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GATESVILLE – Emotions ran a bit high here April 16 at the Gates County Board of Commissioners meeting.

During a request to approve a $349,000 budget amendment for public utilities, Commissioner Dave Forsythe voiced his concern over the fact that the documentation for the budget amendment was emailed on the morning of April 16 and that he had not had enough time to study the issue.

“We’re totally being bum rushed here,” Forsythe said. “This is frustrating to me to see this. I would sure hope this board would not consider something like this without thoroughly vetting this issue during a work session where we can take time to go into the details. Voting on this now with just a few hours [to study it] seems unnecessary and the irresponsible thing for us to do.”

Emily Truman, chair of the board, said protocol was followed in this budget amendment as it was brought before the commissioners, a vote was taken to approve it being placed on the agenda, and time was spent discussing, asking questions and gaining clarification about the issue at hand.

Commissioner Jonathan Craddock asked Public Works Director Brad Arnold if the equipment was needed for the water department. Arnold answered yes, adding that a new pump on well #1, which was part of the budget amendment, will increase its capacity from 320 gallons to 520 gallons per minute.

“Do we need this equipment to service our citizens and our paying customers,” Craddock asked.

“Yes,” Arnold replied.

With that, Craddock motioned to approve the budget amendment. Commissioner Brian Rountree offered a second.

Before the vote could be taken, Forsythe stated, “I hope the voters remember this come the next election, the wastefulness……”

He did not complete the sentence, cut off by Truman who said he was out of order. Her sentiment was echoed by Pitt Godwin, who serves as legal counsel for the board of commissioners.

Craddock’s motion passed by a 4-1 vote. Forsythe cast the lone “nay” vote.

The $349,000 includes $175,000 needed to close out the water meter replacement project, which was primarily paid with federal American Rescue Plan grant funding. The remainder will be used to purchase a new main computer for the water treatment plant – replacing one that is 30-year-old – and purchasing two new pumps, one that will increase capacity on well #1.