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Bay County Update
10/20/09 - 04:15 PM
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Elizabeth Cate - bio
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click for larger image Bay County, Fla:

Maps, Money, and Machines. Today, the Bay County Commission held a meeting to discuss those issues and more.

Preservation Area May Lose Acreage

The county commission voted to re-zone a portion of private land in West Bay. This marks the first step to change the land use from preserved to developed.

The parts of private land that are deemed wetlands or are border-line wetlands will remain preserved. But, the county feels it’s important to give the owners a choice of how to use the land.

“We should protect the environment, protect the environment that’s endangered, and let people use what’s not,” said Commissioner Mike Thomas.

Sheriff McKeithen Saves Money

The Sheriff showed how he spent the county’s money at the jail. Last year he requested about $16.7 million dollars. Today, he shared with the commission that he came in $2 million under budget.

The sheriff says he’s cut medical bills, personnel and unnecessary expenditures to make ends meet. Regardless of tough economic times, he feels the jail is in top shape.

“Jails aren’t good places, no matter what you do, but I think we have the best run facility in the state of Florida,” said Bay County Sheriff Frank McKeithen.

Motor Graders Keep Roads in Shape

The county approved the purchase of two brand new motor graders. The machines cost nearly $400,000 total. Motor graders clear dirt roads, help fix old roads and make sure roads are passable during a storm.

“Having a good grader to do a good job is very important,” said Bay County Commissioner Bill Dozier.

This purchase is part of a 3 year cycle to keep new graders in rotation.

Tax Exemption Update

The county approved the annual ad valorem tax exemption at the meeting. The commission along with the Economic Development Alliance believes this tax break, creates a competitive draw for Bay County. The exemption affects 12 businesses.

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