Morgan County Council approves part-time clerk and prosecutor positions amid staffing challenges

The Morgan County Council convened on May 21, 2025, to address several key personnel matters and legislative updates, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance county operations and services. The meeting featured a light agenda but underscored significant staffing needs in critical departments.

One of the primary discussions centered around a request to fill a part-time position in the clerk's office. Tammy Parker, the clerk, explained that the position was necessary to assist with the ongoing scanning project aimed at digitizing records. This initiative, which Parker noted has already saved the county approximately $500,000 compared to outsourcing the work, is expected to continue until the county relocates, likely by July. The council unanimously approved the request, recognizing the importance of maintaining momentum in the scanning project.

In a related staffing matter, the council also considered a request from the prosecutor's office to fill a supervisory position in the child support division. Following the retirement of long-serving employee Bob Heggie, Amanda Kester, who has been managing the division, received a job offer that she could not refuse. The child support division, which oversees over 1,700 open cases and has collected approximately $1.75 million in support to date, is crucial for many families in Morgan County. The need for additional staffing is pressing, as the current team of two attorneys is often overwhelmed, managing multiple court schedules and preparing necessary legal documentation.

The prosecutor's office emphasized the essential nature of this supervisory role, which not only involves managing personnel but also ensuring compliance with state reporting requirements and enhancing the effectiveness of child support collections. The council acknowledged the vital role this position plays in supporting families and maintaining the integrity of the child support system.

Overall, the council's discussions highlighted the importance of strategic staffing decisions in enhancing county services and addressing community needs. As the council moves forward, the successful filling of these positions will be critical in ensuring that the county can continue to provide essential services effectively.