Equalization board reappointed after false start

The Clay County Board of Commissioners re-approved a resolution to create and appoint a Board of Equalization after the process may have been carried out incorrectly in the fall.

The equalization ordinance was adopted in November and the board was appointed in December.

“The county attorney contacted me last month and was a little concerned,” County Manager Paul Leek said. “He said ‘you need to do that all at one time.’

The equalization board originally consisted of three county commissioners but Commissioner Harry Jarrett proposed appointing citizens who were more familiar with local land value.

The individuals serving on the board must have been residents of Clay County for a minimum of two years, at least 18 years old, and have a record of paying all taxes imposed by the county.

The three regular members and two alternates will serve a two year term with a compensation of $30 per hour.

“I want to be sure we do everything properly this time,” Leek said. “I’m going to go ahead and reappoint the members that we have already appointed so that their terms will start as of February 5, 2010.”

The commissioners approved Johnny Burch (chairman), Tina Mallamas (vice chair) and Tighe White on the board. Richard Kelley and Charlie Kohler were appointed as alternates.

The commissioners also approved a motion to advertise delinquent taxes the week of March 22 in both county newspapers.

Listen to the February 4, 2010 commissioners meeting