The Greenwood County Commission met on Monday, March 23, for a routine weekly meeting. The commission addressed a range of county business, including equipment purchases, ongoing discussions about the proposed pay scale and heard concerns about property valuations from a county resident.
Regarding the pending pay scale approval, Greenwood County Emergency Manager Levi Vinson noted that supporting documentation to coincide with the pay scale was still being drafted. He suggested the commission wait until all materials were available before approving. Vinson noted that a few department heads had reached out with concerns of the pay scale approval impacting their budgets for this year, as they didn’t plan for additional pay rate changes during budget planning. Vinson shared that majority of the departments will not be impacted as employees are being paid where they should be, based on the market study. Commissioners emphasized the importance of implementing the scale correctly and taking the time necessary to do so. Discussion was also held regarding longevity, with Vinson noting that every five years, a longevity pay increase of 3% was noted in the pay scale.
In new business, Becky Schaffer addressed concerns regarding property valuations. She noted that she purchased a building at 819 N. Main St., in Eureka. The previous property value was noted at $15,680 and this year, the valuation increased to $52,000. Schaffer was looking for guidance for answers to assist with upgrades/repairs without seeing a substantial increase in valuation. Schaffer noted that she also hears these concerns in her real estate business and property buyers are reluctant to put additional money into the property as they fear their valuations will increase.
County Counselor Paul Dean suggested Schaffer discuss the matter with the City of Eureka, with hopes of gathering details on the Revitalization Program.
County Commissioners Discussed Proposed Pay Scale .
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Schaffer continued to ask if there was a way to work together. She also planned to meet with the City of Eureka.
Per state regulations, property valuations are to be within 10% of the purchase value. Commissioners reminded those in attendance that Greenwood County was 1 of 25 counties to be non-compliant with the state in 2024 and was 1 of 2 counties out of compliance last year, with the state appraiser noting values should be higher than they are in Greenwood County.
A quote for two computers, with Microsoft Office and tech support completing set-up/installation, was approved for the Greenwood County Health Department. The bid, from Advantage Computers, was for $3,896.
Discussion was also held regarding signage throughout the county. It was mentioned that several areas need updated signage, as they have been damaged and/or removed. Commissioners would like to see that 911 signs be replaced as needed. It was also noted that townships are responsible for regulatory signs, with the county being responsible for 911 signage. Commissioner Roy Ballard was in favor of hiring a specific person to focus on signage. It was also noted that inmate laborers may also be able to assist with the project.
Several executive sessions were held. The commissioners held a 10-minute executive session with Road and Bridge Administrative Assistant Kassie Lazar and Dean for legal matters-property acquisition. The commissioners held two executive sessions with Vinson and Dean for personnel matters – evaluation, totaling 25 minutes. The commission held a 5-minute executive session with Clerk Deann McCaffree and Dean for personnel – employee qualifications. No action was taken after any session.
Commission Chair Preston Evenson expressed appreciation to all first responders (Firefighters, EMS, Emergency Management, Sheriff’s Office and Dispatch) for their efforts working the multiple fires over the weekend.
The March 16 meeting minutes and special payables for March 23, totaling $3,523.43 were approved as presented.
The annual FRA Declaration form was signed by the commission.
The treasurer’s report was reviewed by the commissioners.
The next scheduled meeting of the Greenwood County Commissioners is Monday, March 30, at 9 a.m.
