TRANE gives update on courthouse construction

The commissioners held a brief end-ofthe- month meeting last Thursday, where they awarded a bid for election ballots to Midwest Printing for a one-year period. Also approved were the minutes from the previous meeting, a submitted utility permit from OneOK for District 1, and the payment of claims.

The board also held a lengthy discussion regarding payroll changes for county employees. Those talks continued into Monday’s meeting, where the board ultimately voted to move all county employees to a bi-weekly pay schedule – effective during the pay period beginning in February of 2024 – and requiring those employees to have ACH before the effective date.

By approving this now, the board is hoping it will give them time to communicate these changes to the affected employees and make for an easier transition. They can also seek advice from surrounding counties that have made similar changes.

Jason Davey of TRANE Heating and Air was at Monday’s meeting to give an update of the work being done at the courthouse. He said that they’re making good progress. Most recently, they’ve begun demolishing old electrical equipment and replacing the exterior windows. Davey said that all window air conditioning units will also be removed.

There was more discussion about establishing a committee to explore viable land for an industrial park. Commissioner Erik Zoellner voiced his support for establishing a “steering committee” or study group as long as current OADC Director Court Newkirk volunteers his time as well. ADA Greg Stidham recommended that they look to add a city official to the study group as well.

— Also Approved

• Reimbursement claims for the election board secretary’s salary and district attorney

• 324A claims for the Bristlecone Rd. project

• A transfer of funds for an error of corrections – Officers’ reports from the health department and county clerk’s office for the month of November were also approved, as were the following purchase orders: Health department – Amazon for $3,000, Muscogee Nation for $500; General government – lawn care for $600; Cookson-Hills for $1,500; Emergency Management – lawn care for $400; District One – S&H Auto for $1,000; District Three – O’Reilly’s for $800.