Keith County approves Paxton police contract; deputy to live in village and county will assist on ordinance updates
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Summary
The Board approved a contract to provide Paxton police services, including a county deputy assigned to live in Paxton; commissioners and county law enforcement said the county will work with Paxton on updating ordinances and signage enforcement.
Keith County commissioners voted unanimously to approve a Paxton Police Service Agreement that formalizes county law enforcement support for the village of Paxton.
The contract requires a county deputy to reside in Paxton while assigned there; Sheriff Sean told the board that Deputy Mosher Austin has lived in Paxton since joining the department and has been a dedicated Paxton deputy. The sheriff said county staff is also assisting Paxton officials by reviewing and advising on village ordinances and signage that must be corrected before the county can enforce certain regulations.
Commissioner Wortman moved to approve the Paxton Police Service Agreement and Schroeder seconded. A roll call vote followed; commissioners Anderson, Wortman, Schroeder, Irvin, Ortman and Crandall all voted "yes." The agreement passed.
Sheriff Sean said some Paxton enforcement and signage issues will take time to resolve and indicated the county will work with village officials on a likely yearlong process to update ordinances and correct signage.
Commissioners said improved communication with Paxton after recent village meetings had helped with expectations and that the formal agreement will clarify responsibilities going forward.