During the Bracken County Fiscal Court meeting on November 27, 2024, key discussions centered around personnel appointments and the compensation of election poll workers, reflecting the court's commitment to community service and electoral integrity.

The meeting commenced with the reappointment of Evelyn Cooper to the Bracken County Library Board, effective January 16, 2025, for a four-year term. The motion for her reappointment was unanimously supported, although one member, Heather Brumley, abstained due to a familial connection. This reappointment highlights the court's ongoing efforts to maintain experienced leadership within local institutions.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the compensation for election poll workers. County Clerk Jennifer Free provided an overview of the recent election, noting a commendable voter turnout of approximately 62.58%. She presented a request from the Bracken County Board of Elections to increase poll worker pay from $125 to $175 for Election Day, along with maintaining the $25 training fee, raising the total compensation to $200. This adjustment aims to better reflect the demanding nature of the work, as poll workers typically work around 14 hours on Election Day, effectively earning about $9 per hour under the current pay structure. The proposed increase would raise their hourly wage to approximately $13.

The board emphasized the critical role poll workers play in ensuring smooth electoral processes, especially in a challenging election environment. The court members expressed support for the proposed pay increase, recognizing the importance of adequately compensating those who contribute significantly to the democratic process.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored Bracken County's dedication to enhancing local governance through strategic appointments and fair compensation for essential services. The anticipated approval of the pay increase for poll workers reflects a broader commitment to valuing community involvement and ensuring the integrity of future elections.