MOHAVE COUNTY – Mohave County, like so many enterprises in the private sector, continues struggling to fill employment vacancies. County Manager Sam Elters told the Board of Supervisors Monday that vacancies across the county workforce now total 127 positions.
Two key personnel are working month to month after previously indicating desire and intent to move on. Library District Director Kathy Pennell tendered her retirement related resignation last spring but has stayed the course while the county continues seeking her successor.
Dr. Archiaus Mosely did not want to extend his contract as Mohave County Medical Examiner when it expired in June, yet he too remains on the job given lack of a replacement. Elters told supervisors that medical examiners in Yavapai and Coconino Counties may lend Mohave County a helping hand while the staff continue to explore options to bring to the board in a couple of months, if not sooner.
Board members approved District 4 Supervisor Jean Bishop’s outline for spending a little more than $4 million of America Rescue Plan Act Covid-19 relief funds. About $41.5 million was earmarked for the county and the Board previously decided to divide the money five ways, allowing supervisors to take the lead in proposing spending within their districts.
Bishop wants to use up to $2 million to assist some county residents living just north of the Kingman city limits to convert from septic and connect to the city wastewater system. Bishop intends to use another $750,000 to develop a third well to increase capacity and ensure sufficient supply for Golden Valley Improvement District water customers.
Bishop intends to spend roughly $1.3 million to purchase, equip, and staff a mobile health unit to provide preventative screenings, education, and referral services to rural communities. She expressed hope that other supervisors might allocate a portion of their funds in the same manner to bolster the rural health awareness and service campaign she intends for her district.
Chairman Buster Johnson, District 5 Supervisor Ron Gould and District 1 Supervisor Travis Lingenfelter have not yet requested board approval for allocations within their districts. District 2 Supervisor Hildy Angius drew board support last month for spending up to $1 million for residential substance abuse treatment in Bullhead City.
Dave Hawkins
