Converting from wideband radio frequency to narrowband will be required of all emergency agencies operating within the county and city by Jan. 1, 2013. Fire Chief Dwayne Herrington delivered the news to the Jenkins County Commissioners during the group’s Feb. 2 meeting.

Chief Herrington noted that equipment and supplies would have to be purchased to accomplish the task. The estimated cost for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) conversion was $22,000.

Chairman James Henry recommended formation of a committee to study the federal requirements and coordinate all departments. Committee members suggested were Chief Herrington, EMS Director Henry Young, County Field Director Grady Lane and Jenkins County Sheriff Robert Oglesby.

Chief Herrington and Director Young were instructed to gather information and explore the possibility of grant funding.

Chief Herrington also discussed the possibility of writing a grant for new turn-out gear for the fire department. Should the grant be secured, the county and city would have to provide 2½ percent matching funds.

In other business, the commissioners examined applications for the position of Jenkins County Tax Appraiser. It was agreed that the candidate appointed as tax appraiser would be named as the third tax assessor on the Jenkins County Board of Tax Assessors. Six applicants were selected for interviews.

Commissioner Tommy Lane informed the group that he had been contacted by a user of the county transit service who requested to pay the same fee as another rider. After some discussion it was discovered that the two clients were using the van service under different programs. The commissioners agreed that the van charges should remain as stated.

An incident in which a patient using the Jenkins County Ambulance Service was given a reduced rate was discussed with the commissioners agreeing to gather additional information and revisit the issue at a later date.