MonticelloLive

The Drew County Quorum Court met Monday night, in a slightly shorter than usual meeting, with students from UAM as guests.

The financial report was first on the agenda, which was approved by the court.  It was noted that sales tax collections are up.

Carole Bulloch gave a brief report from the Arkansas State County Association.  She mentioned the proposed 4 year election terms that some on the state level are supporting.  She also told the group that it was stated at the meeting that Quorum Courts are a “legislative body” and therefore can’t be sued personally for claims relating to their official capacity.  She also reported that “turnback” funds can only be used for projects to be done, but rather for projects that have already been mandated by the state, or other agency.

Senator Mike Ross’ March 27 bio-fuels information meeting at UAM was also mentioned by County Judge Damon Lampkin.

J.P. Ron Echols asked about whether Quorum Court members would be covered on the county’s new insurance policy, which specifies “30 hour or more” work weeks for full-time employees.  Judge Lampkin told the group that he would get an answer.

Drew Memorial Hospital Administrator, Richard Goddard, gave the hospital’s Januray financial report, but did tell the court that “things have improved during February.” 

Goddard was asked several questions by the group, including items like “60 day billing start-up”, and “is billing done in-house, or out-sourced?” 

Goddard answered that the first bills are sent out by the hospital, and after 60 days, they are turned over to an outside collector.  He also told the court that it sometimes can take up to 45-60 days for the first bill to be sent, due to record compilation, and coding and billing procedures to be completed.  Ron Echols asked if it takes 45 days for a bill to be mailed, and Mr. Goddard replied, “It normally doesn’t.”

The hospital’s grant of $4441,000 and it’s proposed uses was mentioned, and the court was told that it would be for, “construction, and medical and technical equipment.” 

Several resolutions were passed by the court, which will show support of local agencies, in their efforts to gain state funding for upcoming projects.

Those projects include:

The Drew County Fair Board, asking for a grant of $9,380, to upgrade the kitchen area to “commercial quality” appliances.  Bobby Hood, representing the Fair Board, told the group that during the Katrina evacuation, that it became evident that what is out there now will not be enough, in the event of an emergency, if people have to be housed at the fairgrounds.  The improved kitchen facilities will also be helpful for groups that use the fairgrounds from time to time for meetings and activities.

Drew Memorial, requesting $64,421, for parking lot expansion.

Valley Fire Dept., wanting $5,275, to build a training room at the Greenhill station.

Collins-Cominto Fire Dept., seeking $5,000, to purchase fans, a floating pump, and 6 wildland suits.

Lacey-Ladelle Fire Dept, needing $6,352, for air tanks and face masks.

Clear Creek, hoping to receive $5,400, complete the inside of their station with a training room, and a restroom.

And finally, Selma Fire Dept. seeking $5,904, to purchase turnouts, hoses and fittings, and protection suits.

Members of UAM’s American National Government class were present at the meeting, in order to view “Government in action.”

Members of the class included; Brent McGehee, Heather Pittillo, and Chris Wright.