By Sara StrongRock County is in the process of hiring two new part-time deputies to cover open shifts until the county and city decide whether to hire a full-timer to replace retiring Kurt Kester.Sheriff Mike Winkels said both new hires are experienced, but they need some tests and equipment before starting.The cost of starting them both will be between $3,000 and $5,000.The County Board of Commissioners said Tuesday that paying for two part-time employees would be less expensive than paying the current deputies overtime wages. Also, with summer vacations factored in, it would be physically difficult to provide 24-hour coverage.Board Chair Ron Boyenga said that the final state budget and county budget will help determine whether the county will support hiring another full-time deputy to replace Kester.Sheriff Mike Winkels said he supports naming one sergeant instead of the two that were in place before he was elected sheriff. Kester, a sergeant, is retiring May 30.Recorder positionThe Board accepted legislation from the state, allowing Rock County to appoint, rather than elect the County Recorder. Current Recorder Jere Ohme would remain in the job until the end of his term and the actual job duties wouldn’t change. The county accepting the legislation is just the first step in process. The county has to advertise a public hearing before it will vote on changing the position to appointed.That vote has to pass with a minimum of four of the five commissioners in favor of the change.Ohme said he supports the legislation.
