Beech Tree News Network

Butler County Fiscal Court met in regular session last week at the courthouse.  All magistrates - Stevie Givens, Johnny Tuck, Chad Tyree, David Whittinghill, and Bobby Moore, as well as Judge-Executive David Fields were in attendance. 

After approving minutes from the September 25 regular meeting, magistrates unanimously approved two motions under old business:

           - Approval to accept the contract with the Butler County Chapter NSDAR for the use of Unit 4 at the Butler County Community Development Center (old mall) for the Festival of Trees.

           - Approval to accept bids for the HVAC units in Units 4, 9, and 11 to be submitted by 3 p.m. on October 20.  New and used options and electrical bids were included with the motion.    

Bruce White asked if Butler County Community Development Center had been checked for asbestos. 

"Wouldn't it be prudent to check before spending the money?" asked White, who also referenced a building the city of Morgantown was given that apparently did contain asbestos. 

Judge Fields indicated that although the building hadn't been inspected for asbestos, it was unlikely to be an issue.  Floor tiles were the main possibility for asbestos but that unless material is disturbed then it should not be a problem.  Fields stated that he had "no problem" with the suggestion of getting the building inspected and indicated that he would do so. 

Under new business, magistrates approved turning on the electric for the house meter at the Butler County Community Development Center at a cost of $25. 

Morgantown Elementary Assistant Principal Toby Turpin presented information to the court regarding a mentorship program that he is organizing at the school. 

"We have 661 kids at MES and we want to help them with goal setting and leadership," said Turpin. 

The program would consist of having community leaders and elected officials to volunteer in a mentoring role with selected students or a small group of students. 

Magistrates approved the following litter abatement (trash pickup) payments to local groups:

          - Butler County ATC HOSA - $552.60

          - Boys and Girls Club of Butler County - $630.30

          - Oak Ridge Youth Group - $547.00

          - Temple Hill General Baptist Church - $600.00

          - Temple Hill General Baptist Youth Group - $612.30

Christina Dawson and Mike Wilson made a presentation to the court along with a $19,500 (annually) proposal from SOKY Jobs, a company that offers marketing-related services to both private and government entities.  The package would include various social media based marketing services including web site development, photo shoots, job postings, advertising, etc.  No action was taken.  Dawson is the founder and CEO of SOKY Jobs.  Mike Wilson (R-Bowling Green) is a Kentucky state senator.

Following a closed session regarding the county treasurer's position, the court returned to open session where magistrates voiced questions about various issues involving fire dues.  Tax bills have recently been mailed, which has prompted questions about the opting out procedures, how fees are collected for multiple properties/deeds, etc. 

Bruce White suggested that Fiscal Court write a letter to the governor and state lawmakers concerning the state's pension crisis as the proposals and possible changes may have a significant impact on Butler County government. 

Mark Mudd said lawmakers are "cutting a deal" now and a special session (of the KY General Assembly) may change things.     

Don Sullivan asked if a plan was in place to fully fund 911 dispatch. 

Magistrates approved a $25,000 transfer from the General Fund to the Jail Fund.  All bills and transfers were approved.