The Madison County Commission met on Wednesday, Feb. 10 at 9 a.m. at the Courthouse Annex. After the minutes were approved, Resolution 2016-02-10 was added to the agenda. Clerk of Court Tim Sanders read off the resolution stating that North State Road 53 will be renamed Joe Peavy Hwy in honor of Joe Peavy, who has served as sheriff of Madison County for 28 years.
Jamie Willoughby took to the podium next to inform the commissioners about the update on the county's mosquito control plan, as the recent outbreak of Zika virus in the state of Florida has recently caused a stir. By surveying the area for mosquitos, reducing water sources, putting forth aggressive adulticiding and keeping the public aware, Willoughby assured the commissioners that there will be steps taken to reduce the risk of anyone in Madison County from coming into contact with the virus. Willoughby added that there needs to be good communication with the Health Department and Emergency Management in the event that someone contracts the virus or wants to get tested. The board of commissioners approved of this plan.
Next, the commissioners mentioned that County Coordinator Allen Cherry is going to be retiring in July. They agreed to advertise the position for 30 days and select individuals for the interviewing process after all of the applications are received.
To conclude the meeting, the letter of support for Governor Scott's budget recommendations of $50 million in recurring funds for springs protection and restoration projects and an additional $50 million grant program to improve Florida's drinking water supply was approved.
The next county commission meeting will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 24 at 6 p.m. at the Courthouse Annex.