Board approves two medical examiner positions; costs shared with neighboring counties

Jackson County commissioners voted Sept. 23 to add two positions in the county medical examiner's office: a new lead medical investigator and a part‑time lead pathology assistant. County finance materials estimated the lead investigator position would add about $92,955.77 annually in total cost; the county's share of that expense was estimated at roughly 40 percent, or just under $40,000.

Commissioners discussed timing and budgetary risk, with several members urging delay until December to avoid committing recurring costs with 25 percent of the fiscal year remaining. Commissioner Baer argued the timing was premature and that approvals could worsen a potential year‑end shortfall.

The county noted that cost-sharing agreements split morgue and medical examiner costs among three counties according to usage; the county’s share is proportional to the number of bodies handled from each county.

After discussion, the board approved the lead investigator position by roll call. The board also approved the part‑time lead pathology assistant; the county's estimated share of that second position was $16,943.90.

Commissioners who opposed the actions cited fiscal-priority concerns; both votes passed by the board (each recorded as 5–4). Finance staff noted the medical examiner cost is a shared service with neighboring counties and that the interlocal agreement allocates variable costs by activity and includes a fixed-asset component for the county that hosts the morgue.

The board directed staff to proceed with implementation and to coordinate with the participating counties on cost allocation and hiring timing.