L to R: Commissioners Corey Cockrell, Michael Williams Tennyson Smith, County Engineer Willie Branch, Jamichael Jones, Tauri Powell, Commissioners Lester Brown and Allen Turner

At their regular meeting on Monday September 12, 2016, the Greene County Commission recognized two employees – Jamichael Jones and Tauri Powell – for completing a five-year training and certification program to be bridge inspectors for the county.
The two men who live in Eutaw had to take periodic courses, a written examination and work under the supervision of the County Engineer or another previously certified inspector for five years. Willie Branch, County Engineer said, “We are very proud of these employees for completing this course. They will be able to take on additional responsibilities related to bridges in the county. As inspectors they have the power to close a bridge if they determine it is unsafe.”
The Commission also recognized three of its own members for training with the Alabama Local Government Training Institute. Commissioners Lester Brown and Michael Williams completed 120 hours of training and Commissioner Corey Cockrell completed 50 hours of training relative to the regulations, issues and concerns facing county government officials.
The Commission received and approved a detailed financial report from Paula Bird, Financial Officer. She reported that revenues and expenses for the eleven months of the fiscal year ending August 31, 2016 were in the 90 to 96% range, which closely matches the budgetary time period. Greene County has $4,072,710 cash in a variety of bank accounts not including accounts set up to retire bonds The Commission approved payment of $900,000 in bills and claims submitted.
The Commission appointed Shirley Ann Edwards (District 3) and Pinnia Hines (District 5) to the Greene County Hospital and Health System Board of Directors.
In other actions, the Commission:
• tabled consideration and approval of its 2016-2017 fiscal year budget, which begins on October 1;
• approved purchase of a Certificate of Deposit from Robertson Bank at 1.25% interest;
• approved purchase of a Boom Mower at $118,632.81 and an Asphalt Zipper at $108,990.00 for the Highway Department;
• approved travel for staff to various conferences and trainings;
• approved negotiating a loan with Merchants and Farmers Bank to purchase new trucks;
• approved a contract with the Department of Youth Services for youth detention services.