Sheriff asks for reserve-deputy program; board sets April 20 public hearing on Ordinance No. 42

The Carroll County sheriff told the board the county should set up a limited reserve-deputy program so a recently retired deputy could return in a transport role and provide experienced help without full duties. The sheriff said a reserve deputy would be barred from processing OWI stops and would call for backup in those cases but would otherwise be able to patrol, carry a weapon and serve papers.

The board discussed liability concerns and the limited scope of the proposal. The sheriff said the intent was not to create a broad reserve corps but to allow one deputy with 29 years’ experience to do occasional work. Board members noted other counties use reserve programs and that the position can be structured from volunteer to hourly pay; the sheriff said the deputy would be paid hourly with no county benefits.

The board voted to set a public hearing and first reading of Ordinance No. 42 for April 20 at 9:00 a.m. and indicated the option to waive later readings at future meetings.

What happens next: The ordinance will receive a public hearing on April 20, at which residents may comment and the board may take additional action.