Commission Discusses Budget Needs

The Jasper County Commissioners met several times recently to discuss budget items and hear from department heads and agency chiefs.

Tuesday evening they told Jasper Memorial Hospital Administrator Jan Gaston what the hospital’s roll-back rate is for taxes the county collects for it.

They also met last Friday, hearing from representatives of the Library, 911 Authority, Health Department, Fire/Rescue employee insurance, elections, and recreation.

Each department was on hand to discuss any increases the department was requesting.

Elections Superintendent Andrea Watson explained why she needed an increase for elections, and painted a scenario that could cost the commissioners much more.

The health department is seeking a new microscope, and Nurse Manager Sherry Bryant told how often they use the equipment and how they use it.

Jeffrey Lee with the 911 Authority detailed where increases were coming from, and stressed how important raises are as they lose employees to other counties once they are trained. He also detailed outdated equipment and the need for new.

Chief Chris Finch likewise pointed out the age of the fire trucks, and the immediate need for two trucks, as well as many other items. He and 911 both explained the number of calls has risen dramatically.