It was the first meeting of the new year under new leadership as Caldwell County Fiscal Court met Tuesday morning and approved several items of new business, including the sheriff’s 2023 estimated fee budget, appointments, and the purchase of a new stove for the jail.
Magistrates unanimously approved the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office 2022 4th Quarter and estimated fee budget presented by Melissa Peek. She said the sheriff’s department brought in around $322,556 in fees in 2022. In addition, Peek noted the 2023 Sheriff’s estimated fee budget is $315,985, which she noted is about $18,000 more than last year.
Magistrates voted to table any action on the Sheriff’s 2023 annual order setting maximum salaries until the next fiscal court meeting.
In other new business, magistrates unanimously approved four board appointments recommended by Judge-Executive Kota Young.
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Magistrates also approved a request submitted by Caldwell County Jailer William Harper to purchase a new stove with a cost of nearly $3,000.
click to download audioThe stove will be purchased from KaTom Restaurant Suppliers located in Kodak, Tennessee.
Magistrates also approved all Caldwell County Fiscal Court employees with no changes to personnel.
During reports from department leaders, Emergency Management Director Joey McCaslin said they are still awaiting the final siren grant. McCaslin said they don’t have the exact locations where the sirens will be placed but they have chosen the three areas.
click to download audioMagistrates also heard from County Clerk Jennifer Hale-Watson. She discussed e-poll books and possible election plans for the upcoming primary in May.
During the magistrate’s comments Elbert Bennett, Jeff Boone, Brent Stallins, and Jeff Simms each said they are looking forward to serving another term and working with Judge-Executive Young.
Anyone interested in addressing the Fiscal Court at its next regularly scheduled meeting at 9:00 on Tuesday morning, January 24th, should contact Judge-Executive Young’s office no later than noon on Friday, January 20th.
