By Carolyn Reid
The vote for a budget amendment demonstrated the divide among PC Fiscal Court again Tuesday as Districts 2 and 3 Magistrates Josh Plummer and Darrin Gregg refused to approve paying for the land for a new station, forcing Judge/Executive David Fields to once again break a tie vote.
The purchase of the land itself, a five-acre plot just north of Pendleton County High School, resulted in similar circumstances when Plummer and Gregg voted to approve the payments of all bills except for the land.
Fields explained all had been completed, and the bill needs to be paid, but they maintained their stance in a roll-call vote that resulted in Fields breaking the tie.
The court, following up on its discussion about county lawn care, received quotes from Anderson Equipment, Duff and John Deere as they looked at the possible purchase of a zero-turn mower for county use.
Anderson’s quote of $3,600 for a stick-steered mower and mulching kit was most attractive to the court. Other quotes came from Anderson for a heavy-duty zero-turn with a steering wheel, Duff for $6,000 and John Deere for $17,000, $12,800 or $13,000-$14,000 with a mulch kit. District 4 Magistrate Rick Mineer questioned the warranty on the Anderson mower while Plummer said he thought that would likely be the best option since they were looking to see if this was the better option.
After Mineer questioned the warranty again, Fields contacted Anderson. Anderson needed to get specifics on the warranty, so the court tabled the discussion until that information was available.
In other business, the court approved the Household Hazardous Waste Grant, which requires a match. The court gave the judge/executive permission to sign the agreement when it comes in.
Fields reported the 2022 Land, Sand and Gravel Tax Settlement that had been received and distributed among the four districts.
The county budget was amended to include $95,000 from the sale of the ambulance building on Shelby, and they held the first reading. Once the second reading and approval take place, the money will be reserved for transfers.
Karen Crozier was appointed to the Pendleton County Library Board. This appointment fills all seats on that board.
In comments, the court questioned if the Economic Development Director position had been posted. It has not.
District 1 Magistrate Alan Whaley reported progress on the bridge, and the landowner needed help with the gates.
Mineer said he and Whaley had discussed planning and zoning issues with County Attorney Stacy Sanning, including penalties they believe need to be clarified and levied.
Fields said if landowners are given a violation, they should be pulled into court.
Mineer said he would like to get a report since they have not had one for some time.
He cited an issue that has been in place for four years with no action, and Whaley suggested adding language to planning and zoning and to the ordinance, as well.
The next meeting of PC Fiscal Court will be at 6 p.m. on March 12.