After reviewing several proposals for EMS/ambulance service, the Choctaw County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously, at their meeting, Monday, November 19, to request a copy of a contract from Pafford Medical, and have that contract forwarded to the Clerk of the Board, Steve Montgomery, and the Board Attorney, Kasey Young, and then have the contract forwarded to each of the supervisors.
It was noted that Pafford Medical operates in a few different states including Arkansas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Mississippi, and has been in business since 1967.
The Hospital Board of Trustees spokesman, Bob Bagwell, spoke to the Board about an upcoming increase in the interest rate on a bond issue. This is $5M bond issued in 2014 with a 5 percent interest rate.
Bagwell stated that if the bond is paid off it will result in a $200K savings in 2020. He also presented some alternatives to the Board; renegotiate for a lower interest rate or pay off the bond. No action was taken on the matter at this time.
The Board heard from the county engineer concerning bridge replacements under the LSBP (Local System Bridge Program). He proposed applying for funds first for the Fentress Panhandle Road and later for Pisgah Road and Huntsville Road.
Chancery Clerk Steve Montgomery reported that the cost of workman’s compensation insurance will decrease by $18K for FY 2019.
In other action, the Board:
• Voted 5-0 to approve the emergency hire of Quenton Carter, by Sheriff Cloyd Halford, as a dispatcher/jailer.
The Choctaw County Board of Supervisors meet on the first and third Monday of each month at 9 a.m.
