Commission defers executive director offer for James Bo Ethridge pending background checks

Chair Lloyd Ronnie Newsome moved to offer the executive director position to James Bo Ethridge and asked for a second; the nomination prompted immediate public and commissioner questions about salary, vetting and the hiring process.

A member of the public asked, "Did you decide the salary yet?" which prompted commissioners to note the commission previously set a salary range of about $250,000 to $300,000 but that final salary would be negotiated with the selected candidate.

Several commissioners said they wanted background checks completed before any formal offer. "I would request to defer where we can work through some of these questions," said Commissioner Schultz, recommending a two‑week deferral so the background checks could be completed by a third party. Other commissioners raised concerns about the size of the candidate pool, the search‑firm process and whether the commission should wait for a permanent executive director to make contracting decisions.

Chair Newsome agreed to initiate an independent background check through a third party recommended by the search firm and the body deferred the resolution to offer the appointment so those checks can be completed and additional commissioners can participate.

Next steps: staff will begin a third‑party background check and return the appointment item to the commission for a future vote. Commissioners indicated the final salary will be negotiated within the previously set range and that any offer would follow the background‑check outcome.

No final offer was accepted at the meeting; the item is deferred for follow up.