Philosopher Camus wrote “Always go too far, because that’s where you will find the truth.”
County Commission Meeting March 9, 2016
Fire Commission
Discussion/Action/Approval – Payment to City of Ely of $6,000 for Fire
Protection. ($3,000 for fire and $3,000 EMS)
Laurie Carson “I voted in agreement with this, I thought politically it was the correct thing todo. I am going to vote against it. I do not think that in regards to equity it is the right thing to do. I would rather do a cost per call, the more I think about it this would be more equitable. Each fire department gets $5,000 a year for equipment and maintenance. This $6,000 a month comes out of their budget. In January there was one assist from the city and the county gave one assist, February no assists. This is a wash.”
(Carson is correct, too bad she did not think this way before voting to pay the city.)
Richard Howe “We did make an agreement with the city to pay this, I agree we are not getting the bang for buck. We broke that agreement by not negotiating with the city. The gap between the city and the county is widening.”
Mike Coster “For the first time I may see some value in the study. I am going to vote for this. I think this is to much, but to late in the game to opt out. We made the agreement.”
Howe “ I think Gary’s idea of paying the money until June 30 and reconsider at that time as to continue or not.”
This passed with Carson voting no.
EMS/Fire Mutual Aid Agreement with Lincoln County. Approved.
(This agreement we have with all surrounding counties and some counties in Utah. Payment is only for special equipment or an event that lasts more than 24 hours.)
ATV operation in White Pine County (out side Ely City Limits) Discussion Only. Coster – this is for single seat atvs,
1. Driver must be a licensed driver. 2. Unlicensed driver must be accompanied by a licensed driver. 3. Lights must be on.
Language for 2016 Ballot Question potential increase in sales tax, motor vehicle fuel tax.
Language was not approved and tabled.
New rates for the golf course will increase the income to the golf course about $15,000 a year. Item approved
Steve Stork, Airport Manager asking for funds to replace the emergency generator. The old generator went out and is not repairable. A new generator will cost $77,000. Perea “Suggested to run a cable to Fire station one.” Coster “We have more problem with snow removal than power outages. I have no doubt that in White Pine County there was a day when cars lined up with headlights on.” Perea “We need to talk to Med flight.”
Not approved
Kathy Ricci, Human Resources:
Recruit and fill an equipment operator that became vacant on March 1.
Road department would like to forgo the 90 day waiting period. They are offering a lower wage to make up for the money saved in the 90 day waiting period.
Approved
(This the first waiver asked for after the commission voted to wait 90 days before advertising for a employee replacement. The rule is one month old. If they can hire someone at a lower rate by not waiting 90 days, they can do it waiting. The commission has a problem of giving waivers. They either don’t think out the rules set, or never intend to keep them.)
Public comment: Gary Perea gave George Chachas instructions on putting items on the agenda. Mike Coster wanted to know why his agenda item was removed with out a call (this is not the first time for this to happen).
I have had items removed. Now tell me George’s items will actually get on the agenda! Maybe this is why people do not participate in the county commissioners meeting. I know the Chairman can remove items, but I do think his reason for doing so should be made public, so there is no misconception of controlling the agenda.
Another concern of mine is when items are tabled, it can take up to a year before they come up again. I also have experienced this , 8 months. Sometimes they never come up.
Geri Wop
Once again I encourage you to call the commissioners and give them your thoughts, they need it.
Laurie Carson 293-3134
Mike Coster 293-2933
Richard Howe 287-2851
Carol McKenzie 238-5384
Gary Perea. 293-7356
