East Central Reporter

Just before the February 6, 2025, Shelby County Public Safety Committee meeting, a committee member questioned whether Austin Pritchard was part of the committee. The chairman clarified that Pritchard was not on this committee. Another board member expressed concern about a potential conflict with the dive team if he were on the public safety committee, and the chairman nodded in agreement.

The situation raises questions about why there is no similar concern regarding a conflict between Pritchard's roles on the dive team and his position on the Budget, Audit, and Legislative Committee or as a county board member and department head simultaneously. "We know the answer," an inquiry stated, "and hopefully the Attorney General will render the appropriate opinion on this sooner rather than later."

Pritchard has participated in voting on equipment purchases for the dive team and voted on a tax levy that included funds for it. He also presented and advocated for equipment purchases at a committee meeting.

In his dual role as both a county board member and department head, Pritchard presents and manages the dive team budget within the Budget, Audit, and Legislative Committee. He also reviews forensic audits related to the dive team. These audits have yet to be discussed publicly at county board meetings.

Critics who previously raised concerns about county audits seem less interested when it comes to those involving the dive team.

Time will reveal more about these unfolding issues.