Beech Tree News Network

The Butler County Fiscal Court held the first meeting of the month on Monday, October 10th at the Butler County Courthouse. 
The court started their business by approving the minutes of previous meetings and litter abatement payments to Reedyville RD ($609), BCMS Cheerleaders ( $600), and Butler County Rescue Squad ($638). 
A lengthy discussion about the Fire Dues Ordinance followed with a motion by Magistrate David Whittinghill ( Fourth District) and a second by Johnny Tuck (Second District) to mail every property owner in the county a tax bill with no exemptions failed by a 2-3 vote. They court agreed to have the second reading on October 27th at 5:00 pm in a called meeting.  No changes were made to the ordinance.
The court approved the hiring of Jessica Powell as a part-time employee at the Butler County Aminal Shelter.  She will make $9.50 an hour and will work less than 100 hours per month. Osei Thomas, who volunteers at the Shelter addressed the court about some of the needs of the shelter.  Thomas said the air conditioning was not working properly; they needed some larger fans and new kennels.  Judge Fields said, they (the court) were not aware of problems with the air conditioner and suggested director Susan Meredith report any concerns to the court.

Citizen Robert Cron read a three page prepared statement regarding his opinion of the Butler County Fiscal Court and the Butler County Ambulance Board. When Rhoda Chism, citizen, stood up to respond the Cron's statement, he put his hat on and walked out of the meeting.
Chism said she didn't understand why the Ambulance Service was challenged every meeting. She also encouraged the magistrates to stand up and support the Ambulance Service.
In other business, the court approved the purchase of a washing machine from Gilbert Hack- Lakeside Appliances up to the amount of $201 by the Butler County Jail and payment of bills and transfers.