Commission approves jail budget amendment, OKs sale of surplus county equipment

Houston County commissioners approved two routine items during their May session, including a jail budget amendment and the sale of surplus county property.

The commission voted to amend the jail budget by $44,017.50 to purchase additional masks for the Houston County Jail, a measure moved by Commissioner James Ivy and seconded by Commissioner Adams. Chairman Brandon Chu called for the voice vote and the motion passed. The action followed earlier remarks noting an increased inmate population; Commissioner Ivy told the commission that the jail has "70 plus" corrections deputies and is overseeing "500 plus" inmates.

Why it matters: The amendment supplies protective equipment for correctional staff and inmates and was presented as a response to population pressures inside the jail. Officials did not provide a roll-call tally; the motion passed on a voice vote.

The commission also approved the sale of assorted surplus property—computer equipment (monitors, printers, modems), desks, filing cabinets, office chairs and a 1995 International garbage truck—after a motion, second and voice vote. The items were described on the agenda as surplus county property made available for sale.

Votes at a glance:
- Approval of minutes: motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Commissioner Harry; voice vote approved.
- Budget amendment (jail masks), $44,017.50: motion by Commissioner James Ivy, second by Commissioner Adams; passed by voice vote.
- Surplus property sale (computer equipment, desks, filing cabinets, chairs, 1995 International garbage truck): second by Commissioner Adams; passed by voice vote.

What’s next: The commission recorded the approvals in its minutes; no further deadline or additional action was specified during the meeting for either item.