By Emily Wang, White River Now
The Independence County Quorum Court convened on Monday, to address various matters concerning the city’s governance and community affairs.
Chairman of the Independence County Library Board Bill Walmsley spoke to the court and emphasized the necessity of incorporating a full-time position into the budget, citing the recent expansion of library facilities to the third floor.
The library’s recent ventures, including successfully hosting a three-day “comic con” event, underscored the increased demand for its services. With 52 vendors and a daily attendance of roughly 800 individuals, the event demonstrated the library’s potential as a hub for community engagement and activities.
“During this event, we saw a good influx in rooms at hotels, motels, and restaurants,” said Walmsley. “We plan on making that an annual event. We put $15,000 together to put it on, and this year we will break even or show a slight profit. We are very pleased.”
In light of these developments, Walmsley proposed the addition of a full-time position to manage the developing responsibilities and activities at the library. He highlighted the library’s healthy financial status and expressed confidence in its ability to sustainably accommodate future endeavors.
“We intend to make the third-floor facilities available for anniversaries and birthday parties, using the kitchen and big meeting room,” said Walmsley.
The council approved the proposal, recognizing the need for adequate staffing to support the expanding scope of the library’s operations.
Following the discussion on new business, the council entered an executive session to address personnel matters.
Special reports were presented by Independence County Sheriff Shawn Stephens, focusing on inmate statistics and staffing challenges. Stephens addressed concerns regarding staffing shortages at the jail and efforts to mitigate the situation by reallocating personnel from other departments.
“The street positions are filled, but we are short four at the jail,” the sheriff told the court. “We’re having to pull some from the street to work at the jail to maintain our staff down there.”
The council proceeded to review and approve several ordinances. Notably, a motion to raise the salaries of chief deputy positions garnered attention. Citing discrepancies in pay rates compared to other counties, the council approved a measure to adjust chief deputy salaries to align with state averages. The motion aimed to address disparities and ensure equitable compensation for law enforcement personnel.
Due to the upcoming eclipse event, the next session is scheduled for Tuesday, April 9.
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