During a recent government meeting, officials discussed funding for new voting machines and aerial mapping for the assessor's office, highlighting the importance of both initiatives for the county's operations.
The meeting began with a focus on the clerk's request for 40 new voting machines, totaling $56,000. A motion was made to not fund the purchase for the upcoming fiscal year, with one official expressing concerns about the stability of voting machines amid national election issues. The official suggested that if the county were to invest in new machines, it should do so comprehensively rather than in parts. They also proposed exploring alternative funding sources, such as grants, for these one-time expenses rather than using ongoing budget allocations.
Following the discussion on voting machines, the conversation shifted to the assessor's request for aerial mapping services, which would cost $50,000. The assessor emphasized the need for updated aerial photos every two to three years to accurately measure property changes, particularly in light of anticipated solar developments in the area. The mapping would enhance the county's ability to assess property values and streamline the permitting process.
Officials acknowledged the significance of both proposals, with the assessor noting that the new mapping technology would allow for detailed analysis of properties, potentially reducing the need for manual inspections. The meeting concluded without a final decision on the funding, indicating that further discussions and considerations would be necessary before the budget is finalized.