The Oneida Deputies organization met last week for a regular meeting of members.  The Deputies were originally organized to support local enforcement, specifically the Sheriff’s Office.  While that remains the primary mission of the group, meetings often feature guest speakers in addition to the sheriff who update members on issues of importance to the local community.  Sheriff Arne Jones updated the deputies on how the recent donation from the group had been used toward the purchase of new equipment for the department.  

A total of $6,000 was contributed toward the purchase of a LensLock system, which is used to provide officers with vehicle and body cameras.  The current camera systems used by the department are around 8 years old, which is well past the expected life of the equipment.  The LensLock system is under warranty, and will be updated as needed as part of the service contract, which should make upgrades easier in the future.  The Board of County Commissioners paid for the bulk of the system, but the Deputies contribution helped pay for the installation cost.  Sheriff Jones reported that the system will provide a significant improvement in response and safety to the officers and the public.  One outstanding feature of the system is that the sheriff or dispatcher will be able to watch real-time video of engagements in order to determine whether more officers are required.

Oneida School District #351 Superintendent then spoke to the Deputies about the ongoing litigation concerning the school bond.  Currently, the school is involved in a lawsuit against the state about the way that school funding was changed at the end of the last legislative session, which has impacted the Oneida school district exclusively.  The primary grounds on which the school district is basing the lawsuit is the fact that the legislative changed the funds available through a retroactive change to student population metrics. Jon Abrams was clear that the school district had legal advice during the bond election that its plan was in accordance with the laws in place at the time, and that the school’s plan for financing the school was perfectly above board.  The potential loss of funding due to the retroactive change in the ways funds are calculated is only an issue because of a situation that could not have been anticipated under the previous legislation, which is why the judge has not dismissed the lawsuit.  The state is contending that sovereign immunity prevents it from being sued by another state entity, which remains to be determined.

Abrams was also clear to insist that if a new bond is necessary to refinance the loan for the school, he will be the one to bring it before the public.  “I don’t ever want anyone to think that their superintendent tried to pull a fast one on them, and I’ll make sure I leave this district in a good position.”  Abrams had always planned to retire next year to serve a mission with his wife for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.    

Deputies were treated to a sneak peak of the new school building, which caused a lot of nostalgic reminiscence and excitement.

The Deputies are always interested in seeking new members.  For information about dues and membership, contact Rhonda Neal at [email protected].