County addresses employee longevity

Andrew Wigger, The Newberry Observer, S.C.
·2 min read

Sep. 7—NEWBERRY COUNTY — Newberry County Council adopted a resolution that officially recognizes employees for their longevity with Newberry County.

"We all desire to recognize our employees at every opportunity we get, this resolution addresses longevity for employees that stay with the county for long periods of time," said County Administrator Christopher Inglese.

The resolution not only provides that every five years employees will be recognized at Newberry County Council meetings and given a certificate and pin, a long-standing practice already, but also provides a salary adjustment.

The salary adjustment will be given every 10 years and was originally a 1% adjustment; a salary adjustment was already given every 10 years but was not based on a percentage. However, following discussion from members of council, Councilperson Mary Arrowood recommended that it be a 1% salary adjustment up to $500.

"That would still be equal or better than the old way," she said.

Arrowood made this into a motion, that was seconded by Councilperson Travis Reeder and the resolution was approved unanimously.

Other business:

—Council approved third and final reading of an ordinance establishing procedures and requirements for entering into development agreements in Newberry County. A public hearing was also held and no one spoke for or against.

—Council approved third and final reading of an ordinance to rezone 3.87 acres (located on SC Highway 39, Chappells) from R2-Rural to General Commercial.

—Council approved second reading of an ordinance for the purpose of leasing out certain county fairgrounds property. As previously reported, this will rent out storage space to a local industry at $4,500 for an 18-month term lease.

—Council approved Mauldin and Jenkins to conduct the external audit for Newberry County at the price of $60,000, for one year. Originally, the bid for the external audit was $65,000; however, following discussion with the firm, the price was reduced by $5,000. The county budgeted $41,000 for the external audit, but Inglese said he thinks the county can absorb the difference.

Reach Andrew Wigger @ 803-768-3122 or on Twitter @TheNBOnews.