By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
During the March 4 meeting of the Guthrie County Board of Supervisors, the supervisors discussed the county’s funding of the Guthrie County Libraries Association. The libraries asked for a 7% increase from the current fiscal year.
Supervisor Steve Smith shared his view that libraries are an important community hub, especially in the smaller cities in the county.
“I think they’re pretty essential,” Smith said. “Their ask is 7%. For me, that might be a stretch. I’m probably thinking more about 4 ½ to 6%.”
“I’d like to look at 5 ½ or 6%,” Supervisor Brian Johnson said.
After discussion, the supervisors unanimously voted to approve a 5% increase.
The supervisors discussed the Feb. 28 payroll, with Supervisor Mike Dickson objecting to the Secondary Roads department payroll.
“I just don’t approve of the way it’s computed,” Dickson said. “Using personal time to gain comp time… They’re using sick time personal time to gain overtime.”
Smith said he feels that issue could be addressed at another time, but he made a motion to approve the Secondary Roads payroll as submitted. The payroll was approved by a 4-1 vote with Dickson opposed.
A public hearing on the Proposed Property Tax Notice was set for Tuesday, March 25 at 10:30 a.m.
Supervisor JD Kuster said he has been asked by several citizens when the supervisors will return to the issue of a possible countywide EMS plan. After discussion, the supervisors agreed to revisit the issue after budgeting, which is expected to wrap up around the end of March.
Through March, the Board of Supervisors meets regularly Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9 a.m. at the courthouse. The public is welcome to attend in person or via remote technology. To join remotely, call 323-792-6123, then use meeting code 547029216#.