No replacement has been named for resigning Wayne County Circuit Clerk Georgiana Fletcher, County Board Chairman Daryl Hargrave announced at last Thursday’s Wayne County Board meeting. The Wayne County Republican Party has yet to put forward a candidate for the post.
The board entered a 30-minute closed session early in the meeting to discuss personnel matters, including the clerk’s office.
In regular business, the board approved the 10th phase of courthouse HVAC upgrades, awarding a $29,500 contract to Hayes Plumbing and Heating. The project, which includes gas line installation for office heaters, is expected to be completed by May. One board member, Steve Troyer, abstained from the vote. Officials estimate another $150,000 in HVAC work may be needed in the future. The board also approved a $40,000 loan to Blessed Blooms of Fairfield to help fund a business expansion. Treasurer Gene Kollak abstained due to a family connection to the recipient, but the motion passed unanimously.
Wayne County’s one percent grocery tax will remain in place after a unanimous board vote. The tax generates about $1.2 million annually for the county. Board members said losing the revenue would be difficult to replace. Statewide, 656 towns have opted to keep the tax. The average impact in Wayne County is estimated at $75 per resident per year. Legislation to repeal the tax statewide takes effect Jan. 1, 2026, unless local governments opt in.
A Fairfield resident spoke to the board about concerns over a dog’s welfare and criticized Humane Society workers for unprofessional behavior on social media. Board members pledged to address the matter with the organization. The Animal Control Committee also discussed new county contracts and reminded residents to call 911 for animal control emergencies.
Other actions included approval of $114,950 from the Motor Fuel Tax Fund for County Engineer Dennis Seidel’s salary and a reminder from County Clerk LizAnn Woodrow that early voting for the March 17 election begins February 5th. The deadline to file for ballot placement is January 8th with several local offices up for election.