One item of unfinished business is on the Marion County Quorum Court’s agenda when it meets in regular session Tuesday evening–a recent legislative audit.The quorum court met in special session June 25 for the sole purpose of the audit, noting three items in the office of former County Judge Terry Ott were found to be in noncompliance with state law and accepted accounting practices, as well as one area in the office of County Librarian Dana Scott.The quorum court’s focus is on the audit finding regarding restricted road funds over three years totaling just under $30,000 being used to pay legal expenses for Ott related to an ethics commission hearing and an appeal in circuit court.
With regard to the county library, the audit notes $100,000 of “public funds” were paid to a nonprofit organization to establish a charitable fund for the benefit of the library.
The library board and County Librarian Scott have been directed to begin submitting monthly financial reports to the court for review, following the practice of other county entities.
With regard to the court’s focus, prior to the special meeting in late June, 14th Judicial District Prosecutor David Ethredge told KTLO, Classic Hits and The Boot news the audit findings do not point to alleged criminal activity. Ethredge says he has reviewed the findings and advised county officials he will not pursue action regarding the findings.
He conveyed this information to the quorum court at the special meeting, leaving the justices with the option to consider civil action.
Marion County Judge John Massey says, “We just want our money back.”
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At the end of the meeting, the court by a vote of 7-2, with justices Brady Madden and Joyce McCalla absent, voted to explore any and all civil remedies regarding recouping county funds used by the prior administration in defense of the ethics violation.
The question the quorum court justices will no doubt face is what price are they willing to spend to recoup the funds.
Judge Massey says the court is weighing its options.
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In addition to the audit, the quorum court is looking at 15 other items of business. The meeting is set for 6 p.m. in the Marion County Courthouse.
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