County forgos gun exemption

By ADAM STEWART

News editor

Marion County let Friday’s deadline pass without applying for an exemption to a new state law that requires public buildings to allow concealed guns unless elaborate security is added.

Commission Chairman Randy Dallke moved to apply for the exemption to give the commission more time to consider the question. However, commissioner Dan Holub wouldn’t second the motion. Commissioner Roger Fleming was absent.

Holub questioned how the county would enforce a ban, even with an exemption.

The law allows concealed weapons to be forbidden only if there are manned checkpoints with metal detectors at every entrance and lockable storage for any weapons that must be turned in. The courthouse has four entrances.

Meanwhile, plans to install a bulletproof glass partition in the court clerk’s office will be delayed for at least a year.

Overall, Chief Judge Michael Powers requested $151,653 from the county to support the court’s 2014 budget, an increase of about $5,000. The increase includes re-carpeting the office and updating electronic recording software.

In other business Friday, commissioners heard that 31 property owners are about to lose a discount of more than 50 percent on flood insurance but could qualify for new discounts of 5 to 15 percent if the county participates in a federal rating system.

Lack of county building codes mean property likely won’t qualify for the maximum 45 percent discount.

Premiums in the county average $913 per year, including the discount that is ending.

Commissioners met in closed session four times with various department heads to discuss job performance of employees.