Commission news

By Times staff writer

© St. Petersburg Times, published May 24, 2000

BROOKSVILLE -- The Hernando County Commission is taking a tough stand on its share of the District 5 Medical Examiner's Office. Commissioners refused to pay a flat fee for administrative services provided by Lake County, instead requesting a detailed cost list to analyze first. Then, commissioners said, they gladly would pay their share along with Citrus, Sumter, Marion and Lake counties. They also insisted that they would pay only for services rendered, adding that the costs must be clearly explained and justified. In past years, Hernando officials tried unsuccessfully to get explanations for the medical examiner's charges and spending. Last year, Hernando's share of the budget was $161,379. "We definitely are getting more involved," Commissioner Chris Kingsley said.

The growing Hernando County Airport soon will get a deputy director to oversee operations, maintenance and construction. County commissioners approved the new post Tuesday with a salary range of $38,319 to $63,865. They did so after exacting promises from Assistant County Administrator Larry Jennings that the airport would cut back on its requests for similar services from other county departments. "I want to be sure there is no duplication of services here and this is not just another person put on the payroll who will stay there forever," Commissioner Bobbi Mills said. Airport Manager Robert Mattingly now has only one staff member.

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