COLUMBIA COUNTY—The Columbia County Commissioners met for a regular workshop meeting on Tuesday, January 25.

The commissioners started the meeting with a ten-minute executive session, during which direction was taken, but no action was taken.

Public Works Director Charles Eaton took the floor, speaking about appointing an acting director, effective February 1, following his resignation. After discussing the position with Eaton, the commissioners appointed Amber Phinney as the acting director. Phinney, who is currently the department’s business manager, will be receiving appropriate compensation as she takes on the responsibilities of acting director.

The commissioners and Eaton discussed the 2022 Equipment Rental Rates. Eaton said that most Columbia County departments saw minor decreases in rental rates, but Solid Waste and Courthouse Maintenance saw slight increases. The commissioners approved the rates.

Two other items, Appointment of Acting County Engineer and Delegating Acting County Engineer Authority, were withdrawn, following direction received during the executive session.

Eaton’s last day in the Columbia County Public Works office will be Friday, January 28.

“We appreciate the job you’ve done,” Commissioner Amerein said. “You’ve overseen a lot of changes.”