MORGAN -- At a time of budget crunches when all county departments are being asked to curb expenses, the Morgan County Council isn't playing the part of hypocrite.
Several council members have chosen not to ask for mileage reimbursement for job-related travel.
This year, the council's seven members share a $4,500 travel and training budget.
Council Chairwoman Tina Kelley said that in 2007, when she was least busy with portfolio assignments, she logged 1,720 miles and would have been eligible for approximately $1,000 in travel reimbursements had she asked for it. This year, Kelley anticipates travel to Bryce Canyon, St. George and Midway.
"There's trips I don't file for, because it's important for the county to have representation. I would like to see the council use money in a different manner (than mileage reimbursement), but that is left up to individual council members to make those decisions for themselves," Kelley said. "I will do what I can to save the county money."
Kelley said she is still encouraging council members to get needed training.
"My choice is not to turn in my miles," Councilman Ned Mecham said. "But I'm not trying to restrict anyone's travel and training."
Councilman Lyle Nelson said doing the work of the council requires members to log many miles, which should be turned in for reimbursement.
"It is a good endeavor, but the council has duties to perform. The council would not require a person who works in the road department to pay for fuel while doing their duties," Nelson said. "It is an individual thing."
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