For the first time since the Belmont County Sheriff's Office ran out of money, representatives for the deputies spoke about layoffs, pay cuts, and the sheriff's office's apparent rift with the county commission.

Representatives from the Fraternal Order of Police Ohio Council said the sheriff offered to make concessions in order to minimize layoffs, but commissioners maintain they received no help from the sheriff.

Deputies said they will continue to work with the county but said there has been no help from the commission. Commissioners contend the whole situation could have been avoided, and warned more deputies could be laid off due to a struggling payroll.

Earlier Wednesday, Chuck Wilson, representing the deputies, spoke for the first time since concession and layoff talks started.

Wilson said the department’s main concern right now is maintaining safety and continuing talks with the county regarding different options they have come up with.

He also contended the cuts at the sheriff's office were not at the same level as other departments in the county.

Commissioners said the sheriff's budget was cut more because of overspending last year, and that punishing other departments would be unfair.

The county commission was scheduled to meet with Sheriff Fred Thompson at 1:30 p.m., and public comments were expected to be heard after that.

Stay with NEWS9 and WTOV9.com for continuing coverage.