Two local business representatives said they were removed from the sheriff’s office towing rotation list without being given a reason during the Whitley County Fiscal Court meeting on June 16.
Quality Care Towing representative Jim Foley informed board members the company had been removed from Sheriff Bill Elliotte’s calling list post-election.
“My purpose was to address the sheriff and ask for a reason,” said Foley. “We’ve never been given a reason. We were told secondhandly through dispatch.”
Bo’s Tows representative Marty Gilley also addressed the board with similar concerns, saying his business had been on the list for years and had never heard of any complaints or concerns.
“Sheriff wins the election, takes me and Jim Foley off the list with no reason,” said Gilley.
He then asked the board if they can do anything to help.
Judge-Executive Pat White, Jr. said he had spoken with the attorney and “looked into it thoroughly.”
“The sheriff is not an employee of this council,” said White. “The sheriff is a separate constitutional officer.”
White said he can approve policies but does not have authority to tell the sheriff how to run his office.
“The policy that I’ve read is a pretty adequate policy,” said White.
White’s advice to Gilley was to have a conversation with the sheriff.
County Attorney Bob Hammons told the speakers while he understood their concerns, the fiscal court was not the appropriate venue to complain.
“I’m just telling you that you’re complaining at the wrong venue,” said Hammons. “This is not the place that can address that issue.”
