The Chickasaw County Board of Supervisors convened on November 25, 2024, to discuss various operational matters, particularly focusing on staffing and budget considerations for the Medical Examiner's Investigative (MEI) department.

The meeting began with a review of the current job description for MEIs, which was deemed too rigid. A proposal was made to revise the job description to better align with state exemptions, allowing for potential hiring flexibility. The discussion highlighted the challenges of managing case loads, with an average of 50 investigative deaths reported annually. The board acknowledged that increasing the number of MEIs might not significantly impact costs, as the county pays per case investigated. However, it was noted that having more personnel could alleviate the burden on existing staff during peak times.

Financial implications were a key focus, with the total budget for the MEI department set at $45,600. As of mid-November, expenditures were tracking at approximately $3,000 to $4,000 per month. The board discussed the need for careful budgeting, especially considering the unpredictable nature of case numbers. It was emphasized that the MEIs are motivated by service rather than compensation, which is relatively low at $2.25 per case plus mileage for vendors.

The meeting also addressed scheduling logistics, confirming that all MEIs are on a rotation system to ensure coverage. This system is designed to prevent gaps in availability, particularly when staff members are engaged in training or other commitments.

In conclusion, the board's discussions underscored the importance of adapting job roles and managing budgets effectively to maintain essential services in the county. The next steps will involve drafting a revised job description and continuing to monitor budgetary needs as the fiscal year progresses.