Three new deputies in 2022-23, but are they enough?

In the next Oconee budget, the sheriff’s office appears in line for three new deputies.  But, in the minds of some Oconeeans in fear of crime, there are questions whether three are enough.  John Morrah of Mountain Rest last night implored the county fathers to consider a pay scale of $21 dollars an hour as a way to appreciably heighten the quality of officers who would be willing to serve.  In the packet of council priorities for 2022-23, the addition of three new deputies would cost $59,195 in salary and benefits.  Adding uniforms, safety gear, and vehicles, the estimated price tag would be $372,585.