LAWRENCE CO. — The Lawrence County Council has approved the 2025 government budget, which includes significant cuts from the requests submitted by various county offices. While budget cuts are typically expected during this process, one particular cut has ignited controversy among county employees.
During a budget hearing on September 17, a proposal to eliminate the Administrative Director was introduced. This proposal surprised many council members, leading to calls for clarification. The council was informed that the cut was necessary for “budgetary reasons.” However, some employees believe the decision was personal and not in the county’s or its workforce’s best interest.
Councilman Rick Butterfield moved to approve the cuts, seconded by Councilwoman Julie Chase. Councilwoman Julie Hewetson joined Butterfield and Chase in the approval, while Councilman Phil Inman, Councilwoman Janie Chenault, and Councilwoman Amy Redman opposed. In a 3-3 tie, the Council President votes to break the tie, and in this case, Councilman Jeff Lytton voted in favor of the proposed cut, and the motion passed 4-3.
The Lawrence County Commissioners, who appointed the Administrative Director, were unaware of this proposed cut and were caught off guard by the council’s decision. Current Administrative Director Travis Sanders was also not informed that his position was threatened.
As news of the cut spread, employees expressed shock and confusion over eliminating a role that advocates for their interests and oversees critical administrative functions. In solidarity, many employees attended the next council meeting on September 19, filling the room to voice their support for Sanders and the position.
During that meeting, Commissioner Rodney Fish passionately advocated for retaining the Administrative Director position, referencing the Indiana Code in his advocacy. Commissioner President Wally Branham also emphasized the role’s significance and suggested alternative cuts to preserve it. Despite these appeals, the council took no action to reinstate the position.
Lawrence County Assessor April Collins highlighted Sanders’ work: “The current Administrative Director, Travis Sanders, does an exceptional job, and employees feel safer knowing he is in the building.” She expressed concern that another full-time employee could not adequately absorb the duties of the Administrative Director.
Lawrence County Auditor Paula Stewart added that separating human resources from the Auditor’s Office is crucial for effective operations, reinforcing the need for the Administrative Director position. Yet, the council did not take action to address these concerns.
Councilwoman Julie Hewetson defended her decision-making process, asserting that it was not personal but aimed at the best interests of Lawrence County citizens.
In a conversation following the council’s decision, Sanders expressed disappointment in how the matter was handled, stating, “This was not a budget decision; it seems someone got their feelings hurt and decided to take it out on me and the Commissioners. This is a huge loss for the employees.”
On October 22, Commissioner Fish attempted to propose funding for the Administrative Director position in a last-ditch effort. Still, the proposal met with silence and did not advance to a vote due to a lack of motion.
It remains unclear to employees who will handle the duties of the administrative director in the future.
