Friction Soars Among County Commissioners

The Jasper County Commissioners had a brief mid-month meeting Monday, agreeing on a resolution for an interim application process for wireless telecommunications facilities and introducing several proposed ordinances dealing with emergency management issues.

The resolution is for 90-days, until the county can develop a new cell tower. The commissioners also voted to enter an agreement with the Georgia Center of Local Government Services for its assistance with the ordinance and subsequent handling of applications.

Commissioners did not agree, however, on a new salary schedule for Chief Registrar Carole Norris and the deputy registrars.

Commissioner Mary Patrick made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Alan Cox to pay the registrar $61 a day to work three days a week, beginning July 1, and to pay the deputy registrars minimum wage when they have to work. In discussion, Mrs. Patrick said they could reconsider the pay rate at the time of the next presidential election.

The motion failed with Commission Chairman Carl Pennamon, and Commissioners Ronnie Payne and Charles Hill voting against the change.

The issue had been discussed in closed session at the end of the last meeting.

Mr. Pennamon suggested the board needs to have a
“retreat” with a facilitator to improve communication and discuss several things. Mr. Pennamon said the county attorney was who suggested a facilitator.

Commissioner Payne said he’d like to see everyone submit what they want to talk about.

Commissioner Patrick asked what is the difference in a retreat and work session. Attorney James Alexander said that typically at a retreat the members talk about how the board operates, whereas at a work session they talk about how the county operates.

Mr. Payne made the motion to have a retreat, and Mr. Hill seconded it. Mr. Pennamon voted affirmative to pass the motion. Commissioners Cox and Patrick voted against having a retreat.

Commissioners heard from a resident who is concerned about the recreation department, then went into closed session to discuss pending or threatened litigation.