The Chester County Commission met Monday night for the sole purpose of adjourning its meeting that was held on July 31 where they approved the 2023-2024 budget without a property tax increase.
They recessed the July 31 meeting instead of adjourning it in case there were any adjustments that needed to be made to the budget to get it approved before the August 31 deadline.
Commissioner Bubba Edgin made a motion to take a portion of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and allocate them to paying for two years of ambulance service expenses. Commissioner Carolyn Higgins seconded the motion.
Commission chairman Barry Smith explained that the budget had already been approved and all the unallocated ARPA funds were placed in the county’s fund balance. He also stated that any changes or adjustments could be addressed at the next meeting which is scheduled for Sept. 18.
A member of the audience, Debra Shipp, complained and said that Smith was not following parliamentary procedure by not calling for a vote on Edgin’s motion. “Point of order Mr. Chairman,” Shipp said. “You have a motion on the floor and has a first and a second. You did not vote on the motion.” Smith said that if the chair does not recognize the motion and ask for a second, there is no motion. Shipp accused Smith of violating Robert’s Rules of Order. Smith continued the meeting without taking any action on Edgin’s motion.
The board then voted to adjourn the meeting. Commissioners Andrea Holland and Huggins voted against the adjournment.
