The Christian County Board voted to combine the positions of Zoning Officer and Animal Control Warden as they advertise the open position. The vote came at Monday’s board meeting after they had accepted the retirements of Brett Rahar as Zoning Officer and Joelynda Conrad as Animal Control Warden.

Many were in attendance to speak on the measure, and resident Patty Rykhus says she was against the merger.

There were many reasons for supporting or opposing the measure, but county board chair Tim Carlson says it’s a decision that can be reversed if necessary.

The board voted 10-5 to approve the merger. They also approved two percent pay raises for the five elected officer holders, while district three board member Aaron Allen officially turned in his letter of resignation at Tuesday’s meeting. The board will reconvene on Tuesday, May 15 at 6:30 p.m. at the Christian County Courthouse.