Residents Push For Alternative Way To Pay Delaware County Sex Settlement

JAY, Oklahoma -- Outraged property owners in Delaware County push for another way to pay a multimillion dollar sexual misconduct settlement.

County Commissioners agreed to a $13.5 million settlement of a lawsuit leveled against the Sheriff's Office by former female inmates. It means an estimated 18 percent increase in property taxes over three years to pay it.

People met Thursday to organize a petition drive to prompt a sales tax election to pay the hefty bill so not just property owners bear the burden.

"The property owners themselves should not just be responsible for this. If the whole county is held responsible for what our county offices do or settle, then it should be divided equally among all of the county residents, not just a select few," said Bobbi Pariss, Delaware County Resident.

Organizers say the county commissioners have told them they need 500 signatures for the county to call for a sales tax vote.

Delaware County Sheriff Jay Blackfox resigned last Friday following the county's settlement.

11/04/2011 Related Story: Delaware County Sheriff Resigns, Residents Left With $13 Million Settlement