Lynn County tables hiring of part-time deputy bailiff amid budget and staffing questions

The Lynn County Commissioners Court on Feb. 9 tabled action on hiring a part-time deputy to serve as a district and county court bailiff and provide courthouse security.

Sheriff's Office representatives, recorded in the meeting minutes as Chief Deputy Hennsley and Chris Hennsley, explained staffing needs and said the department has two current openings (one open since November) and applications are coming in. They said unused portions of an administrative salary line and other line items could be used to fund the temporary hire. The proposed part-time position was described in the agenda as paid at the county budgeted deputy hourly salary of $26.791 per hour, estimated at or below $8,000 annually.

County Treasurer Amy Schuknecht raised budget-process constraints and noted that some salary changes are not permitted during the fiscal year once set in the budget session. She also reported that the Communications budget is over on temporary help and overtime (106.19% used), and that inmate-housing revenue sometimes reimburses overtime costs. Commissioners discussed the interplay of admin salary, overtime and promotions; Judge Pro-Tem John Hawthorne noted that Judge Mike Braddock preferred a full court before action.

Following the discussion, Commissioner Larry Durham moved to table the agenda item and Commissioner Tate Gass seconded; the motion carried with all members present voting in favor.

Chief Deputy Hennsley also gave the Sheriff's Office report earlier in the meeting: total inmates 42 (32 in Lynn County, 2 in Lubbock, 9 in Potter). No final hiring decision was made; the court postponed action to a later date.