The Butler County Commission is hoping a bill to eliminate supernumerary programs in the county will be on the general election ballot in November.

The bill, local legislation sponsored by Rep. Charles Newton and supported by the commission, would effectively phase out supernumerary status for elected positions inside the county. With the supernumerary program in place, the county must pay 100 percent of the sheriff's, and a portion of the tax collector's and tax assessor's, retirement from the county's general fund.

Chairman Jesse McWilliams said the supernumerary status of those currently elected would not be affected by the constitutional amendment. In the future, the tax assessor, tax collector and sheriff would be allowed to participate in the state employees retirement system.

&#8220I'm pleased to adopt this resolution to eliminate the supernumerary position,” said Comm. Frank Hickman. &#8220I think this is a fiscally responsible move by this commission.”

Barring some major filibustering, Newton feels the bill has a good chance of passing this session.

&#8220I think there's a chance it will,” he said. &#8220But if one or two people get unhappy, you never know. But it's usually over legitimate stuff and bills that are important to them. Hopefully, we can get it through.”

Currently, said McWilliams, 50 counties in Alabama have phased out supernumerary programs.

&#8220It's very important we get a message out to the public when this gets on the ballot,” said McWilliams.

In other business, the commission:

n Approved a motion to allow the Forest Home Volunteer Fire Department to proceed with its grant application for a new firehouse.

The county will provide in-kind work to demolish the current structure and clear the land at an estimated value of $13,000.

n Approved a request for financing from the road department for two tractors. Total financed amount is $63,592 at 3.9 percent for four years.

n Approved a request by the road department for the purchase of a 2001 Roscoe RA-300 pothole patcher from Tallapoosa County. Total cost is $50,000.

The next commission workshop has been re-scheduled for Tuesday, May 2 at 6 p.m.