County budget passed

Lawrence County EMS Director Buddy Fry was recognized by U.S. Rep. Bill Johnson, R-Ohio, at the county commission meeting Thursday through a letter read by Juli Stephens, from his Ironton office.

“On behalf of the people of Ohio’s Sixth Congressional District, I am honored to recognize Buddy Fry on the occasion of his retirement as Lawrence County EMS Director. Emergency medical service personnel are at the front-line of emergency care, and Buddy is no exception; his distinguished career in the EMS field began in 1973. In 2010, when Southeast Ohio EMS announced it would cease to operate, Buddy stepped up to provide countywide emergency services. As Lawrence County EMS Director, Buddy has worked tirelessly with his staff to make sure that county residents get the care they deserve,” the letter stated. “Outside of work, Buddy is known for playing an active role in the community. He is heavily involved with Habitat for Humanity, and previously served as director of the National Wild Turkey Federation. Thus, with great pride, I congratulate Buddy Fry on the occasion of his retirement as Lawrence County EMS Director, thank him for his 45 years of service, and send best wishes as he enjoys his well-earned retirement.”

The three commissioners and several officeholders and department heads in the county also had kind words for Fry on his retirement, as this was the final commission meeting of the year.

Fry said he was very appreciative of everyone’s congratulations, but also gave his congratulations to his wife, Mickee Fry, who is also retiring this year after serving with the county 911 and later as an investigator with the county coroner’s office.

Following the meeting, a small celebration for Fry took place outside of the commission chambers on the third floor of the courthouse.

Fry’s last official day on the job is Saturday, Dec. 16.

In other action, the commission:

• Approved the renewal of two floodplain permits.

• Approved two appropriations.

• Approved 32 transfer funds.

• Approved a resolution authorizing the county engineer to proceed by Force Account for the normal maintenance and repair of county roads.

• Approved and signed the authorizing legislation for the Landslide Repair Project on County Road 1, to the Alan Stone Company, and to enter into contracts after funds after funds are encumbered.

• Accepted and approved the 2017 year end transfers and appropriations as provided by the county auditor, as well as the final appropriations for the year as presented by the county auditor.

• Approved to pass the 2018 county general fund budget.