval of fourth-quarter 911 fees was tabled pending clarification on collected credits. Discussions centered on financing and procurement for a new fire department truck, utilizing a $20,000 grant and a potential state reimbursement of nearly $20,000, with a motion to advertise for bids to adhere to procurement rules. The Court also approved the paving bid for Hector Road and confirmed promotions within the Clark County Fire Department, appointing Nicholas Carson to Captain and Zachary Humphrey to Lieutenant. Furthermore, Teddy Martin was reappointed to the Clark Water District Board of Commissioners. The Court considered and moved forward with the first reading of ordinances to rezone several properties from A1 to Plan Development (PD) zoning, following compliance checks with the comprehensive plan. Finally, the Court addressed potential vacancies on the Clark County Ethics Commission, noting the need to stagger the four-year terms of new appointments.

The special called meeting included discussions on several key topics. The board discussed pursuing financing for the Park County Fire Department's truck, considering a grant received and the need to secure a loan for the remaining cost. They also reviewed and approved amendments to the administrative code and considered the promotion of Jared Carter to full-time within the fire department. Additionally, there was discussion regarding a budget amendment for fiscal year 2026 and setting the salary for the Clark County Emergency Management Director. The meeting also covered the consideration of a bid for a compost grapple truck, which was ultimately tabled for further review and information gathering. Lastly, the board addressed an amendment to the agreement with CSX Railroad concerning the bridge at Red River.

The meeting included discussions and decisions on several financial matters, including budget and cash transfers, and approval of the bills list. There was also discussion regarding a KO loan, the opioid abatement fund, and USI benefits. The USI benefits review included a discussion of renewal options, claims projections, and a comparison of quotes from different providers.