The Eupora Board of Aldermen approved the hiring of a new police officer during a special-called meeting Thursday.
Police Chief Gregg Hunter recommended the board hire Kenneth Scott of Vardaman as a full-time officer to fill a vacancy. He is now a full-time certified officer with the Calhoun City Police Department.
Hunter, whose recommendation came after conducting applicant background checks and interviews, said Scott, 38, comes highly recommended. Aldermen voted to hire him as a new officer effective immediately at the rate of $16 an hour. They waived the in-county residency requirement because Scott will be providing his own transportation to and from Calhoun County.
The board met in executive session about seven minutes for the matter of personnel after hearing Hunter's recommendation but before voting to hire Scott.
Aldermen also accepted a quote from Trimble for water meter location software and GPS receivers. A company representative made a presentation to the board last month.
This will help the Water Department locate water meters, manholes and sewer system valves. The cost from the sole-source provider, including a discount for March, is $13,470. The city will also have to pay the Geographical Information Systems Department at the Golden Triangle Planning and Development District for associated mapping.
The board voted to table ballpark discussion indefinitely, in part because Park Director Rusty Bowen was not present. Ward 4 Alderman Robert Gibbs was also absent.
