County allocates money for new post
Staff reporter
Marion County could be getting an economic development professional or even a county manager.
The Marion County Commission allocated funds in the 2005 budget for such a position Friday but did not decide exactly what the position would be.
Chairman Leroy Wetta told the commission he wanted to include an economic development position in the budget.
Commissioner Howard Collett commented that two of the three commission candidates in the 2004 election are in favor of such a position.
"I don't want to start a position and not have it carried out," Collett said. "I think we should budget a minimum of $50,000 for that position."
Wetta said the budget amount should be $50,000 to $60,000 and made another suggestion.
Instead of earmarking it just for an economic development position, the funds could be used for a county counselor or a county manager, Wetta said.
"Bonds are about paid off," Wetta said, and additional money has been allocated in the 2005 budget for various departments.
"The risk management fund (for landfill closure) will be at $350,000 by the end of the year," Wetta continued. "We have $180,000 available for the closure, which (engineer Jack Chappelle) said is sufficient. We can continue to work on roads, closure, and distribute funds to risk management."
Commissioner Bob Hein said he would "go for $50,000 in the budget, but I don't want to hire anyone."
Hein added people had talked to him about the position and were not in favor of it.
Collett asked County Clerk Carol Maggard whether restrictions could be placed on use of the money.
Maggard responded that if the commission wanted restrictions, the money would have to be independent of the general fund.
"The funds could be carried over to the next year or the line item could be done away with," Maggard said.
Collett said he wanted the money "earmarked for the position."
The commission approved to budget $50,000 in the 2005 budget for an economic development, county counselor, or county manager position.
"We're still not at the table for economic development issues," Collett said. "I sure would like to see us do something."
Collett suggested contracting with an economic development professional to avoid paying benefits.
Wetta asked what the commission's expectations would be, and to whom would the person report.
Collett answered that he wasn't sure.
Wetta said he also was concerned about the role of the Marion County Economic Development Council if a professional were hired.
"Basically, we're hiring an advocate for the cities," Wetta said.
Collett said he would like the commission to consider options and get something going before the end of the year.
"This was just a thought," Collett said. "We're not getting anywhere the way we're going."
