Kirklin council appoints Steve Jones as town marshal, sets six-month probation at $33 an hour

The Kirklin Town Council voted to appoint Steve Jones as town marshal and set his initial pay at $33 per hour for a six-month probationary period, to be reviewed at one year. The motion to set pay was moved and seconded and carried by a voice/hand vote; the council later voted to appoint Jones by voice/hand as well. Vote tallies were not specified in the transcript.

Council members described the choice as difficult and said both finalists expressed willingness in interviews to accept pay in the $33–$35 per hour range. One member said interview notes showed both candidates said they would accept “33 to 35.” The council discussed using a six-month probation followed by a one-year contract, consistent with previous marshal contracts.

Members debated whether the marshal position should return to full time and noted budget constraints, including the additional employer costs if restored to full-time status (for example, retirement/PERF contributions). The president said she would be unavailable to swear in a newly hired marshal between June 10 and June 24 and that the council could either finalize pay now and swear someone in when available or delay the pay decision until the June 8 meeting; the council moved forward and completed the appointment that night.

Council members thanked both candidates, identified as Steve and Jake in the record, and noted availability concerns for Jake because of other employment. Members also mentioned that several deputies may resign by the end of the year, which they said could affect staffing levels and coverage.

The council adjourned after addressing the marshal appointment and moving on to procurement items.