The Marion County Commission on Dec. 26 approved routine fiscal items including payroll, vendor invoices and encumbrances while also noting a sales tax deposit and a vendor refund.

Commissioner (S4) reported sales tax receipts of $102,510.81 and noted a refund from Bridal Speed had been included in the packet. The board approved an Elcon Services invoice for $2,310 after a motion by Commissioner (S7) and second; the motion carried.

A payroll disbursement (GRAMA total pay) of $1,571,494.92 was reported and a motion to approve it passed by a 3–2 vote. Commissioners discussed whether current signature and review practices complied with state statute regarding county legal counsel presence when bills and accounts are presented (statute cited in discussion: 19‑7‑16), and some members raised concerns about process and timing of packets.

The commission reviewed encumbrances described in the packet as $43,956 and later moved to encumber $44,906; commissioners approved the encumbrance motion. Board members noted that encumbering funds holds money in the budget but does not authorize actual purchases until further steps are taken.

Votes on the fiscal items included both unanimous and split tallies depending on the item; commissioners did not place a formal hold on the fiscal approvals while the legal review of the appointment matter proceeds.

Next steps: routine fiscal oversight will continue via the commission’s regular payroll and claims process; commissioners also directed staff to solicit proposals for county counsel, which could affect future claims review procedures.