Finance committee advances resolution to establish full‑time public defender position; state share expected to cover most salary

The Finance Committee voted to forward a resolution to the county board that would establish a full‑time Lee County public defender position.

Charlie (county counsel) said he, Public Defender Thompson and Judge Acker had reviewed draft resolution language and that both supported the timeline and content. Committee members asked whether outside funding would cover part of the cost; staff said the state reimburses part of public defender salaries. Committee members noted the county’s proposed budget had already included related salary items.

Jeremy (county staff) said the state currently reimburses a portion of public defender salaries — a larger share as a position moves toward full‑time — and that making the position full‑time will increase state reimbursement such that the county’s incremental cost is expected to be modest compared to current part‑time staffing arrangements.

The committee moved the resolution forward by voice vote; no opposition was recorded.