The Osceola County Board of Supervisors convened on April 8, 2025, to address several pressing issues, including staffing challenges within the county attorney's office and courthouse access concerns.
The meeting began with discussions surrounding the county attorney position, which has remained unfilled. Board members expressed frustration over the lack of applicants, noting that neighboring counties have had more success in attracting candidates. Suggestions included hiring part-time attorneys or sharing resources with other counties, although concerns about residency requirements and potential conflicts of interest were raised. The board debated whether to advertise the position at a higher salary starting July 1, 2025, and discussed the possibility of offering moving expenses as an incentive for applicants.
Following the staffing discussions, the board turned its attention to courthouse security and access. The south entrance of the courthouse has been closed for security reasons for the past decade, and board members considered whether to reopen it, particularly on court days. While some members supported keeping the entrance locked for security, others suggested that reopening it could alleviate parking issues during busy court days. Ultimately, a motion was made and supported to keep the south entrance locked, reflecting a consensus on maintaining current security measures.
The meeting concluded with a recognition of the ongoing challenges faced by the county, particularly in attracting legal talent and managing courthouse logistics during construction. Board members expressed hope for future applications and discussed the importance of clear communication regarding parking and access as construction progresses.