Legislature begins process to replace administrator

YATES COUNTY--At the Yates County legislature meeting, Monday, Dec. 12, a resolution was passed to authorize the legislature to create and fill a full-time county administrator position.
The resolution states that the current county administrator, Nonie Flynn, will be retiring May 30, 2023, and "the legislature has identified the need to create and fill a full-time county administrator position to allow for succession planning that shall result in a seamless transition for personnel and to ensure the needs of the county and public are met."
The estimated annual cost to fill the position shall not exceed $170,216, depending on health insurance. This includes a salary of $113,292 and fringe benefits of up to $56,924.
Legislators also heard several updates, including news about the communications tower in Dundee. According to the report, the power lines have been installed along Andrews Hill Road and Bill Bailey Road. The wires are up on the pole but are not connected to the grid yet. In addition, the concrete has been poured for the reinforcement of the Bluff Point foundation tower.
Yates County Administrator Nonie Flynn directed people to the Yates County website to find information on the Natural and Recreational Resources grant. The application can be found online and is due by Jan. 24, 2023, with award announcements expected in mid-March. According to the application, the grant is "intended for projects and/or programs that promote, preserve, enhance or otherwise expand upon the county's natural and recreational resources."
Legislators approved several resolutions, including authorization to award a $1.6 million bid for a new fuel facility at the Yates County Highway Department. The county received only one viable bid for the project that came with a price tag higher than expected. Those opposing the resolution indicated that while the project is important, the timing is difficult given the current state of the economy and the cost is higher than expected. The motion carried with three legislators opposing: Richard Willson, Carlie Chilson, and Mark Morris.