Scott County approves cemetery hire and asks board to draft governance revision on hiring authority

The Scott County Board of Commissioners approved July 1 the cemetery board’s recommendation to hire Ronald Cravens for a maintenance position and directed the cemetery board to draft proposed changes to its governing resolution regarding hiring authority and perpetual care fees.

During the meeting Jeremy, representing the cemetery board, explained the board lost an employee and selected a candidate after an interview process, saying, “His name was Ronald Cravens, I believe,” and requested commissioner approval to put him into the position so Richard — the remaining staffer — could get help. The commissioners moved, seconded and approved the hire by voice vote.

Separately, commissioners and county staff discussed whether the cemetery board currently has authority to hire staff without seeking county approval and whether a previous enabling resolution or ordinance sets that authority. One official noted the board had created a resolution in 2024 (or 2025 in transcript) but that older records were unclear. The commissioners agreed it would be prudent for the cemetery board to draft specific amendment language and return it to the board for formal consideration rather than making an on-the-spot ordinance change.

The cemetery board also requested permission to add a second part-time maintenance worker for coverage; commissioners supported exploring that option and indicated available unappropriated funds in the cemetery line might be used. Officials said the board would return to the commissioners or council with a written proposal and supporting minutes for any formal change in authority or fees.

The hire was approved at the meeting; the governance amendment remains subject to a later written proposal and formal action.