Sheriff’s department hires new finance officer

Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Allen Branum introduced the department’s new finance officer to the County Commission today.

Peggy Faircloth, a graduate of Columbus State University in Columbus, Ga., started in the position Monday, she said.

The department had been operating without a finance officer for several weeks.

Chief Branum said the department budget is currently in good shape, but that having a finance officer on staff will help the department finalize its budget proposal before budget hearings begin in May.

Chief Branum has been in charge of the sheriff’s department since former Sheriff Billy Long resigned Feb. 6.

For full coverage, see tomorrow’s Chattanooga Times Free Press.