State of the County - September 2014

Submitted by Presiding Commissioner Marilyn Ruestman


The citizens of Newton County elect three commissioners for a four year term.  A Presiding Commissioner is elected during the “off” presidential election year. Two Associate Commissioners who are elected during the presidential election year.

The Presiding Commissioner is elected at large by vote throughout the County.  The District I Commissioner represents the North portion of the County.  The District II Commissioner represents the South portion of the County.  This split of the County is irregular and is based on population.

Major duties of your Commissioners are:

·      To determine that the County maintains a balanced budget each year.
·      Accept and publish audits and financial information.
·      To oversee bridge construction and the County Common Road District as well as expenditures of the seven Special Road Districts.
·      To constantly update the employee policy manual to assure that the County is in compliance with mandates, statutes and laws and can meet governmental requirements.
·      To complete and advertise all bid requirements.
·      To review and sign all contracts on behalf of the County.
·      Set the County Agenda.
·      Conduct a business meeting each Wednesday and submit public notifications.
·      Meet with the County Engineer and Road Superintendent weekly.
·      Maintain County buildings and grounds.

Commissioners are available in the Courthouse Monday through Thursday, 8:00 to 4:00.

Collectively, Commissioners represent Newton County monthly at over 20 committee and board meetings.  In addition, they perform weekly road inspections throughout the County.  (Many are completed on personal time or on Friday.) 

Stay tuned in October for information regarding your elected Commissioners:
Marilyn Ruestman, Presiding
Alan Cook, Associate District I
Jim Jackson, Associate District II