Blake Turman recognized longtime deputy Michael Cheshire with the Covington County Sheriff’s Meritorious Service Medal during a meeting of the Covington County Commission on Tuesday 25th April.

“He is a pro and we get lots of positive feedback about his work. This acknowledgement shows the qualities this man is composed of. The deputy Cheshire was on a routine patrol when he decided to check on a vehicle that was occupied near Red Oak Church. Red Oak Church. When he arrived, the driver fled to the direction of Deputy Cheshire and headed north on 55 towards Andalusia. The pursuit was characterized by high speeds and the deputy Cheshire stopped forcibly close to the city boundaries of Andalusia thus putting an end to the chase as well as saving the lives of those who were involved. The selfless act of Cheshire demonstrates what lies at the heart to the CCSO mission: serving and protect” Turman said.

Cheshire is currently a an officer of the patrol in the Sanford community.

“The CCSO has awesome leadership and is a fantastic workplace. Many people can’t affirm that they are satisfied at their job, however I am very happy working at the place I am in and serving the residents in Covington County.” He said.

The Revenue Commissioner Chuck Patterson stated there were 160 properties still listed as tax owing properties.

“Those who don’t pay their bills by Wednesday, May 17 at 10:00 a.m. will see their homes auctioned off in Courthouse’s front. If you know of anyone who are still unable to pay to the courthouse, remind them to make the payment,” he said.

The commission is looking for two open positions for board members for the South Central Alabama Mental Health Board. The terms are a six-year period and include mileage reimbursement.

The commission has approved the appropriation of $1500 to the Alabama Junior Rodeo Association. “This is for the Kindergarten to eighth grade. They take their finals in June. Therefore, the money is going for their rodeo finals” the administrator Karen Sowell said.

Covington County has offered assistance to the AJRA for a number of years. “They are able to make an impact on the communities they serve when they bring this event into Covington County.” the chairman Greg White said.

The commission analyzed three opportunities to be appointed for the Board of Equalization. Candidates must be qualified to serve, be a citizen within Covington County for a minimum period of five years, possess tax-exempt property within Covington County, register as a qualified voter and do not hold any official position or government post. Anyone interested can call the Commission or their Commissioner for further information.

In other businesses:

  • The commission endorsed purchasing a police vehicle with funds that were discretionary from the bid list for state bids.
  • The commission voted to approve travel outside of the state for commissioners who want to attend an international conference at Austin, Texas, and as well as out-of-state travel in order for employees of the Engineer’s Department to deliver auction items to Mississippi. Commission policy requires that travel outside of the state by County officials or employees has to be authorized by the commission at an open session.
  • The commission discussed the issue of inmate living arrangements with the sheriff and then approved postponing the implementation of this policy until Oct. 1. The commission will examine this issue in depth during future meetings.
  • The commission debated the possibility of signing agreements with Spyglass regarding the cost of technology solutions. There was no action taken and the commission decided to put off further discussions until the next meeting.
  • The commission endorsed an invitation to bid for dump and stone trucks that will be employed in engineers from the Engineer’s Department.
  • The commission voted in favor of the acceptance of a bid for recycled and new plastic pipe for Wallace Pump and Supply, the bidder with the lowest price.
  • The commission voted in favor of the awarding of an offer for plastic heavy-duty pipe Southern Pipe and Supply, the bidder with the lowest price.

Next meeting of Covington County Commission Covington County Commission is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, May 9 at 9 a.m. at Covington County Administration Building. Covington County Administration Building. The public is welcome to attend.

The article Honoring the Deputy at the Commission meeting. 160 homes are in arrears on tax payments appeared at The Andalusia Star-News.