Perry County council delays clerk-hiring decision after public commenters press for immediate action

Mary Kay Elder, a public commenter, asked the Perry County Council on April 22 whether the council had decided to allow Joan to hire a clerk, saying the office was swamped and needed help. The council chair responded that the item would remain tabled until the May meeting so the council attorney and Sheriff Falconburg can review files and ensure the county is protected before any hiring.

The chair told the meeting that the draft ordinance amending county reimbursement by detainees arrived late and required review, and that delaying the clerk hiring matter will give the attorney time to assess lawsuits or filings that the council may not be aware of. "It is going to continue to be tabled until May meeting," the chair said.

Tracy Benet, another commenter, said she filed for unemployment benefits after being terminated and presented an unemployment commission finding that the claimant "was not discharged for just cause," urging the council to consider rehiring. Julie Rickberg said last year the prosecutor's office filled a comparable vacancy within 30 days and asked the council to add the deputy-clerk discussion back onto the agenda.

Council members framed the delay as a fiscal-protection measure. One council member noted upcoming property tax relief will tighten the county budget and said the council must consider fiscal health before approving new hires. Council member David referred to an established process and said the postponement allows staff and counsel to review financial and legal implications.

The council invited the public to submit questions by email and said the matter will be revisited at the May meeting. No formal vote on hiring was taken at the April 22 meeting.