Initsregularbi-monthly session of Monday, Nov. 25, 2024, the Kent County commissioners court dealt with most matters on its agenda swiftly but devoted more than two hours to an executive session focused on personnel matters and consulting with counsel.
Prior to the court’s entering executive session at 10:25 a.m., nursing home consultant Steve King reported on several routine business management matters but also said that the facility had received an IJ (immediate jeopardy) complaint and had since been “hyper-reporting” even minor incidents.
The nursing home, the only remaining countyowned and -managed nursing facility in the state, has long enjoyed a favorable reputation and its physical plant is regularly maintained and upgraded—including completing several major renovations noted by King.
In the meeting, King discussed the option of installing interior cameras, “so that you can take care of the residents by monitoring staff,” but that there were differing schools of thought on the issue.
King and administrator Nathan Smith noted that Kim Gleghorn has been hired as MDS Coordinator; there are still openings for nursing positions, and the facility is looking to work with Jayton-Girard ISD on high school classes for career interest in CNA jobs.
Also reported was an anticipated rate increase, to $165 per day.
Routine business conducted beginning at 9 a.m. included reading and approval of the previous meeting minutes (noting 456 votes cast in Kent County in the Nov. 5 general election); approval 2024 increments for staff year-end pay, as budgeted; approval of the 2025 paid holidays list for employees (which also appliestoKentCountyNursing Home employees); and payment of bills and approval of the treasurer’s report, all by unanimous vote.
On the agenda item for approval of 2025-27 Kent County Historical Commission appointees, a motion to accept was moved and approved before the printed roster could be distributed to all, and county clerk Craig Harrison noted afterward that some names had been omitted.
County Judge Layne Coulter reported on the purchase of used vans for the Nursing Home.
Coulter also provided an update on the county’s insurance claim from 2023 hailstorm damage. Installation of new metal on the airport hangar is complete, and Coulter is now obtaining bids on electrical work. He reported some problems with the installation of drainpipes. Extended discussion was conducted regarding finalizing repairs covered by insurance.
Following the executive session from 10:25 a.m. to 12:31 p.m., the court took no action on matters discussed.
Returning to other agenda items, the court unanimously approved a resolution for county fuel tax exemption; approved aninvestmentofPermanent SchoolFundsintheamount of $4,396.155 at Spur Security Bank, at a rate of 4%, for one year; and approved several requests for road and bridge work from Commissioner Ray Hall.
Court adjourned just before 1 p.m.
Present were County Judge Layne Coulter; commissioners Roy Chisum, Robert Graham, and Ray Hall, with commissioner Daryl Ham absent; commissioner-elect
and County Clerk Craig Harrison, County Attorney Aaron Clements, Treasurer Christy Long and Human Resources Manager Gina Coulter.
PATTONTHANKSGIVING Patton Springs ISD kicked off the holidays the week before Thanksgiving with many families visiting the school and having a holiday lunch there with their children. | COURTESY PHOTOS
