Lee Estes

The Cleburne County Commission convened an emergency meeting to address an unexpected increase in the property insurance proposal from Parnell Insurance for 2025. The commission discussed options for higher deductibles and payment plans, while the County Administrator sought lower rates from other insurance companies. The commission agreed to accept specific deductible amounts for automobile, equipment, and property coverage, and decided to use a payment plan to allow time to explore alternatives with other companies.

The commission discussed the closure of County Road 625, with concerns raised by Mr. Tony Daniel. They approved the October Consent Agenda, which included approving minutes from September meetings, recognizing board appointment statuses, approving an alcohol license for The Store, approving the Title VI Program, allowing for the surplus of Engineer's Department equipment, allocating American Rescue Plan Act funds for government services, and agreeing to allow Commissioner Hill to use discretionary funds for bridge analysis and design and fence work at Pleasant Grove Elementary School. They also expressed support for Amendments 2 and 7 to the Alabama Constitution, agreed to place an advertisement on County maps, and discussed the SRO contract.

The meeting addressed multiple topics, including the Homestead Act for Disabled citizens and the impact of internet outages. The Sheriff's Department selected Kimbel's Commissary Services for the County Jail, pending contract approval by the County Attorney. Updates were provided on workforce projects, the new County website, and the upcoming Vegas convention trip. The Commission approved budget increases for the County Administrator to cover financial preparation and employee training services provided by Melissia Wood. Discretionary funds were allocated for canoe landings and improvements to the Chamber of Commerce by the Boy Scouts. Additionally, the commission approved the purchase of a bucket truck for the Cleburne County Engineer. The meeting also covered the emergency feeding fund and storm damage to county roads.

The Commission met to discuss the FY25 Budget and changes that need to be made, including how to increase the Engineer budget to provide for better road repairs. Action as related to Resolution #5476. The meeting is continued to Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at 1:00 PM.

The Cleburne County Commission agreed to continue providing inmate housing for Municipal Inmates under the same agreement, with a rate of $32 per day, beginning July 13, 2023, until the end of Fiscal Year 2023. The Chairman was authorized to sign the agreement with each Municipality.