Commission Agenda Highlights Wide-Ranging Issues

The Lawrence County Commission will meet Tuesday, Sept. 23, at 5 p.m. in Courtroom A of the Lawrence County Courthouse. Commissioners face a full agenda that ranges from school support and public safety to economic development and animal welfare. One of the most-watched resolutions is a request for $800,000 to help fund a multi-purpose building with a gym floor at Lawrence County High School. Officials said the decision is being delayed so that similar needs across the county can be considered together. The discussion comes as the county recently learned it has $1.5 million more than expected in its general fund after year-end closeouts. Another major financial item is a $161,000 transfer to the Economic Development Corporation of Lawrence County. The funds, combined with a state grant, would be used to purchase property at Hagan Road and Highway 43 to support utility expansion tied to a new 151-acre industrial site. Commissioners also plan to honor a 2018 agreement to provide the agency with $100,000 annually for such projects. On the nonprofit front, commissioners will consider restoring $10,000 in additional funding for Friends of Lawrence County Animals’ spay/neuter program, known as SNIPS! Advocates say the money would help provide surgeries for about 135 pets, reducing overpopulation in the county. Education-related items include a $7,100 request to help high school students attend state SkillsUSA competitions and recognition of Summertown High School student Cavan Love for his success in welding competitions. Commissioners will also weigh a resolution to place gates on West College Street in front of Summertown High School, closing the section during school hours for safety. Other business includes a proposal to add a $12.50 fee to all criminal court costs to help fund the District Attorney’s office, annual elections for Commission officers, and reappointments of Brandi Williams as Director of Accounts & Budgets and Charlie Holt as County Attorney. The meeting is open to the public, with time allotted for citizen comments at the start.