JACKSBORO, TN (WLAF) – The cloud of the Coronavirus hung over the Campbell County Commission meeting Monday night, as commissioners dealt with several necessary matters despite the proclamation coming out of Washington that Americans must avoid gatherings of over 10 people to avoid spreading the disease.  WATCH the meeting here.

All that was required to remind the commissioners of the serious nature of the virus was the absence of Whit Goins, Carl Douglas and Sue Nance, all remaining at home due to health conditions that put the three at high risk.

Commissioners went to work to tackle several important matters, including the still-closed animal shelter and some emergency repairs for the sanitation department.

The commission, as indicated at last week’s workshop, voted unanimously to solicit bids to reseal the porous walls and floor of the shelter. Finance Director Jeff Marlow told commissioners that by approving the motion to advertise for bids in the March 19 newspaper, a contractor could be selected on April 9.

The commission also approved six budget amendments and added an extra spending measure, approving a $4,000 amendment in the sanitation budget to pay for replacement of the gate and fencing at the White Oak convenience center. The gate was pulled off its hinges and destroyed late at night by vandals according to sanitation committee chairman Ralph Davis. Insurance will cover all costs except for a $1,000 deductible.

Davis also brought several other sanitation matters before the commission, including approval to replace two dilapidated buildings at the Oswego and White Oak centers and approval to hire a certified mechanic to service sanitation vehicles. All motions were approved unanimously.

The commission also voted to take advantage of the lowering of interest rates by the Federal Reserve to head off a looming recession caused by the virus.

Commissioners unanimously approved a bond resolution for $21 million that will re-finance the county’s debt at lower interest rates and save a considerable amount, enabling the county to pay off the remaining debt from roof and heating and air projects for county and school buildings by 2030.

The commissioners also voted for a motion by Robert Higginbotham to negotiate with TVA for increasing parking space and adding docks at several lake access areas including Mattie Randolph Hollow and Well Springs.

Finally, commissioners re-established the county solid waste board, appointing themselves as the 15-member board required by the State of Tennessee.

John McRae of TDEC was at the meeting to explain that Campbell County needed to approve its comprehensive solid waste plan in order to remain in compliance and eligible for state funds. The rub was that the county’s solid waste board must approve the plan but that board has not met in years and most members’ terms have expired, while the plan must be approved by the end of March.

Sanitation Director Bill Rutherford told commissioners that he has been in contact with the state, and Campbell County has already received a 30 day extension on the deadline to approve the plan.

The commission then adjourned. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 03/17/2020-6AM)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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