By Julie Johansen
The first item on the agenda for the Emery County Commission on Tuesday, August 6, was the approval of the consent agenda. Listed on that agenda was the approval to hire Kaylee VanWagoner as the Aquatic Center Director, effective August 19. During the meeting, appreciation and recognition was given to Shannon Hiat for his many years of service at the Aquatic Center and other responsibilities for the county.
Only one bid was received for the restroom remodel at the County Administration Building. The bid was from Arrowhead Construction in the amount of $176,000, with an additional bid for infrastructure lines of $41,000. The bid was accepted.
A monetary donation to the Emery High School Rodeo Team in the amount of $250 was approved. This will make Emery County a Diamond Sponsor. Emery County’s participation in the Kroger Company National Opioid Settlement also received approval by the commission.
The 2025 Intergovernmental County Jail Agreement was approved. This agreement is with the state of Utah to house inmates here in Emery County and also includes the need for reimbursement by the state for these services. Emery County Sheriff Tyson Huntington commented that usually there are a 13 to 15 state inmates housed in the Emery County Jail.
Discussion on a plan of action to find a Watershed Project Manager was led by Jay Mark Humphrey from the Emery Water Conservancy District. He stated that all parties, the district, Emery County, Orangeville and NRCS, need to have an in person meeting to determine who this will be and the directions for this manager.
Several action items were tabled for further study and understanding by the commission before action will be taken at the next meeting.
During elected officials reports, Sheriff Huntington expressed sincere appreciation for all the help with the Search and Rescue Lamb Fry during the county fair. He stated that the funds raised will be used for equipment and training for the members of the team.