Vehicle purchase criticized
♦ Countycommissioners vote 3-2 to buy a new vehicle for the EDA director amid criticism from residents. Commissioners also spell out rules to address the board.
Catoosa County officials have approved the purchase of a new SUV for Economic Development Authority Director Keith Barclift, and did so despite public criticism from one of the county’s most vocal residents.
During the Board of Commissioner’s meeting on Oct. 15, resident George Battersby spoke out about the pending purchase during the public appearances portion of the night’s agenda before the proposal was approved.
“Mr. Barclift was hired under a dark cloud through an arrangement with Sen. Jeff Mullis and you all, and not through the usual channels. His job was never posted on the website,” Battersby said.
As was pointed out by multiple residents at the time of his hire in April, Barclift was hired in at almost double the salary of his predecessor, a point that Battersby took the time to reiterate.
“He (Barclift) got a $25,000 plus expenses raise, and now you want him to have a $30,000 Ford Explorer without proving himself in his job,” Battersby said. “Usually you have to prove yourself before you get something.”
While Battersby continued to voice his concerns, Chairman Steven Henry struck his gavel and interrupted what he deemed to be undue criticism.
“All automobiles don’t cost $30,000,” Battersby said. “Why he has to have one with a four-wheel drive ...
“One thing,” Henry interrupted. “We want to not pick on our staff. You can pick on us, but they are hired positions and you’re not going to call them out.”
Battersby has been a permanent fixture at meetings over the past couple of years, and has never been shy about voicing his displeasure with certain purchases and decision-making, which seemed to contribute to Henry’s interruption.