Committee backs 1-year contract

By Robert Sorrell

The Carter County Health and Welfare Committee backed a one-year exclusive franchise contract with the Carter County Rescue Squad Monday night.

Committee members voted 5-3 to approve the proposed resolution, which must receive final approval from the county commission.

The full commission meets Nov. 19.

Commissioners Ronnie Trivett, Robert Gobble and Ken Arney voted “no” on the motion, which was made by Scott Sams and seconded by Jo Ann Blankenship.

Richard Norris, the squad’s legal counsel, had asked for a four-year contract in order to work with the banks on the non-profit corporation’s finances. Norris said that after four years, the squad could possibly come to the county and request no money.