Clay County approves MOU for school resource officer and various departmental hires

The Clay County Board of Commissioners meeting on July 8, 2025, focused on several key topics, including the approval of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for a school resource officer, staffing changes in various departments, and budget considerations for the upcoming year.

One of the primary discussions involved the approval of a three-year MOU with the Ewell and Hitterdahl School District for a school resource officer (SRO). Sheriff’s representatives highlighted the importance of the SRO role in fostering relationships with students and providing security. The current deputy, who has been effective in this role, is resigning, prompting the need for a replacement. The MOU stipulates that the deputy will work 10 hours a week during the school year, a reduction from previous years due to budget constraints. The motion to approve the MOU was passed unanimously by the commissioners.

The meeting also addressed staffing needs in the county. A request was made to hire a full-time deputy auditor for the motor vehicle department to fill a recent vacancy. The board approved this request, anticipating a slight savings in wages due to the new hire starting at a lower step on the salary scale.

Additionally, a social worker position in the child protection services was discussed. The need to replace this position was emphasized due to the critical nature of the role in ensuring child safety and compliance with legal requirements. The board approved the motion to fill this position, recognizing the challenges faced by social workers in the field.

The meeting included discussions on budget proposals for the 2026 fiscal year. The Land Records Department requested approval for expenses totaling $105,000, which was consistent with previous years. This funding will support various departmental needs, including software and maintenance costs. The board also approved a fee increase for online real estate records to cover rising operational costs.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to maintaining essential services and addressing staffing needs while navigating budgetary constraints. The board's decisions reflect a proactive approach to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community, particularly in educational and child protection contexts.