County reviews clerk, museum and health department budgets; dental clinic and x‑ray coverage discussed

Commissioners reviewed several department budgets and service updates during the July 13 meeting.

Connie Pretzer (county clerk; Speaker 6) presented budget worksheets that included a proposed 2.5% raise for clerk's office staff and outlined election logistics: the primary is scheduled Aug. 4, early voting begins July 15, and a Saturday session is planned for July 25 (9 a.m.–noon). The clerk and commissioners discussed staffing and advance‑ballot timing as the office gears up for a busy election season.

Vicky Dawson (Speaker 7) of the Historical Society presented the museum's financial reports and asked the board to maintain or increase the county appropriation that funds utilities, insurance, building maintenance and payroll. Dawson said the museum has received the Studebaker title and is pursuing grant funding for an expanded renovation; the society plans a quarterly newsletter and a new historical sketches volume.

Rachel Jones (identified in the transcript; Speaker 8) told the board she may be trained as a temporary x‑ray provider at the clinic when the regular technician is on leave (anticipated about two months) and that dental‑clinic equipment is in place; the health department plans to begin monthly dental clinics in October and expand frequency as demand grows. "We're just planning on October, being able to serve people," Speaker 8 said regarding dental services.

Commissioners reviewed overall personnel and insurance lines and identified a likely shortfall in employee benefits that will require further attention as the budget process continues. The board flagged several lines for additional review and asked staff to return with refined numbers.

Next steps: staff will refine budget figures (including benefits and contractual lines) and return for follow‑up review at a future meeting.