Jeffco Commission blames Jeffco delegation for lack of financial - WSFA.com: News Weather and Sports for Montgomery, AL.

Jefferson County Commissioners on Thursday expressed their disappointment with the Jefferson County delegation at a committee meeting.

After the distressed counties bill was pulled from the legislative calendar on Wednesday, commissioners were left with little options but to prepare for massive cuts. The bill would have allowed the county to pass a new occupational tax if it had passed.

County Manager Tony Petelos said during the meeting that Representatives Jim Carns, John Rogers and Mary Moore were responsible for inaction on the bill. Commission President David Carrington stated during the meeting that he felt the whole delegation was to blame. He added that the elected officials wanted to be re-elected over making a tough decision.

The commissioners say they have no choice but to make tough changes to fill in the $40 million hole in their budgets. A plan is underway to close down the county courthouses every Wednesday. Carrington says they do not want to have to close down and they are not ready to move on it, yet. Also, $15 million will have to be moved out of the general obligation bond debt to the general fund. This will last for the rest of the fiscal year. A meeting with Sheriff Mike Hale is scheduled for 3 p.m. to discuss the sheriff's budget.

Cooper Green Mercy Hospital once again returned to the spotlight in terms of cuts. Commissioner Jimmie Stephens called for a phase down of patients at Cooper Green and for ending some of the hospital's contracts. Commissioner George Bowman came to the hospital's defense, stating that Cooper Green "can't be run like a shoe store." Commissioner Joe Knight responded to that by claiming that Cooper Green was the "largest drain on the county."

Commissioner Carrington suggested that Cooper Green did not need inpatient services to provide indigent care. A vote on the motion to eliminate inpatient care within 90 days failed with only Carrington and Stephens voting for the measure.

Critical needs and contracts will be pulled, according to Petelos. A ban on employees taking home county vehicle will also be put in place, even for first responders.

A special session of the Legislature is underway on Thursday, but there is nothing addressing Jefferson County's financial needs because the delegation remains split on the issue.

County Attorney Kenneth Klee says the lack of action by the Legislature could make Jefferson County remain in bankruptcy for another year.

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