In a regular session on Tuesday, the Lawrence County Commission commenced by acknowledging the achievements of Beta Club members from elementary, middle, and high schools. Following this recognition, the leaders delved into a comprehensive agenda for the meeting.
The majority of the items on the agenda received approval, except for two resolutions. One resolution, which involved the purchase of land for a new health department, was deferred to return to the facilities committee for further review. The other resolution was amended concerning solid waste free in relation to mixed loads.
Among the approved items was a resolution to seek a Small Cities CDBG grant for the Leoma Utility District to construct an additional water storage tank. Additionally, a resolution was passed to designate certain property of the Highway Department as surplus. The Commission also approved resolutions to match grant funds for the Ethridge Fire Department and the Lawrence County Fire and Rescue for the acquisition of a compressed air foam system for firefighting purposes.
A resolution endorsing the establishment of the Opioid Abatement Council of Lawrence County garnered significant support. This council will gather information to advise the Commission on how to allocate the funds allocated to the county by the state for combating the opioid crisis.
Furthermore, a resolution authorizing a continuous four-year reappraisal cycle was passed with 13 in favor, 2 against, and 3 absences. County Executive David Morgan shed light on this resolution, noting that the county currently operates on a six-year cycle. With potential legislation aiming to enforce a shorter cycle for all counties, Lawrence County’s approval of the four-year cycle puts them ahead of the legislative curve.