Magistrates approve items for sheriff, clerk; discuss the "beaver problem" in the county

Mon, 12/16/2024 - 2:35pm — John Embry

Butler County Fiscal Court met at the courthouse on Monday, December 9. All magistrates - Stevie Givens, Kevin Phelps, Allen Smith, David Whittinghill, and Dillon Bryant - were in attendance.

Old Business

The court agreed to table the purchase of a spare motor for the ferry's paddlewheel. Magistrate Kevin Phelps, after thorough research and discussions with several companies, found that a rebuilt motor can be here within nine days. So, magistrates decided not to purchase the motor until needed.

New Business

Butler County Sheriff Scottie Ward asked the court to approve an annual order setting the salaries of deputies and assistants, including fringe benefits, at $607,000. The measure was approved. Magistrates also approved Sheriff Ward's 2024 budget amendment to reflect the purchase of a truck.

Butler County Clerk Sherry Johnson asked the court to approve the following items:

-Amend her 2024 budget to reflect the increase in revenue to $7,657,159.24.

-Accept her 2025 Budget Receipts $6,000,000, Disbursements $5,842,600

-Approve an annual order setting the salaries of deputies and assistants, including fringe benefits, at $245,000.

All items were approved.

Magistrate Dillon Bryant, Shane Wells, and Greg Drake discussed the beaver problem in Butler County with the court. According to Bryant, beavers are causing extensive damage to property, including timber, agricultural, and row crops. McLean County Conservation District has started a Beaver Removal Program with assistance from their fiscal court. Bryant made a motion for the court to provide $2,500 to start a similar program in Butler County through the Conservation District. A bounty of $50 will be paid per beaver with an approved permit.

The court approved the following additional items:

--5th District VFD Treasurer's Report