In its first regular monthly session of Feb. 10, 2025 the Kent County Commission handled a diverse agenda of business.
County Judge Layne Coulter reported that recent work on the airport hangar, covered under an insurance claim from 2023, has been approved, with only a few tasks remaining. Regarding repairs to the courthouse building from the same storm, Coulter said the roofer should be here in Jayton that week.
The court considered the monthly financial report for January 2025 and approved payment of bills.
A question arose as to whether the county should pay for training updates for Emergency Management Services staff.
Sheriff William Scogin presented the Racial Profiling Report.
Discussion arose regarding an inquiry via the General Land Office on purchasing 2 blocks belong to the State (Lots 1 & 2 Block 2 OT Jayton); the GLO by law had to notify county because the county owns and uses the adjoining lots as the county dump site lots. Coulter advised the court to discuss the amount later in a closed meeting regarding real property transactions.
Coulter mentioned a county employee’s request for a change in structure of workday hours, but said he was inclined to deny it as setting an unfair precedent for other staff.
Human resources director Regina Coulter discussed a possible workers’ comp case that resulted in need for an X-ray but requested the county simply pay the bill rather than submitting a workers’ comp case. No action was taken.
Coulter introduced a request from Jayton-Girard ISD to open up another certificate of deposit in the amount of $1 million. Commissioner Robert Graham moved to invest the funds at Kent County State Bank at the rate of 4% for one year. The motion was seconded and approved unanimously.
Regarding the county’s option to participate in an Opioid Abatement Participation Resolution class action against Kroger, a motion was made, seconded, and approved to join the suit.
For the Kent County Nursing Home report, administrator Nathan Smith reported cleanout of unused equipment that had been stored in an on-site seabin, including expired/ soon to expire Covid-19 prevention supplies; an old upright piano no longer in use; several tables; and a barbecue grill.
There was some discussion of landscaping decisions at the facility; it was noted that replacing pebbles with artificial turf would cost an estimated $4,000. Commissioner Graham advised, “Do not let the trees die.” A flu outbreak reported, but no site investigation was required.
Smith reported that the recent IDR case was not ruled in the facility’s favor; no penalty had yet been set.
The facility hired two new PRN nurses. Four new beds were purchased, including one for a patient who was able to substantially improve self-mobility with new bed. A new exercise bicycle was purchased as well.
A community-wide entertainment, “Jayton Idol,” has been set for April 11, 2025.
Approval was made for requested uses of road machinery.
At 10:40 court adjourned and entered executive session to discuss a transfer of property; court did not reconvene until after noon.
