Tuesday’s Simpson County Board of Supervisors meeting was a relatively calm one.
The board heard from Brian Taylor, who made a push for his company, Phi, to provide ambulance flight care to the county. He had previously made a pitch to the county, but they tabled his proposal.
Gena Sullivan, acting chancery clerk, reported to the board that the county received a 100 percent approval rate from the Department of Revenue. This indicates that of the 100 records sampled, all were found to be in compliance. Sullivan also presented the county’s newly adopted dog ordinance to become part of the minutes of the meeting. The ordinance primarily covers procedures for dealing with vicious dogs.
County Engineer Buddy Wolverton updated the board on various projects he is working on with the county. These include the Star-Braxton Road, which is being resurfaced. A notice to proceed has been established for the bridge replacement on Shorter Road. Another bridge replacement is in the works for Dry Creek Road which will allow for right of way acquisition as well as utility agreements.
Peacock Road will see a bridge replacement with plans mailed to State Aid in July.
The big repaving project drew some questions and comments from District 1 Supervisor Mitchell Chapman, who challenged the contractor, McQueen, as to why they had not completed the work that was booked for this year. McQueen responded in a non-appropriate manner and Chapman called him down. McQueen apologized to the board. He went on to say that there were 20 days of non-projected rain during August. Additionally, there was a material shortage, primarily of rock. He said the rock is now stock-piled in the county and will be available as soon as the weather permits. However, he anticipates it will be May of 2023 before the temperature is back to 60 degree nights, which is best for resurfacing roads.
There was little in the way of business other than usual for the Sheriff’s Department.
Charlie Welch reported on the trustee facility upgrades. He said that inmate labor has saved the county a lot in funding for the new solid waste building. Welch reported plans to tear down the old house near the trustee facility.
The board approved the monthly claims docket in the amount of $289,447. They extended the emergency bridge repair order. They approved the purchase of a new ice maker for the Extension office in the amount of $3,358 from their budget.
The board approved the appointment of Wendall James as special prosecutor for the State versus Dale Berry. Prosecutor Wesley Broadhead recused himself.
The next scheduled meeting of the board will be held on Wednesday, November 16. The county will observe Veterans Day on Friday, November 11, and Thanksgiving on November 24 and 25.
