County Considers Raise for Belew
The Glasscock County Commissioners’ Court on Feb. 9 discussed a pay raise for Family and Consumer Service Agent Charlene Belew. Belew had asked the court at a Jan. 26 meeting for a temporary increase of one-half former agriculture agent Steve Sturtz’ salary, since she is handling half of his work load in the absence of an ag agent. That increase would amount to $858 per month. She said Warren Multer is helping with the workload, assuming approximately half of Sturtz’ responsibilities. The county was paying Sturtz $20,600 per year, while Belew is paid $12,100. [These amounts are in addition to whatever the state pays the agents.]
Commissioner Mark Halfmann said he would prefer a smaller, but permanent, raise for Belew, and the other court members seemed to agree. The court discussed the disadvantages of giving a larger, but temporary, raise, then having to reduce it when an ag agent is hired. The proposed permanent raise seemed likely to be set at $2,400 to $3,000 annually, but since the matter was not on the court’s agenda, no official action was taken.
Belew reported that all is going well with the extension office, even though this is a very busy season. She called the local 4-H program “awesome,” and enumerated several ongoing projects, including major stock shows, where local kids have had success. She is excited that local 4-H’ers are being assisted in livestock judging training by the Howard College agriculture instructor, and with skits (preparation, performance, costumes and props) by a woman associated with Permian Playhouse in Odessa.
Belew also highlighted programs in the local elementary school, including her nutrition program for head starters and their parents, a white tail deer information program, and one involving egg incubation.
County Money Moved Out of Local Bank
Roger Williams of the Sterling City Bank, Garden City Branch, came to the court meeting and spoke in Open Forum to ask if there was a problem with the bank’s service, noting that most of the county’s funds have been moved to TexPool. County Treasurer and Investment Officer Alan Dierschke said the only problem was with interest rates, which he said, “… are killing us.” He said having the rate tied to the 90-day T-bill rate (less 25 basis points) was hurting more than he could have imagined three years ago when the county negotiated its agreement with the local bank. Dierschke added that the state wants local government investments diversified. Dierschke said some money might be moved back, and that he would like to discuss the possibilities with Williams.
Mark Halfmann and Joe Calverley reported that the Garden City Cemetery Fence Committee has to-scale drawings of its proposed new entrance and fence. They said the committee is waiting on final plans for the arch in order to begin construction.
At a Jan. 26 meeting, commissioners approved an emergency management plan prepared by Emergency Management Coordinator Kenny Batla.